Biopharmaceuticals: meaning, definitions and examples

Scientific, professional, or educational discussions about drugs produced using biotechnology or derived from biological sources. Generally used when emphasizing the production method.

• The company invests heavily in the development of innovative biopharmaceuticals.
• Biopharmaceuticals are often more complex and expensive to produce than traditional drugs.

Often used in clinical settings or patient-facing communications to refer to medications that are made from living organisms, living cells, or through biologic processes. Commonly used to make the term more relatable to patients or non-specialists.

• Biologic drugs have revolutionized the treatment of autoimmune diseases.
• Patients with severe psoriasis may benefit from biologic drugs.

Casual or general conversations, sometimes in marketing or business discussions. Refers to drugs developed through biotechnology but in a more layman-friendly term.

• The biotech drugs market is projected to grow significantly in the next decade.
• Innovations in biotech drugs can lead to more effective treatments.