Crohn's Chronicles :: Wezlana {Biosimilar}

This week, I took my first dose of the biosimilar. There are currently 7 biosimilars that are approved for Stelara, and I was prescribed Wezlana. 

I had to have a consult with the pharmacist, and he asked me if I was aware that "the biosimilar is the generic for Stelara, so the same as Stelara?" I know he is just doing his job and parroting the lines he is supposed to, but I politely responded by telling him that "I am aware that the biosimilar is similar to Stelara, but not the same, yes." I'm sorry, but I have played this game for too long, and I am being forced onto this medication against my will. 

All of the literature states that biosimilars are similar but not, in fact, the same. By the very nature of how biologics are made, they cannot be exactly the same, and cannot be a generic. They are made with a completely different process. Theoretically, they should be indistinguishable in your body, but there is not a guarantee. Given my history of a biologic failing me, due to a slight change in an additive {see Humira Citrate-Free}, I don't have confidence that any slight differences in the biology of this biosimilar will fair any better for me. And I don't believe an insurance company should get to make the decision, especially in opposition to my doctor. Particularly when my health is stable. {/end soapbox}

I truly hope I am wrong. I am praying for no side effects and continued/preserved remission. The first few days after my initial dose brought irritated bowels, nausea, fatigue, and a massive migraine. I am hoping that it is a temporary reaction to the shot, and that all will balance out in time. I didn't necessarily anticipate an initial reaction, but am keeping an eye for more issues as we head into the new year. I started seeing flares around the 3 to 4 month mark after the change in Humira, so we shall see where I am at in a few months.  I am thankful that I will get to check in with my neurologist in November and my GI in December.

Now I have to wait and trust and let go. I can't control any of what has happened or what will come, and I have to rest in the Lord's care for me. He is is in control, and I have to let Him fight my battles for me. I will be honest, that's going to be so hard and infuriating if I am proved right. If a few months from now, I start flaring, just like I am predicting. But even if that happens, I have to trust that the Lord is still sovereign and good. And I have to walk this path forward, trying to surrender to the outcome, good or bad, expected or not. He has always been good and kind, and I know He will be again.