Biologics and biosimilars are complex medications that can help treat many conditions. These medications are typically very different from your average oral pill, so you may have many questions if your doctor has suggested or prescribed a biologic.
Learn the answers to common questions about biologics and biosimilars, according to Stacia Woodcock, PharmD, Pharmacy Editor at GoodRx, and Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD, Director of Pharmacy Content at GoodRx.
Stacia Woodcock, PharmD, is a pharmacy editor for GoodRx. She earned her Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Kentucky and is licensed in New York and Massachusetts.
Alyssa Billingsley, PharmD, is a pharmacist on the GoodRx team with a decade of experience. She is also an adjunct faculty at St. Louis College of Pharmacy, where she graduated with a doctorate in pharmacy. She is licensed to practice in Missouri and is a member of the National Council of Prescription Drug Programs (NCPDP) and the Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society (HIMSS). Prior to GoodRx, Alyssa worked in both clinical and administrative roles. She was recognized with the Distinguished Alumnus Outstanding Achievement Award in 2017 for her work in developing pharmacy programs to expand patient access to quality medications.
References
Federal Trade Commission. (2023). Are you on a biologic medication? What you need to know about biosimilar treatment options.
National Cancer Institute. (n.d.). Side effects of biologic therapy.
Quartuccio, L., et al. (2019). Risk of serious infection among patients receiving biologics for chronic inflammatory diseases: Usefulness of administrative data. Journal of Advanced Research.
Ruffing, V. (2016). Side effects of biologic medications. Johns Hopkins Arthritis Center.
Singh, J. A., et al. (2011). Adverse effects of biologics: A network meta-analysis and Cochrane review. The Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews.
U.S. Food and Drug Administration. (2023). Biosimilar basics for patients.
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