The evolution of biosimilars in oncology, with a focus on trastuzumab.

ABSTRACT: Cancer therapy has evolved significantly with increased adoption of biologic agents ("biologics"). That evolution is especially true for her2 (human epidermal growth factor receptor-2)-positive breast cancer with the introduction of trastuzumab, a monoclonal antibody against the her2 receptor, which, in combination with chemotherapy, significantly improves survival in both metastatic and early disease. Although the efficacy of biologics is undeniable, their expense is a significant contributor to the increasing cost of cancer care. Across disease sites and indications, biosimilar agents are rapidly being developed with the goal of offering cost-effective alternatives to biologics. Biosimilars are pharmaceuticals whose molecular shape, efficacy, and safety are similar, but not identical, to

SUBMITTER: Nixon NA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6001768 | biostudies-literature | 2018 Jun

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature