What are Biologics?

We explain the science behind biologics and look at some of the conditions they are used to treat


What are biologics?

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Biologics are complex medicines made by living cells and include monoclonal antibodies and therapeutic proteins, such as insulin and growth hormone. 

How are biologics made?

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Biologics are complex compounds that can take many years to develop. These compounds are isolated from a variety of cellular sources using cutting-edge biotechnologies.

What are the potential benefits of biologics over chemically produced small molecule drugs?

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Because of their larger and more complex molecular structure, biologics can provide precise and personalized treatments for severe illnesses, with potentially fewer side effects and safety concerns.

Why are biologics important?

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Biologics are often used to treat severe and life-threatening diseases and may also be used to manage a range of medical conditions for which no other treatments are available.

Biologics: the science

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Recent research shows that biologic therapies have changed the face of oncology by targeting cancerous cells while reducing the effect on normal tissue*

* Biological Therapies in the Treatment of Cancer - Update and New Directions: National Library of Medicine

Biologics for treating asthma and migraine

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A 2019 study on asthma found that all five of the approved biologics for severe asthma reduced asthma exacerbations rates by half and also improved lung function and quality of life**

In clinical trials for migraine biologics, headaches were reduced by as much as 50% in patients experiencing multiple migraine days each month***

**Role of Biologics in Asthma: National Library of Medicine

***An Overview of New Biologics for Migraine Prophylaxis: U.S. Pharmacist