logo for ASEBP MyRetiree Plan with colorful lowercase letters and green leaf accent for Alberta education retirees

Biosimilar Drugs

Biosimilar drugs are cost-effective, “highly similar” copies of brand-name biological drugs whose patents have expired. Health Canada reviews and approves biosimilars to ensure their safety and effectiveness.

The Alberta government’s Biosimilars Initiative requires the replacement of some brand name drugs with biosimilar drugs, when possible. This required change only applies if adult patients (those over 18 and not pregnant) have coverage under an Alberta government sponsored drug plan.

This change won’t affect your ASEBP benefits, at this time; however, if you have coverage under multiple plans, we encourage you to check what changes, if any, your other service provider may implement now or in the future. Other service providers are developing biosimilar strategies that may not align with ASEBP coverage, so it is important for ASEBP members to be well informed when using biological products to maximize coverage.

Visit the Government of Alberta’s Biosimilars Initiative for more information.

Doctor writing a prescription while reviewing a biosimilar drug bottle, with medical reference guides on desk

Ready to secure your retirement benefits?

Get a personalized quote in minutes, or speak with a benefits specialist who understands the unique needs of Alberta's retired educators.
crosschevron-down