Sandoz to test biosimilar for adalimumab

Sandoz has begun a phase 3 trial of a biosimilar version of adalimumab (Humira, AbbVie) for moderate-to-severe plaque psoriasis.

Sandoz will test the biosimilar in an effort to demonstrate its similarity, efficacy and immunogenicity compared to adalimumab. The trial includes patients and physicians from 12 countries, according to a news release.

“Because psoriasis is a chronic condition that often requires lifelong management treatment can become a significant financial strain for many patients and healthcare systems,” Peter van de Kerkof, M.D., Ph.D., chairman of the department of dermatology, Radboud University Nijmegen Medical Centre, Netherlands, is quoted as saying. “A high-quality and clinically proven biosimilar version of adalimumab could play a meaningful role in alleviating cost burdens related to this disease.”

Sandoz has 50 percent market share of all biosimilars approved in the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia and Japan, according to the company.