A biosimilars knowledge gap exists among US dermatologists, according to a recent study, suggesting the need for more educational initiatives. In order to identify gaps in biosimilar knowledge and perception among dermatologists, researchers sent an online survey to dermatologists from January to April 2015. 97 US dermatologists responded, of which 84% state they prescribe biologics in their practice. They found:

• Only 37% of dermatologists were aware that a biosimilar is highly similar to a US-licensed reference biological product, 26% incorrectly described a biosimilar as a “generic” of a known biologic, and 10% of dermatologists stated they did not know the definition.
• Most dermatologists (88%) believe that substitutions from biologics to biosimilars will be made by pharmacists without consulting the physician.
• 37% of dermatologists believed that a biosimilar with the same name as a biologic suggested they are “structurally identical.”
• Only 25% said they would likely prescribe biosimilars to their patients, while 38% stated they would try using them on a very select, small group of patients before trying it on a majority of their patients.