What is a biosimilar, and is it as safe and effective as the original cancer drug?

A biosimilar is a biological medicine that is highly similar to a biologic already approved by regulators — the "reference product" or "reference medicine." Unlike chemically made generics, biologics come from living sources such as cells or microorganisms, so a biosimilar is very similar, but not identical, to the original. The European Medicines Agency states that biosimilars are approved to the same standards of quality, safety and efficacy as other biological medicines, and that after years of clinical experience they "can be used as safely and effectively in all their approved indications." This is general information, not personal medical advice; discuss any switch with your own cancer care team.

Last updated: 2026-07-12

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