Recently, Pfizer (PFE) announced it had achieved positive phase 3 results for its biosimilar candidate of Roche's (OTCQX:RHHBY) Avastin. Pfizer's biosimilar in question is known as PF-06439535. In a head-to-head trial, PF-06439535 was able to meet the primary endpoint of the study versus Avastin (bevacizumab). In my opinion, these positive results set the stage for Pfizer to pile in the space with its biosimilar version of Avastin.
Another Biosimilar
Pfizer has leaped into the race, but that doesn't mean it is the only one aiming for BLA approval as an Avastin biosimilar. Amgen (AMGN) and Allergan (AGN) just last month received a positive panel recommendation for BLA approval of their drug, ABP 215. (For further information about about ABP 215 as a biosimilar to Avastin, read "Amgen and Allergan Panel Backing In NSCLC Is A Win For Patients.") The analysis of this article is that Amgen and Allergan achieved the primary endpoint of objective response rate (ORR) compared to Avastin. This allowed for the BLA filing, and the positive panel recommendation last month. Pfizer has just achieved positive results in its phase 3 trial of an Avastin biosimilar, therefore it is not that far behind. With Pfizer into the mix it will be a highly competitive landscape.
