EPISODE 82: Understanding Biosimilars: A Patient’s Questions Answered
For people living with osteoporosis, hearing that a medication will be replaced with a biosimilar can raise understandable questions. Is it the same as the medication you are already taking? Will it work as well? Is it safe and why is the switch happening?
In this episode of Bone Talk, osteoporosis patient and BHOF Trustee Sally Fullman asks the questions patients may have about biosimilars. Dr. Naga Yalla, an endocrinologist and Associate Professor of Medicine at Washington University School of Medicine, explains the science in clear, practical terms.
Together, they discuss:
The difference between traditional medications, biologics, biosimilars, and generic drugs
How the FDA evaluates biosimilars for safety and effectiveness
Where patients with osteoporosis may encounter biosimilars, including biosimilars for denosumab
Why an insurer, pharmacy, or healthcare system may recommend a switch
What patients can expect when moving from a reference biologic to a biosimilar
Practical differences involving brand names, packaging, pharmacies, authorizations, and assistance programs
How biosimilars may improve access and reduce costs within the healthcare system
Why a lower medication cost does not always mean a lower out-of-pocket cost for every patient
Questions patients should ask their healthcare providers before starting or switching to a biosimilar
Why maintaining the established six-month dosing schedule for denosumab is especially important
Sally also shares her personal experience switching from Prolia to a biosimilar and how clear communication from her healthcare team helped make the transition a positive one. This conversation offers reassuring, patient-centered information to help people with osteoporosis better understand biosimilars and participate confidently in decisions about their care.