Cioch, M., Jawniak, D., Kotwica, K., Wach, M., Manko, J., Goracy, A., . . . Hus, M. (2014). Biosimilar granulocyte colony-stimulating factor is effective in reducing the duration of neutropenia after autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation. Transplantation Proceedings, 46, 2882–2884.
To determine the effectiveness of biosimilar granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (G-CSF) as compared to originator G-CSF in reducing the duration of neutropenia following autologous peripheral blood stem cell transplantation (APBSCT).
The study group received biosimilar G-CSF following myeloablative chemotherapy and APBSCT. G-CSF was initiated when the absolute neutrophil count (ANC) dropped below 0.5 and continued until the ANC exceeded 1.5 for three consecutive days. Hematopoietic recovery was compared to the control group, which had received originator G-CSF.
Prospective observational with historical control comparison
The primary comparator studied was duration of G-CSF treatment. Adverse events were also compared.
There was no significant difference between the biosimilar and originator G-CSF groups with respect to duration of therapy (p=0.43). The frequency of occurrence of the most common adverse events (neutropenic fever and bone pain) were also comparable.
Biosimilar G-CSF had been previously demonstrated to have similar efficacy and safety as originator G-CSF. This study confirms the value of using biosimilar G-CSF in a post-transplantation setting.
Biosimilar G-CSF therapy has similar efficacy to originator G-CSF in patients with ABPSCT, but with significant cost savings. Because patients and caregivers are typically unable to work during the prolonged transplantation process, financial stressors are a frequent concern. Lowering medical costs helps alleviate financial concerns for patients and insurers.