Biosimilar 60mg denosumab subcutaneous (sc) injections are now available for prescribing in the NHS, including in primary care.
In line with NHS England and NHS Dorset biosimilar policy, PCN teams are now asked to switch 95% of patients to the more cost-effective biosimilar alternatives as per the Dorset Formulary recommendations.
NOTE 120mg denosumab injections are prescribed for indications that are not normally prescribed in primary care.
Switching is required by the 30th September 2026.
A biosimilar medicine is a biological medicine, shown to be clincially equivalent to the originator product, in terms of quality, safety and efficacy. Where NICE has already recommended the originator biological medicine, the same guidance will apply to a biosimilar of that originator. NHS England aims to drive a step change in the uptake of biosimilar medicines by integrated care systems (ICS).
Biosimilar denosumab offers a cost-effective alternative to prescribing originator denosumab products
Discuss with local pharmacies, the intention to switch patients to biosimilar denosumab 60mg sc injection from Prolia brand.
When prescription is next due for Denosumab 60mg sc injection, prescribe as a Dorset formulary approved biosimilar (Stoboclo, Jubbonti or Osyvrt).
As per MHRA requirements please ensure biosimilar agents are prescribed by brand name.
Switching between an originator product and a biosimilar, or between biosimilars, should be a managed process involving both prescribers and patients. Decisions should be shared, and both parties aware of the brand name of the product received. This is important for traceability and safety reporting purposes.
NOTE 120mg denosumab injections are prescribed for indications that are not normally prescribed in primary care.
Protocol in SystmOne
An electronic prompt will appear each time you issue a Prolia prescription to prompt a formulary approved biosimilar brand of your choice.
How to communicate this to patients:
Use the template patient text message and letter in SystmOne to notify patients of the change. Ensure patient is counselled appropriately.
Denosumab text message:
NHS Dorset have asked GP teams to review prescriptions for denosumab 60mg injections. Denosumab is a biological medicine and is now available to prescribe as a biosimilar. In line with NHS England recommendations, NHS Dorset has asked GP teams to review the prescribing of biological medicines and where available prescribe as the equivalent biosimilar. Biosimilars work in the same way as the originator medicine, have the same benefits and side effects, but are better value for the NHS allowing more patients to receive treatment. Your prescription has been updated. If you have any questions regarding this change, please discuss with you community pharmacist or GP practice team.
Denosumab biosimilar awareness patient template letter
Denosumab template patient letter with blood monitoring information
References:
NHS England » What is a biosimilar medicine?
NHS England » Biosimilar medicines
NHS Dorset biosimilar documents can be found on the front page of the Dorset Formulary
Biosimilar uptake patient letter template
Dorset formulary: Prescribing support for denosumab prescribing
Tracking achievement:
Numerator divided by Denominator from SystmOne searches x 100 for %
