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Yes, rituximab biosimilars are covered by the provincial drug plan in Alberta. In fact, all biologics listed on our website are covered by the provincial plan for inflammatory arthritis.

Donna from Edmonton asks: Which biosimilars are covered in Alberta?

We are fortunate that ALL biosimilars in rheumatology are essentially covered through the provincial drug plan. You can see the options available here for TNF blockers, with more to be available in the coming months. Work with your rheumatologist to find the right medication for you, especially now with so many options available.

Lily from Edmonton asks: Is there a generic version of Enbrel or Etanercept that will do the same thing Enbrel does for less cost? I can’t get Enbrel covered anymore.

Biosimilars are new medications which are biologically similar to original biologics. In Canada, as of 2020, Enbrel and Remicade both have biosimilars available and many medication insurance plans are, or are considering, not providing coverage to the original biologic, but rather the less expensive biosimilar. For most patients, the biosimilar should be as effective and safe. However, for each individual, it is important to speak with your rheumatologist to make the right decision for you. For more information on biosimilars, please click here.