Comparative study of efficacy and safety: Biosimilar rituximab versus originator rituximab in the treatment of pemphigus

Abstract

Rituximab is a monoclonal antibody that targets CD20 antigen in B cells. For pemphigus, rituximab has been highly effective in steroid-sparing therapy for moderate to severe cases. Originator rituximab has demonstrated favorable treatment effects in patients with pemphigus, but its high cost remains a challenge. Biosimilar rituximab is expected to offer a potential solution. However, it is required for the comparative study of efficacy and safety between biosimilar and originator because all biosimilars may not be identical to the originator. In this study, we compared the treatment effects and safety of biosimilar (Truxima) and originator (MabThera) rituximab in patients with pemphigus. A final cohort of 52 patients in the MabThera group and 72 patients in the Truxima group was enrolled. Except for the intravenous immunoglobulin administration rate, there were no differences in baseline characteristics between the two groups, and for the purpose of comparing efficacy, investigations into time to complete remission, total steroid intake to complete remission, and total steroid intake for 6 months following rituximab treatment revealed no significant differences between the two groups. Truxima can be considered a relatively affordable alternative treatment option for pemphigus, offering cost-effectiveness to patients who are indicated for the treatment with MabThera.