We continue with the next video in the series of Tu Farmacéutico Informa video advice focused on raising awareness of biosimilar biological medicines in the diseases in which these drugs are most used.
Let's first remember what a biosimilar is. When a biological medicine loses its patent and its exclusivity in the market, it opens up to competition, making it possible for other laboratories to market the same active ingredient.
And these are biosimilar drugs: biological drugs that are prescribed by your doctor and that meet the same guarantees of quality, safety and effectiveness as the original biological.
Diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that mainly affects the endocrine system. It is characterized by blood glucose being too high. But why does it occur? Due to the lack of insulin production in the body or the malfunction of this hormone.
It is estimated that in 2022 in Spain there will be more than 5 million people diagnosed with diabetes mellitus, that is, one in seven adults. With this information we can deduce that this disease is a serious public health problem, so having the best therapeutic options for all patients who need it is a priority.
The arrival of biological medications was an unprecedented milestone in the treatment of diabetes. Therefore, the appearance of biosimilar medications is good news since it makes these treatments more accessible with the same health results.
The biosimilar currently used for diabetes mellitus is insulin glargine, which is a long-acting insulin, that is, it has a duration of action of between 18 and 24 hours. In addition, it is administered subcutaneously and its device is a prefilled pen.
Remember that being the same type of device, each pen has specific application instructions, so it is important that a health professional teach you how to administer it yourself or someone around you.
Furthermore, another very important aspect to take into account is that subcutaneous medications have special storage conditions, specifically they must be stored in the refrigerator (between 2ºC and 8ºC). It is important that the medication is not frozen and is preserved from light until the moment of use to keep its properties intact.
When you are going to administer it, remember that it is very important to temper the medication for the time indicated on the package insert before using it.
When you travel, you must maintain the cold chain of your medication, which is why you need to bring a portable refrigerator that maintains the temperature between 2ºC and 8ºC. This can ensure that the medication retains its properties and will produce the desired therapeutic effect in your body.
Also keep in mind that when managing diabetes it is important to maintain some control over your diet.
In addition, glucometers are easy-to-use devices that allow you to quickly determine blood glucose levels.
Remember, always ask your trusted pharmacist, the healthcare professional who is expert in the medication. We will inform you and resolve any questions you may have.