Publications by authors named "Jose Bravo Pimentao"
Biosimilars are new and more affordable similar versions of previously approved reference biological drugs. Following the approval of the first monoclonal antibody biosimilar in 2013, the Portuguese Society of Rheumatology issued a position paper on the use of biosimilars in rheumatic conditions covering efficacy, safety, extrapolation, interchangeability, substitution and pharmacovigilance. However, as this is a rapidly evolving field, it was felt that the knowledge and evidence gathered since then justified an update of these statements.
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- Biotechnological drugs are vital for treating rheumatic patients, and with patent expirations, biosimilars—cheaper versions of original drugs—are being developed, albeit without being exact replicas due to their complex nature.
- The Portuguese Society of Rheumatology issued a position statement on biosimilars, emphasizing the need for careful regulation and oversight in their use.
- Key recommendations include opposing automatic substitution of original drugs with biosimilars, advocating for certain prescription practices, and calling for the monitoring of patients treated with biosimilars to ensure safety and efficacy.