Biosimilars in Ophthalmology: Financial Implications and Beyond

Anti-vascular endothelial growth factors (anti-VEGF) have transformed retinal disease management. However, the benefit of anti-VEGF therapy is still limited by the high cost of treatment, specifically in areas where patients are not well covered with insurance and need to pay out of their pocket. Off-label bevacizumab usage has been associated with the risk of infection due to a lack of compounding pharmacies in such areas. In India, the entry of ranibizumab biosimilars has made a significant change and improved access to anti-VEGF therapy for many patients. Recent ranibizumab biosimilar approvals by the European Medicines Agency and the US Food and Drug Administration have brought this therapy to the forefront and have the potential to save the nation’s healthcare spending on these drugs. However, it is yet to be seen how biosimilar anti-VEGF therapy will fit into the crowded space of anti-VEGF therapy globally.