Abstract
Biological medicines are proteins and polysaccharides derived from living organisms. Vaccines, immunoglobulins, interferons, erythropoiesis-stimulating agents and low-molecular-weight heparins are examples of biological medicines. The traditional understanding of 'generics' cannot be directly applied to biological medicines. Off-patent biological medicines produced by alternative manufacturers are not generic medicines or biogenerics, but are 'similar biological medicinal products', otherwise known as biosimilars.
Original language | English |
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Title of host publication | Australian pharmaceutical formulary handbook |
Subtitle of host publication | the everyday guide to pharmacy practice |
Editors | Lloyd Sansom |
Place of Publication | Canberra |
Publisher | Pharmaceutical Society of Australia |
Chapter | B |
Pages | 94-96 |
Number of pages | 3 |
Edition | 23rd |
ISBN (Print) | 9780987455048 |
Publication status | Published - 2015 |
Keywords
- Biosimilars
- Biological medicines
- Drug therapy