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Home Industry News Biogen launches first biosimilar version of etanercept in UK

Biogen launches first biosimilar version of etanercept in UK

16th February 2016

Biogen has announced the UK launch of its new biosimilar version of the drug etanercept, following its approval by the European Commission last month.

The therapy was developed by Samsung Bioepis, a joint venture between Biogen and Samsung BioLogics, and is the first biosimilar product based on Pfizer and Amgen's branded product Enbrel to reach the market.

To be sold under the name Benepali, the drug is approved for the treatment of moderate-to-severe rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis, axial spondyloarthritis and plaque psoriasis.

Data from a phase III trial involving almost 600 patients from ten countries showed that Benepali offered an equal performance to the original reference product.

Darren Clarkson, UK and Ireland regional director for biosimilar products at Biogen, said: "Biogen has a rich heritage in biologics, and we are proud to be launching the first etanercept biosimilar here in the UK."

As with other biosimilars, Benepali offers the same performance as established versions of etanercept at a fraction of the cost, expanding access to treatment options for people affected by chronic inflammatory conditions.ADNFCR-8000103-ID-801812653-ADNFCR

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