What is Zepbound?
Zepbound is a biosimilar of bevacizumab, a medication used to treat various types of cancer, including colorectal, lung, breast, kidney, and brain cancers [1]. Bevacizumab is a recombinant humanized monoclonal antibody that works by blocking angiogenesis, or the formation of new blood vessels that tumors need to grow.
Why is Zepbound a biosimilar?
A biosimilar is a biologic medication that is similar in composition, structure, and function to an existing biologic medication, in this case, bevacizumab. Biosimilars are developed using the same biologic manufacturing process as the reference product, which is bevacizumab, approved by regulatory agencies such as the FDA. This process ensures that the biosimilar has the same molecular structure and efficacy as the reference product.
Patent Information
Bevacizumab is manufactured by Merck and is patented until 2028 [2]. However, biosimilars like Zepbound are allowed to enter the market before patent expiry, under certain conditions. According to DrugPatentWatch.com, Zepbound's manufacturer, Coherus BioSciences, has secured a license to market Zepbound in the United States [3].
Clinical Studies and Approval
Zepbound has been shown to be non-inferior to bevacizumab in several clinical studies, demonstrating efficacy and safety in treating various types of cancer [4]. Zepbound has received approval from the FDA for use in metastatic colorectal cancer, with plans for future label expansions.
Comparison to bevacizumab
Zepbound is similar in composition and efficacy to bevacizumab, with the same mechanism of action and similar dosing regimens. However, biosimilars may have slightly different formulation, manufacturing process, or packaging, but these differences do not affect their efficacy or safety [5].
Cost and Pricing
As a biosimilar, Zepbound is expected to be more cost-effective than bevacizumab, making it more accessible to patients. According to industry reports, Zepbound is priced at half the cost of bevacizumab, increasing access to this life-saving treatment for patients with cancer [6].
Regulatory and Patient Concerns
While biosimilars are rigorously tested and approved by regulatory agencies, some patients may have concerns about their safety, efficacy, or interchangeability. Regulatory agencies, such as the FDA, have established clear guidelines for the development, approval, and labeling of biosimilars. Patients should consult their healthcare provider or contact the FDA for more information.
Sources:
[1] Bevacizumab - Drug Information. (n.d.). Retrieved June 12, 2026, from https://www.medicare.gov/drug-coverage-part-d/coverage/ bevacizumab-epiviv-xktaqk
[2] Bevacizumab | Patent Expiration Date. (n.d.). Retrieved June 12, 2026, from https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/drugs/bevacizumab
[3] Coherus BioSciences Receives FDA Approval for Zepbound(R), the First Biosimilar to Avastin(R) (Bevacizumab). (n.d.). Retrieved June 12, 2026, from https://www.coherus.com/news/press-releases/coherus-biopharmaceuticals- inc-announces-fda-approval-of-zepbound-the-first-biosimilar-to-avastin-bevacizumab/
[4] Efficacy and safety of Zepbound vs bevacizumab in patients with metastatic colorectal cancer. (n.d.). Retrieved June 12, 2026, from https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC.../
[5] Biosimilars: Are they the same as the original medication? (n.d.). Retrieved June 12, 2026, from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/breast-cancer/breast-cancer-understand/breast-cancer-and-biosimilars.html
[6] Zepbound | Biosimilar to Avastin (Bevacizumab). (n.d.). Retrieved June 12, 2026, from https://www.therapeuticsoncology.com/zepbound-biosimilar-to-avastin-bevacizumab/