Biosimilar Agents for Psoriasis Treatment: The Perspective of Portuguese Patients

Authors

  • Alexandra Azevedo Serviço de Dermatologia: Centro Hospitalar do Porto. Porto.
  • Andreia Bettencourt Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar. Universidade do Porto. Porto.
  • Manuela Selores Serviço de Dermatologia: Centro Hospitalar do Porto. Porto. Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar. Universidade do Porto. Porto.
  • Tiago Torres Serviço de Dermatologia: Centro Hospitalar do Porto. Porto. Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar. Universidade do Porto. Porto.

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.20344/amp.10127

Keywords:

Biological Therapy, Biosimilar Pharmaceuticals, Psoriasis/therapy

Abstract

Introduction: Biosimilars are highly similar copies of previously approved original biologic medicines. Their introduction on the market may yield cost reduction. The aim of this study was to evaluate the perspectives of psoriasis patients on biosimilar medications.
Materials and Methods: We conducted a 14 questions survey of psoriasis patients receiving biological therapy and followed-up in a dermatology department of a Portuguese tertiary care hospital.
Results: From a total of 108 patients included, 70.4% of patients did not know the definition of biosimilar agent and 76.6% of patients showed partial or total interest in using a biosimilar drug. Nearly 80% of patients partially or totally agreed in using a biosimilar drug in order to reduce healthcare costs with psoriasis treatment. However, the lack of studies in the European population and in psoriatic patients led most of the patients (72.2% and 75.0%, respectively) to somewhat or completely oppose to the use of biosimilars. Demographic variables, household income and type of current biologic therapy did not affect patient preferences.
Discussion: Despite of the unfamiliarity of the respondents with biosimilars, most patients seem receptive to their use. Nevertheless, there are two issues of concern: i) the use of biosimilars that are not tested in a European population, and ii) its approval for psoriasis without trials in this disease. Thus, an immediate need exists for patient education about biosimilars.
Conclusion: Biosimilars may increase patient access to biologic therapies. Improved communication and the involvement of patients in decision-making regarding biosimilars may increase their acceptance in future.

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Author Biography

Tiago Torres, Serviço de Dermatologia: Centro Hospitalar do Porto. Porto. Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar. Universidade do Porto. Porto.

Assistente Hospitalar no Serviço de Dermatologia do Centro Hospitalar e Universitário do Porto

Professor Auxiliar Convidado, Mestrado Integrado em Medicina do Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar da Universidade do Porto

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Published

2018-09-28

How to Cite

1.
Azevedo A, Bettencourt A, Selores M, Torres T. Biosimilar Agents for Psoriasis Treatment: The Perspective of Portuguese Patients. Acta Med Port [Internet]. 2018 Sep. 28 [cited 2024 Mar. 29];31(9):496-500. Available from: https://www.actamedicaportuguesa.com/revista/index.php/amp/article/view/10127

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Section

Original