OBJECTIVES: To assess the cost saving opportunity of adalimumab biosimilars for the treatment of psoriasis within the EU-5 countries (Germany, Italy, Spain, France, UK).

METHODS: A cost-comparison model was used to estimate the cost-saving potential of utilising adalimumab biosimilars against the incumbent adalimumab reference biologic. To estimate the treatment costs, the list prices of the reference adalimumab as of February 2020 were used. Actual prices might differ due to tender contracts. The costs of the adalimumab biosimilars were calculated by applying a discount level ranging from 20-70% of the reference biologic to reflect current discounting within the relevant healthcare-system. The cost savings were calculated by deducting the yearly treatment costs of the biosimilar from the reference molecule. No discontinuation of treatment was assumed, and the market share was not considered in this model. The savings were calculated on a per patient basis over a one-year timespan.

RESULTS: Using adalimumab biosimilars instead of the adalimumab reference biologic could generate savings of €3.000 - €10.300 per patient per year in Italy, €5.100 - €17.800 per patient per year in Germany, €2.800€ - €9.900 per patient per year in Spain, €1.500 - €5.100 per patient per year in France and £3.000 - £8.000 per patient per year in the UK, depending on current market conditions. These savings provide flexibility in delivering headroom for innovation and funding opportunities in the relevant healthcare systems.

CONCLUSIONS: The pricing reductions that a biosimilar entry brings to the market are crucial to maximize the potential of the healthcare services ¹. Released savings provide opportunities to fund additional nursing and clinical posts to support the patient pathway, fund innovative treatment options in psoriasis or treat patients earlier in their disease progression. The adalimumab biosimilar brings new opportunities to the healthcare system and can change the treatment paradigm.