Biosimilars Series: What Are Biosimilars?

Join us for the first episode of the GHAPP & RhAPP biosimilar podcast series! In this episode Gabriella McCarty, NP-C is joined by Jennifer Geremia, PA-C to break down the fundamentals of biosimilars in gastroenterology and rheumatology. As the adoption of biosimilars accelerates, it's crucial for advanced practice providers (APPs) to understand their role, safety, and impact on clinical practice.This discussion begins by defining biologic therapy and how these complex treatments, derived from living organisms, are designed to modulate the immune system in conditions like inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), rheumatoid arthritis (RA), and psoriatic arthritis (PsA). Jennifer explains the key differences between biologics and biosimilars, including why biosimilars are not identical to generics and how they maintain comparable safety, efficacy, and immunogenicity to their reference biologics.A major focus of this episode is the regulatory approval process, including how the Biologics Price Competition and Innovation Act (BPCIA) streamlined biosimilar development to enhance patient access and affordability. The conversation also explores the role of the FDA in biosimilar approval, the importance of real-world switch data, and how state laws and insurance policies influence biosimilar prescribing.One of the biggest patient concerns with biosimilars is the fear of disease flare-ups or new side effects when transitioning from a reference biologic. Jennifer shares practical communication strategies to reassure patients, address common misconceptions, and navigate payer-mandated switches. The discussion also highlights the economic benefits of biosimilars, emphasizing how they help reduce costs for both healthcare systems and patients while maintaining high treatment standards.Visit the RhAPP website or explore additional educational content on the RhAPP ACE App.Please take our evaluation regarding this podcast here: https://www.rhapp.org/bio-podcast-eval