OBJECTIVES: Biologics are efficacious in reducing disease activity in their authorized indications but represent a substantial cost in the healthcare systems. The objective of this study was to assess the budget impact of introducing adalimumab biosimilars in Spain for all licensed adult adalimumab indications.

METHODS: A budget-impact model was used to estimate the cost saving potential of introducing adalimumab biosimilars in Spain over a one- and two-year time horizon from a payer’s perspective. Current adalimumab-treated population was estimated through IMS sales data and the population was assumed to remain constant during the modelled horizons.

Modelled scenarios were developed for an adalimumab biosimilar vs the reference biologic product at two discounted prices (30% and 40%) as well as the potential cost saving opportunity with immediate transition of 30% and 40% of the market. Uptake was assumed to be linear over the timeframes.

RESULTS: Introduction of adalimumab biosimilars into the biologic treatment algorithm over a one- and two-year linear uptake timeframe, with a resulting market share of approximately 16% and 22% at completion could result in projected budget-savings of €15m, €20.5m, €20m and €27m respectively.

An immediate switch of 30% and 40% of the market at 30% and 40% price discounting could release potential savings of approximately €29m, €38.6m, €38.6m and €51.4m respectively.

CONCLUSIONS: The introduction of adalimumab biosimilars represents a substantial cost-saving potential for the healthcare system in Spain. Linear uptake can reduce the extent of savings potential. These savings could contribute to healthcare system sustainability in Spain providing access to for additional patients within the same therapeutic area, fund orphan drug therapies for other disease areas and/or support the wider investment in clinical infrastructure. Mechanisms in place that can support the biosimilar uptake are essential in order to achieve these savings.