Trastuzumab is an anti-HER2 monoclonal antibody indicated for the treatment of HER2-overexpressing breast and gastric cancers. Despite its clinical efficacy, access to the biological drug can be limited due to its relatively high price, especially in low-income countries. CT-P6 (Herzuma®) is a biosimilar candidate of originator or 'reference' trastuzumab, which may offer an alternative, more cost-effective treatment option. This article reviews the unmet needs of patients eligible to receive reference trastuzumab and the potential place of a trastuzumab biosimilar within the market. The review also summarizes the available clinical evidence supporting the biosimilarity of CT-P6 and reference trastuzumab with respect to pharmacokinetics, efficacy, safety and immunogenicity.
Keywords: CT-P6; HER2; Herzuma; biosimilar; breast cancer; efficacy; pharmacokinetics; safety; trastuzumab.