INTRODUCTION
Biologics are protein-based pharmaceuticals derived from living organisms that can treat autoimmune and inflammatory conditions.1 Biosimilars are biologic agents the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has deemed to have no clinical difference from their reference biologics.2 Biosimilars are developed when the patent for the reference product expires.
The first biosimilar was approved by the FDA in 2015.3 Currently, there are 39 biosimilars available, 11 of which are approved for psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), including biosimilars to adalimumab, etanercept, and infliximab.4 Of these, only Cyltezo (adalimumab-adbm) is considered interchangeable with its reference product, Humira (adalimumab). Interchangeable biosimilars are FDA-approved to be substituted for their biologic at the pharmacy without input from the prescriber, although this is subject to state laws and regulations.5 Although dermatologists are high prescribers of biologics, they are more reluctant to prescribe biosimilars than other specialists.6,7 This survey-based study sought to characterize dermatologists' current perspectives on biosimilars.
The first biosimilar was approved by the FDA in 2015.3 Currently, there are 39 biosimilars available, 11 of which are approved for psoriasis and hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), including biosimilars to adalimumab, etanercept, and infliximab.4 Of these, only Cyltezo (adalimumab-adbm) is considered interchangeable with its reference product, Humira (adalimumab). Interchangeable biosimilars are FDA-approved to be substituted for their biologic at the pharmacy without input from the prescriber, although this is subject to state laws and regulations.5 Although dermatologists are high prescribers of biologics, they are more reluctant to prescribe biosimilars than other specialists.6,7 This survey-based study sought to characterize dermatologists' current perspectives on biosimilars.
MATERIALS AND METHODS
A 27-question survey was distributed via email to dermatologists who subscribe to the Dermatologist Magazine and those registered with IQVIA between September and October of 2022. Fifty-two dermatologists responded.
RESULTS
Survey Respondent Characteristics
Respondents' clinical practices focused on medical dermatology (71%), surgical dermatology (23%), pediatric dermatology (13%), cosmetic dermatology (13%), or a combination of all the above (27%). Most dermatologists worked in a single-specialty group practice with fewer than five offices (46%), followed by solo dermatology practice (31%) (Table 1). Sixty-four percent of practice revenue was derived from medical office visits and consults, followed by
