How Much Are Biosimilars Used in Clinical Practice? A Retrospective Italian Population-Based Study of Erythropoiesis-Stimulating Agents in the Years 2009-2013.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

To explore the prescription patterns of erythropoiesis-stimulating agents (ESAs) in four large Italian geographic areas, where different health policy interventions to promote biosimilar use in routine care are undertaken.

Methods

A retrospective drug utilization study was conducted during the years 2009-2013. The data sources were the administrative databases of the Tuscany region and of the Caserta, Palermo, and Treviso Local Health Units (LHUs). The characteristics, prevalence, and switching patterns of different ESAs (biosimilars and reference products), stratified by indication for use, were calculated over time and across centers.

Results

Overall, 49,491 patients were treated with ESAs during the years 2009-2013 in the four centers. Of these, 41,286 pati

SUBMITTER: Ingrasciotta Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4561997 | biostudies-literature | 2015 Aug

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature