An analysis of cost-saving in the German statutory health insurance system due to the introduction of epoetin alfa biosimilars in Germany.

ABSTRACT:

Aims

Epoetin alfa, an erythropoiesis-stimulating agent, is the mainstay for treating severe anemia caused by kidney disease or induced by cancer-chemotherapy. This study aims to investigate the potential for reducing drug costs through the utilization of epoetin alfa biosimilars within the German statutory health insurance system (SHI).

Methods

For the analysis, price and product data from ABDATA with sales volume data from IQVIA Pharmascope for the period from 2008 to 2023 were pooled. This enabled a comparison of cost savings due to the market introduction of epoetin alfa biosimilars from 2007 onwards.

Results

From 2008 to 2023, overall epoetin alfa unit volume has increased by a total of 23%. Compared to the other epoetin derivatives such as, epoetin beta, zeta and

SUBMITTER: Raitner I 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12748244 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature