Survey Overview
Crohn’s and Colitis Canada surveyed people diagnosed with Crohn’s and colitis who had experience the mandated innovator biologic to biosimilar switch in British Columbia and Alberta (due to new government policies) to gain further insights into the patients’ post-switch experience.
This survey complements the Crohn’s and Colitis Canada report prepared with CAG that identified that 1 in 11 patients would have worse clinical outcomes with a non-medical switch. The survey focused on patient experiences with being switched from an innovator biologic to their biosimilar medication.
Survey participants
Patients in British Columbia and Alberta with Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis who were switched from Remicade® to its biosimilars (Inflectra® or Renflexis®) or from Humira to its biosimilars (Hulio®, Idacio®, Hyrimoz®, Simlandi™, Hadlima™, Amgevita™).
- 266 respondents
- 150 of the respondents experienced the innovator biologic to biosimilar switch and were included in the analysis
Study method
- Online survey
- Promoted by email
Summary of findings
Before Switch
9 in 10 respondents were stable (in remission) for at least 2 years.
After Switch
5 in 10 respondents experienced a worsening of health immediately after the switch.
1 in 10 reported emergency visits or hospitalization after the switch.
1 in 10 reported having to undergo multiple tests and/or follow up doctor visits.
1 to 2 Years After Switch
8.5 in 10 reported that they were still on the same biosimilar.
1.5 in 10 reported that they had to switch medications and were no longer on the biosimilar that they were prescribed.
Of those who reported worsening of health, symptoms included increase in frequency of bowel movements, bloody stools, abdominal pain, fatigue, anemia, bloating, constipation and weight loss.
Impact on their daily activities included missed days at work or school, additional doctors’ visits, emergency room visits, additional tests, out of pocket expenses and hospitalization.