Incorporating Biosimilar Insulin in the Pharmacy: Updates on Interchangeability and the Role of the Pharmacist (Pharmacy Technician Credit)

Incorporating Biosimilar Insulin in the Pharmacy: Updates on Interchangeability and the Role of the Pharmacist (Pharmacy Technician Credit) is organized by Pharmacy Times Continuing Education (PTCE).,Release date: May 31, 2022,Expiration date: May 31, 2023,Description:,While to date there are a few insulin biosimilars approved for use in patients with diabetes and some undergoing clinical trials, the approval of the first interchangeable insulin biosimilar is an important step in improving access and reducing costs of diabetes management for patients. Pharmacists and pharmacy technicians must be familiar with FDA guidance regarding interchangeability and how the new insulin biosimilar will affect their practice. This program will explore the development, regulatory pathway and approval process, and safety and efficacy considerations for the use of the currently available interchangeable insulin biosimilar in diabetes management. As the role of biosimilars in the care of patients with diabetes continues to expand, pharmacists and pharmacy technicians will be valuable sources of information about these agents and will need to increase awareness about their use among prescribers and patients. This activity includes counseling videos that will cover important counseling pearls for pharmacists to educate healthcare providers as well as patients on the proper use and role of interchangeable insulin formulations in diabetes treatment and management to improve outcomes and access to care.,Educational Objectives:,At the completion of this activity, pharmacy technicians will be able to:,• Review the regulations and approval pathways for biologics and biosimilars,• Outline requirements for an interchangeable biosimilar,• Discuss advancements in insulin biosimilars in reducing barriers affecting insulin use, access, and adherence for patients with diabetes,• Express the role of the pharmacy technician in addressing patient barriers with insulin treatment and referring patients to the pharmacist as appropriate