Impact of Trastuzumab Biosimilar Adoption on Cancer Treatment Access and Health System Savings: A Real-World Perspective From India
Author(s)
Balaji Thiyagarajan, Pharm D1, Dhanshika Vijayabaskar, PharmD2, Madhumitha Balaji, Pharm D1, Shailaja Krishnamoorthy, Ph.D3.
1c.l.baid metha college of pharmacy, Chennai, India, 2Student, C.L.Baid Metha College of Pharmacy, Chennai, India, 3The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, chennai, India.
1c.l.baid metha college of pharmacy, Chennai, India, 2Student, C.L.Baid Metha College of Pharmacy, Chennai, India, 3The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University, chennai, India.
OBJECTIVES: To assess the real-world effects of incorporating trastuzumab of biosimilars on treatment accessibility and health care expenditures in India.
METHODS: A comparative analysis was performed utilizing data from public procurement agencies (such as Jan Aushadhi and CGHS), government hospitals, and private pharmacies. The pricing of the original trastuzumab (Herceptin) and its biosimilars (such as Trasturel and Canmab) was evaluated. Access was measured by the number of patients starting trastuzumab therapy before and after the introduction of biosimilars across tertiary care centres. Interview with oncologists and pharmacists enhanced the analysis by exploring perceptions and prescribing habits.
RESULTS: - Cost comparison: The price of the original trastuzumab ranged from ₹55,000 to ₹75,000 per 440 mg vial in private pharmacies, whereas biosimilars were priced between ₹18,000 and ₹30,000, indicating a reduction in cost by 50-70%. -Improvement in Access: Hospital noted a 50-50% rise in the initiation rates of trastuzumab treatment following the availability of biosimilars. -Saving for the System: Government hospital employing biosimilars reported savings of approximately ₹2-3 crores annually for every 1000 patients treated. -Role of pharmacists: Pharmacists at oncology centers promoters’ education about biosimilars and assisted in monitoring adherence, which improved patient acceptance
CONCLUSIONS: The introduction of trastuzumab biosimilars in India has significantly enhanced treatment access for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer and has resulted in notable cost savings for public and private healthcare systems. Policies that promote the boarder use of biosimilars, alongside education led by pharmacists, can further optimize the delivery of oncology care.
METHODS: A comparative analysis was performed utilizing data from public procurement agencies (such as Jan Aushadhi and CGHS), government hospitals, and private pharmacies. The pricing of the original trastuzumab (Herceptin) and its biosimilars (such as Trasturel and Canmab) was evaluated. Access was measured by the number of patients starting trastuzumab therapy before and after the introduction of biosimilars across tertiary care centres. Interview with oncologists and pharmacists enhanced the analysis by exploring perceptions and prescribing habits.
RESULTS: - Cost comparison: The price of the original trastuzumab ranged from ₹55,000 to ₹75,000 per 440 mg vial in private pharmacies, whereas biosimilars were priced between ₹18,000 and ₹30,000, indicating a reduction in cost by 50-70%. -Improvement in Access: Hospital noted a 50-50% rise in the initiation rates of trastuzumab treatment following the availability of biosimilars. -Saving for the System: Government hospital employing biosimilars reported savings of approximately ₹2-3 crores annually for every 1000 patients treated. -Role of pharmacists: Pharmacists at oncology centers promoters’ education about biosimilars and assisted in monitoring adherence, which improved patient acceptance
CONCLUSIONS: The introduction of trastuzumab biosimilars in India has significantly enhanced treatment access for patients with HER2-positive breast cancer and has resulted in notable cost savings for public and private healthcare systems. Policies that promote the boarder use of biosimilars, alongside education led by pharmacists, can further optimize the delivery of oncology care.
Conference/Value in Health Info
2025-11, ISPOR Europe 2025, Glasgow, Scotland
Value in Health, Volume 28, Issue S2
Code
EE544
Topic
Economic Evaluation, Patient-Centered Research
Topic Subcategory
Budget Impact Analysis
Disease
Oncology