For Americans with complex or chronic conditions, breakthrough medical innovations can provide a renewed hope for better disease management.
Developments in biologics – therapies derived from living cells – now give providers even more ability to personalize each patient’s treatment plan.
Biologics Differ from Small Molecule Drugs
Biologics are made from living sources, such as plant or animal cells, and are larger, more complex molecules than traditionally synthesized drugs. As biologic medicines have become more common, some have biosimilar counterparts. Biosimilars are engineered compounds that meet the same standard of safety and offer the benefit as their reference product, also called an originator biologic.
These treatments target specific cells and proteins in the body, turning signals on or off to control how cells react. Biologic medicines are an effective treatment option for an increasing number of diseases. And even where traditional alternatives exist, they may not be optimal for some patients. Biologics are increasingly filling that gap.
Biologics Require Special Care
Targeted treatments for autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and psoriasis are now available. There are also biologics for inflammation blockers for asthma, gene therapies for genetic disorders, and adjunct therapies for certain cancers.
Unlike conventional pills, biologics and biosimilars require specialized handling and administration. Some are injected at the clinician’s office, while others must be infused at a hospital or dedicated infusion center. In some cases, patients can self-administer biologics at home.
Promoting Access and Awareness
Optimal disease management requires both the existence of treatments and patients’ ability to access them. Patients benefit from advancements in drug discovery, with biologics leading the way.
Continuing to increase awareness about these cutting-edge treatment options will help even more patients reach optimal disease management.
