Biosimilars are becoming more common in Canada, offering patients trusted alternatives to the originator biologic medication. Biosimilars are not the same as generics. Generics are exact chemical copies of brand-name drugs, like acetaminophen for Tylenol. Biosimilars are made from living cells and are highly similar, but not identical, to the original biologic. Because of this, they go through extensive testing to confirm they work just as well and are just as safe.
Two new biosimilars, Omlyclo (omalizumab), the biosimilar to Xolair, and Tyenne (tocilizumab), the biosimilar to Actemra, have now been approved in Canada.
Omlyclo is used for asthma, chronic hives, nasal polyps, and food allergies. Clinical trials showed that people who switched from Xolair to Omlyclo experienced the same level of safety and effectiveness. Interestingly, in the U.S., Omlyclo is even approved as interchangeable with Xolair, meaning a pharmacist can substitute it without a new prescription. While Canada doesn’t allow for interchangeability within biosimilars, the U.S. designation highlights how closely the two products match.
Tyenne is used for rheumatoid arthritis, giant cell arteritis, and juvenile arthritis. Just like Actemra, it’s also available in the intravenous and injectable formats.
Biosimilars like Omlyclo and Tyenne meet Health Canada standards. They offer more treatment options and improve access to drugs, without compromising quality. At Charlton Health, our pharmacists are here to support you and answer any questions you may have about switching to a biosimilar.
Joyce Ayad is a pharmacist at Charlton Health, who believes in providing patient-focused care, supported by her previous experience working with specialty drugs, the pharmaceutical industry, and more.