Generic Pharmaceutical Association launches Biosimilars Council

The Generic Pharmaceutical Association on Thursday announced that launch of the Biosimilars Council, a division of GPhA.

The Biosimilars Council will be made of manufacturers and stakeholders working to guarantee a positive regulatory, reimbursement, political and policy environment that supports patient access to biosimilars.

“Following unanimous board of directors’ approval, the Biosimilars Council is the culmination of the association’s longstanding and unwavering commitment to patient access to safe, affordable and lifesaving biosimilar medicines,” GPhA board chairman and Momenta Pharmaceuticals Inc.  CEO and President Craig Wheeler said. “The GPhA Biosimilars Council is designed to meet the unique needs of healthcare companies as they navigate this emerging space.”

The Biosimilars Council also is the industry’s first educational resource for the general public and patient groups seeking information about the safety and effectiveness of biosimilars. One of the first contributions of the Biosimilars Council will be an educational handbook, "The Next Frontier for Improved Access to Medicines: Biosimilars and Interchangeable Biologic Products," which will explain the the benefits and science behind biosimilar medicines.

“In addition to being a voice with policymakers, this new division will be an invaluable partner for patients, providers, manufacturers, consumer groups and stakeholders from all corners of the supply chain seeking to stay apprised of critical developments regarding biosimilars,” Wheeler said.