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Biosimilars

What is a Biosimilar?

A biosimilar is a type of biologic medication. The term “biosimilar” means that the medication is highly similar to the already approved brand name biologic (“originator” medication). Biosimilars are not generic versions of the original biologic.

Romiplostim

Romiplostim is in a class of medications called thrombopoietin receptor agonists. It works by causing the cells in the bone marrow to produce more platelets. Romiplostim injection is used to increase the number of platelets enough to lower the risk of bleeding, but it is not used to increase the number of platelets to a normal level.

Hydroxyurea

Hydroxyurea is in a class of medications called antimetabolites. Hydroxyurea treats cancer by slowing or stopping the growth of cancer cells in your body. It can be used alone or with other medications to treat a certain types of leukemias. 

Heparin

Heparin is in a class of medications called anticoagulants ('blood thinners'). It works by decreasing the clotting ability of the blood. Heparin is also used to stop the growth of clots that have already formed in the blood vessels, but it cannot be used to decrease the size of clots that have already formed. 

Enoxaparin

Enoxaparin is in a class of medications called low molecular weight heparins. It works by stopping the formation of substances that cause clots. It is also used in combination with warfarin to treat blood clots in the leg. 

Deferoxamine

Deferoxamine is an iron-binding agent that belongs to a class of drugs known as heavy metal antagonists. It works by helping the kidneys and gallbladder get rid of the extra iron.