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TASK FORCE TO FACILITATE THE INTRODUCTION OF BIOSIMILAR MEDICINES NATIONALLY: THE CASES OF INFLIXIMAB AND ETANERCEPT

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European Statement

Selection, Procurement and Distribution

Author(s)

Karina Bentzen

Why was it done?

Introducing biosimilar medicines in the clinical setting may significantly reduce hospital medicines expenditure – but only if the biosimilar medicines are used. Lack of knowledge and insecurities about biosimilar medicines among healthcare professionals and patients must to be addressed to ensure implementation in the clinical setting.

What was done?

To facilitate the introduction of biosimilar medicines in Denmark, a special Taskforce was appointed. The aim was to enhance knowledge of biosimilar medicines among healthcare professionals and prepare implementation of biosimilar medicines in the clinical setting.

How was it done?

A special “Taskforce for introduction of biosimilars” was appointed. The Taskforce consisted of physicians including clinical pharmacologists, pharmacists, drug tender specialists and staff from the “Council for the Use of Expensive Hospital Drugs”, who issue national treatment guidelines.
Planning the introduction of biosimilar infliximab in Denmark started more than a year prior to the granting of marketing authorization. During this time, the Taskforce arranged seminars and facilitated meetings with specialists from the clinical setting to provide knowledge of biosimilars, to discuss the introduction of biosimilar medicines and how to switch patients. Based on these discussions the “Council for the Use of Expensive Hospital Drugs” dictated the use of biosimilar medicines nationally.
The Taskforce also created educational materials for doctors, nurses and patients and a “Q & A” website.

What has been achieved?

Biosimilars were adopted into the Danish market after a very quick introduction. The market share of the biosimilars was 95% within 3-4 months.

The price reduction after introducing biosimilar medicines was approx. 60%, and the quick implementation of the drugs in the clinical setting has significantly reduced medical costs.
Total annual savings in Denmark: 22 mio € (infliximab) and 15 mio €* (etanercept. * Estimate based on the first 6 months).

What next?

More new biosimilar medicines are expected to be introduced into the Danish market in the near future. The Taskforce will continue their work to ensure similar successful implementations.

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