Patient perspectives of successful adalimumab biosimilar transitioning in Crohn’s disease: an interview study

Abstract

ObjectivesTransition from originator biological medicines to their biosimilar equivalents is now part of routine clinical practice, but there is little understanding of patient experiences, which influence adherence and overall satisfaction with care. Understanding this will help ensure future switches adequately address patients’ concerns and expectations leading to better outcomes for all stakeholders.Method35 patients participating in a clinical trial including an open-label transition event from originator to biosimilar adalimumab, mimicking what would be encountered in a real-world setting, took part in semi-structured interviews exploring their experience of biosimilar transition.ResultsOpinions expressed were often heterogeneous, but common experiences and themes were identified. Five themes were identified following thematic analysis. (1) Understanding and awareness of biosimilars: prior awareness of biosimilars and knowledge of the biosimilar concept was low, indicating a disparity between healthcare professionals and patients. (2) Motivation to undertake transition: patients accept a biosimilar transition to minimise drug expenditure. (3) Initial concerns: before undertaking biosimilar transition away from the brand they had experienced, anticipated loss of efficacy and adverse effects from the biosimilar were common concerns for patients. (4) Reassuring factors: trust in the healthcare team is critical to patient acceptance of biosimilars. Important reassurances include a point of contact, education about biosimilars and monitoring. (5) Experiences during the transition: on reflection, participants described consistent efficacy and tolerability (although 22 participants specifically mentioned injection pain) following brand transition.ConclusionThe majority of patients felt comfortable with future transition to another adalimumab biosimilar. Injection experience was an important component of patient satisfaction.

Rheumatology Patients’ Experiences of a Mandatory Nationwide Transition to an Adalimumab Biosimilar

“…The findings highlight the importance of keeping patients’ experiences with the biosimilar treatment at the forefront of future brand changes. Consistent with previous research, participants’ experiences with the adalimumab injection (i.e., less pain and ease of device) were an important aspect of their satisfaction with the transition ( 15 ). Participants also reported that the biosimilar package changed, as alcohol wipes were not provided.…”

“…Understanding patients’ experiences of the adalimumab transition is particularly important as the biologic is self‐administered at home. As such, patients often experience a change in device (and branding) and are also more removed from their healthcare teams than when administered in the hospital ( 15 ). The present study explores rheumatology patients’ satisfaction with the biosimilar and care supplies, the supply of the biosimilar and logistics of the transition, administrative burdens, information and education, and availability of support.…”