PEI Biosimilar Initiative
Some prescription drugs are made using living cells. These are called biologic drugs. The first version of a biologic drug is known as the originator or reference biologic.
Biosimilars are highly similar versions of originator biologic drugs. They become available once the originator’s patent expires. Biosimilars cost less and are reviewed by Health Canada to ensure they work the same way and are just as safe and effective.
When a biosimilar for an originator biologic is added to the PEI Pharmacare formulary, you will need to switch to the biosimilar before the end of the switching period to keep your coverage.
Information about which drugs are included in the PEI Biosimilar Initiative, along with switching timelines, is available in the PEI Pharmacare Formulary and shared with pharmacists and prescribers through PEI Pharmacare Bulletins.
As new biosimilars become available, the initiative will expand to include additional originator biologics.
How to switch
To give you time to meet with your health care provider, both the originator drug and its biosimilar will be covered until the switching period ends.
If your special authorization needs to be renewed during the switching period, you will need to switch to a biosimilar at that time.
Once the switching period ends, PEI Pharmacare will no longer cover the originator drug.
Your prescriber and pharmacist can help you switch and answer questions. They can also help you enroll in a biosimilar patient support program if needed.
If you don’t have an appointment before your special authorization expires
You or a healthcare provider must complete:
You will need to provide:
- the name of your originator biologic
- your prescriber’s name
- the date of your upcoming appointment
If your appointment is scheduled before the switching period ends, your special authorization may be extended for one month after your appointment date.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a biosimilar the same as a generic drug?
No. Generic drugs are exact copies of simpler, chemical medications. Biologic drugs are made from living cells and are more complex. Biosimilars are highly similar, but not identical, to their originator biologics.
Minor variations can occur between batches of both originator biologics and biosimilars, but these do not affect safety or effectiveness. Biosimilars work the same way as the originator biologic.
Are biosimilars safe and effective?
Yes. Before Health Canada approves a biosimilar, the manufacturer must show that it has no meaningful differences in safety, quality, or effectiveness compared to the originator drug. Patients and providers can feel confident using biosimilars.
What is the nocebo effect?
A person’s expectations can influence how they feel during treatment. If negative expectations lead to worse symptoms or outcomes, this is called the nocebo effect. (Positive expectations leading to better outcomes are known as the placebo effect.)
To help prevent a nocebo effect, you can:
- recognize that expectations can influence symptoms
- learn more about biosimilars (see (see Biosimilar Resources for Patients )
- talk with your healthcare provider
- stay informed about the switching process
- maintain a neutral or positive outlook
If I’m pregnant, can I delay switching?
Yes. You or a healthcare provider can complete the online biosimilar switching exemption form or the paper biosimilar switching exemption form and include your due date. You will need to switch to a biosimilar within three months after delivery.
What if my insulin pump isn’t yet confirmed to work with a biosimilar insulin?
You or a healthcare provider can complete the online biosimilar switching exemption form or the paper biosimilar switching exemption form . You or a health care provider must complete the exemption form and include:
- the name of your originator insulin
- the make and model of your insulin pump
You will need to switch once compatibility information becomes available.
What if I have private coverage?
If you do not rely on PEI Pharmacare for coverage, the Biosimilar Initiative may not affect you. However, some private insurers also have biosimilar switching policies. You may wish to contact your insurer for details.
For More Information
- Biosimilar Resources for Patients
- Biosimilar Resources for Health Care Professionals
- Call (902) 368‑4947