Abstract
Background
Biosimilars of hemopoietic growth factors present an important saving opportunity in oncology. However, while pharmacologists are aware of their potential benefits, biosimilars are still under-used in Italy. Improved information and guided clinical experience may help to increase the clinical acceptance of these drugs. To this aim, a collaborative educational project was set between an Hospital Oncology Unit and the Local Health Care Authority in Pavia, Italy.
Methods
The project lasted 12 months. The strategy included an education-information seminar at startup, a reporting meeting at \(+6\) months, electronic prescription monitoring and implementation of pharmacovigilance. The target was set to reach 90% of all naïve patients treated with biosimilars.
Results
At the end of the study (2013), a dramatic relative increase in the prescription of biosimilar drugs was noted, with virtually 100% of new patients receiving biosimilar drugs during the last 4 months, with a positive impact on average per capita drug expenses. Active pharmacovigilance did not report any serious adverse drug reactions. An anonymous questionnaire showed that oncologists judged the experience quite positively, acquired a positive attitude toward these drugs and considered biosimilars a relevant saving opportunity, while adherence to prescription guidelines was maintained. Analysis of the year following the end of the project, 2014, showed a persistent prescription change.
Conclusions
Results from this local experience suggests that specifically designed pragmatic interventions focused on information-education and monitoring may help in promoting the use and acceptance of biosimilar drugs in the real clinical setting.
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Perfetti, V., Dalle Carbonare, S., Vecchio, S. et al. Diffusion of biosimilar hemopoietic growth factors use in oncology practice: an Italian experience. PharmacoEcon Ital Res Artic 17, 3 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40276-015-0026-1
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s40276-015-0026-1