Date
2012
Dewey
Economie sociale
Sujet
Competition strategy; product portfolio; re-innovation; super generics; technology platforms
JEL code
I.I1.I12; O.O3.O32; L.L6.L65
Journal issue
Farmeconomia e percorsi terapeutici
Volume
13
Number
3S
Publication date
2012
Article pages
21-27
Publisher
SEEd Medical Publishers
Author
Barei, Fereshteh
status unknown
Le Pen, Claude
status unknown
Simoens, Steven
status unknown
Type
Article accepté pour publication ou publié
Abstract (EN)
BACKGROUND: The transition of the generic/biotechnology industry to innovation by investing in innovative R&D will enhance business expertise in biopharmaceutical development and manufacturing. The major impact of this evolution is on patient access to treatment and savings for the health care systems. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this paper is to investigate the innovative aspect of biosimilar and biobetter products, manufactured by some big generic companies. We will also try to explore the innovative business strategy, implementing this high risk product differentiation policy. METHODS: This qualitative research is conducted by a series of interviews with CEOs, physicians, and academics in different countries. The qualitative data obtained were analyzed by Nvivo9.2 software. A literature review has also contributed to our key findings. RESULTS: The results show that switching into biosimilars/biobetters is an innovative strategic choice, approved by some big generic pharmaceutical companies. The biosimilar/biobetter products can be considered innovative because of their value added quality. CONCLUSION: Expanding the product portfolio to biosimilars/biobetter can be considered as a long run strategy in the innovative business plans aiming to ensure the market access. Patients and their access to better treatments are major components of these innovative business models.