By: IPP Bureau
Last updated : November 17, 2021 9:53 am
Branded and unbranded versions of the first-ever interchangeable biosimilar in the U.S. provide more affordable options for the millions of Americans living with diabetes
Biocon Biologics and Viatris announced the U.S. launch of interchangeable biosimilars SEMGLEE (insulin glargine-yfgn) injection, a branded product, and Insulin Glargine (insulin glargine-yfgn) injection, an unbranded product, to help control high blood sugar in adult and pediatric patients with Type 1 diabetes and adults with Type 2 diabetes. Both biosimilar products are available in a vial and prefilled pen presentations and are interchangeable for the reference brand, Lantus (insulin glargine), allowing for substitution at the pharmacy counter.
Shreehas Tambe, Deputy CEO, Biocon Biologics said: “This is indeed a landmark event and along with the recent formulary listings, we believe it will allow us to improve accessibility, availability and adoption of biosimilars in the U.S. for the benefit of patients and the overall healthcare system.”
Viatris Head of North America Jose Cotarelo said: “Viatris has a long-standing commitment to improving patient access to sustainable, quality and more affordable healthcare. We are extremely proud to stay true to that promise by bringing to millions of people with diabetes these interchangeable insulin biosimilar treatment options.”
Semglee (insulin glargine-yfgn) and Insulin Glargine (insulin glargine-yfgn), co-developed by Biocon Biologics and Viatris, are now available in the U.S. market. The currently marketed non-interchangeable Semglee (insulin glargine) is anticipated to be phased out by the end of the 2021 calendar year.