Edward Li’s biosimilars research featured by Pharmacy Times

Research on biosimiliars by Edward Li, Pharm.D., M.P.H., BCOP, associate professor in the 51С»Æ³µDepartment of Pharmacy Practice, was recently featured in the article in Pharmacy Times. 

The 2010 Affordable Care Act paved the way for FDA approval of biosimilars. With many blockbuster biologics’ patents expiring, pharmacists can expect change, and potentially, lower costs.

It is important that pharmacists educate themselves so they can properly inform patients about the safe and effective use of biosimilars, according to copresenter James Stevenson, PharmD, FASHP, of the University of Michigan.

Biologics’ issues are unique compared with those of simple molecules. With biologics’ living cell culture sources, comparatively high molecular weights, complex folding, variable stability, and immunogenic properties (which create antibodies or neutralizing products), stakeholders have been concerned that demonstrating true interchangeability would be impossible.

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The University of 51С»Æ³µ is Maine’s largest independent university, with two beautiful coastal campuses in Maine, a one-of-a-kind study abroad campus in Tangier, Morocco, and an array of . In an uncommonly welcoming and supportive community, we offer hands-on learning, empowering students to make a positive impact in a world full of challenges. The state’s top provider of health professionals, we are home to Maine’s only medical college, Maine’s only dental college, a variety of other interprofessionally aligned health care degree programs, as well as nationally recognized programs for marine science degrees, natural and social sciences degrees, arts and humanities degrees, and business degrees.