What are biosimilars?

Apr 30, 2021 | Care, Research

Biosimilars are FDA-approved drugs that are “highly similar” to an existing biologic drug. A common biologic used to treat HER2-positive breast cancer is trastuzumab (Herceptin®). There are several biosimilars to trastuzumab available to treat early and metastatic HER2-positive breast cancers.  

A few facts about biosimilars:

  • Biosimilars are used to treat breast cancer and also for supportive care to manage side effects of cancer treatment.
  • As the science behind breast cancer treatments advance, biosimilars are creating more treatment options.
  • The FDA requires manufacturers to prove there are no “clinically meaningful” differences in the safety, purity and potency (strength) between their biosimilar and the original biologic drug.

To learn more, visit biosimilars.komen.org page.