Sarfaraz K. Niazi, PhD

Sarfaraz K. Niazi, PhD, is an adjunct professor of biopharmaceutical sciences at the University of Illinois and the University of Houston, and founder of biosimilars companies Karyo Biologics and Adello Biologics. He also founded the biosimilar advisory company PharmSci.


BioRationality: Should mRNA Copies Be Filed as NDAs or Biosimilars?

November 04, 2024

The article by Sarfaraz K. Niazi, PhD, argues that the FDA’s classification of future copies of messenger RNA (mRNA) products could be reconsidered, suggesting they might be eligible for new drug applications (NDAs) or a hybrid biosimilar category due to their unique characteristics and increasing prevalence.

BioRationality—The Evolution of the BPCIA and the Bright Future of Biosimilars in the US

October 07, 2024

The Biologics Price Competition and Innovation Act (BPCIA) of 2010 initially posed significant barriers to biosimilar development, but regulatory reforms over the years have drastically reduced costs and approval times, with further advancements expected by 2025 that will foster competition and drive down prices.

BioRationality: FDA Clarification Provides New Indications and Process Change for Biosimilars

September 09, 2024

Sarfaraz K. Niazi, PhD, explains the FDA's new guidelines on post-approval changes for biosimilars, emphasizing the processes for reporting modifications, comparability assessments, and the potential for biosimilars to introduce new indications or formulation changes, which could significantly impact their market competitiveness and accessibility.

BioRationality: FDA Opens Up Biosimilar Inquiries on Reddit

August 26, 2024

Sarfaraz K. Niazi, PhD, urges stakeholders to engage with the FDA on its Reddit forum—where a representative will answer complex biosimilar questions—encourages clearing misconceptions, and advocates for updates to the Biologics Price Competition and Innovation Act guidelines.

BioRationality: Bill to Remove Double Patenting That Harms Biosimilars Heads to the House

August 12, 2024

Sarfaraz K. Niazi, PhD, argues that the S-150 bill, also known as the "Affordable Prescriptions for Patients Act of 2023," aims to reduce drug prices by addressing anti-competitive practices, such as patent thickets and product hopping, which hinder the entry of cheaper biosimilars and generics into the market.

BioRationality: Time to Get Rid of PBMs if Biosimilars Are to Succeed

July 15, 2024

Sarfaraz K. Niazi, PhD, discusses the challenges with pharmacy benefit managers (PBMs) that plague the biosimilar industry and new legislation that attempts to reform their practices and encourage biosimilar adoption.