As biotech drugs are more difficult and expensive to make than traditional chemical-based pills, biosimilar makers are unwilling to sharply reduce prices of the original versions. Medications with patents that are near expiration are causing prices to skyrocket, often costing families more than their monthly rents.
By the time a biosimilar for Humira goes on sale, it will probably cost well above what Humira charged before its cost began rising rapidly, says Jim Carlson, vice president of clinical-pharmacy services at OmedaRX, the pharmacy division of Cambia Health Solutions.
Read the full article "Knockoffs of Biotech Drugs Bring Paltry Savings" in the Wall Street Journal.
