There are few data regarding multiple switching from the originator Infliximab to its biosimilars.
To assess outcomes and patient perspectives in a prospective manner after double switching from Infliximab to the biosimilars CT-P13 and SB2.
A total of 158 consecutive patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) receiving CT-P13 maintenance therapy were switched to SB2 and followed for 54 weeks. Patients were stratified according to previous switch from the originator Infliximab to CT-P13 (double switch group) or not (single switch group).
The drug persistence was high (94.9%) after 54 weeks. In total, 17 (10.8%) patients experienced loss of response to SB2, including 10 patients who were managed through dose optimisation and continued treatment. No changes were observed in clinical activity scores, fatigue, biological activity and pharmacokinetical parameters after the switch. The safety profile was in line with the current knowledge of Infliximab. According to the Beliefs about Medicines Questionnaire, the patients' perspectives did not change after switching from CT-P13 to SB2. The primary patient concerns remained after the switch, which were focused on effectiveness and safety rather than on the molecular differences between originator and biosimilars or socioeconomic benefits. There were also no differences in the concerns and beliefs between the double and single switch groups.
Double switching from the originator Infliximab to CT-P13 and then to SB2 was not associated with an impairment in patient beliefs, while the effectiveness, immunogeniity and safety of anti-TNF therapy remained stable after 54 weeks of follow-up.