Biosimilar medicines refer to medicines that are highly similar to a reference biological medicine.
Biological medicines are used in the treatment of many acute and chronic conditions, in the areas of rheumatology, gastroenterology, dermatology, endocrinology, oncology and haematology, among others.
This hub provides links to helpful resources on biological and biosimilar medicines.
For health professionals
Key points
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Demystifying biologics, their biosimilars and the PBS
This podcast aims to demystify some of the processes involved in the listing of medicines on the Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme (PBS). Professor Debra Rowett (Discipline Leader of Pharmacy, University of SA) hosts a conversation with Professor Andrew Wilson (Chair of the PBAC) and Dr Paul Kubler (Consultant Rheumatologist, Royal Brisbane Hospital), covering topics including PBS sustainability, cost-efficacy considerations, and the impact of biosimilars on the PBS listing of biological medicines.
Resources for health professionals
About biosimilar medicines
NPS MedicineWise resources
- Understanding biological medicines, their biosimilars and the PBS
Includes a practical guide for pharmacists and an interactive tool on avoiding the 'nocebo effect'
- Biologics and other specialised medicines
Hub hosting bDMARDs information and resources
- Biologics, biosimilars and PBS sustainability
Medicinewise News
Additional resources
- Which biosimilar medicines are available in Australia?
Department of Health - Biosimilar Awareness Initiative
Department of Health - Biologics and biosimilars best practice
Guiding principles for the governance of biologics and their biosimilars in Australian hospitals (CATAG) - Biosimilars information hub for health professionals
GBMA Education
Information for pharmacists
- Biosimilars on the PBS
Pharmaceutical Benefits Scheme - Biological medicines, including biosimilar medicines explained
Pharmaceutical Society of Australia - Biologics and biosimilars – a practical guide for pharmacists
The Society of Hospital Pharmacists of Australia