US Medical Term · medications
Biologic Medication
Medicamento Biológico
Also: Biológico (regional variant)
In 9 languages
| Language | Term |
|---|---|
| English | Biologic Medication |
| Spanish (Español) | Medicamento Biológico |
| Chinese (中文) | 生物製劑 |
| Korean (한국어) | 생물학적 제제 |
| Vietnamese (Tiếng Việt) | Thuốc sinh học |
| Filipino (Tagalog) | Biologic na Gamot |
| Portuguese (Português) | Medicamento Biológico |
| Thai (ภาษาไทย) | ยาชีววัตถุ |
| Japanese (日本語) | 生物学的製剤 |
What it means
Biologic medications are complex drugs derived from living cells — such as bacteria, yeast, or mammalian cells — rather than manufactured through chemical synthesis. They include monoclonal antibodies, proteins, and gene therapies. Biologics are used to treat autoimmune diseases (like rheumatoid arthritis, Crohn's disease, and psoriasis), cancer, diabetes (insulin), and more. Because they target specific parts of the immune system, they can be very effective but also increase infection risk. Most biologics are given by injection or infusion and require refrigeration. Biosimilars are lower-cost versions approved as highly similar to an original biologic. Prior authorization from insurance is commonly required due to high cost.
How to say it
Sentences a patient might use with a doctor, nurse, pharmacist, or insurer:
Is this a biologic medication and how is it different from regular drugs?
¿Este es un medicamento biológico y en qué se diferencia de los medicamentos comunes?
Can I switch to a biosimilar version of this biologic to save on costs?
¿Puedo cambiar a una versión biosimilar de este biológico para reducir costos?
What infections or illnesses should I report to my doctor while on this biologic?
¿Qué infecciones o enfermedades debo informar a mi médico mientras tomo este biológico?
Where you'll see it
Related terms
Sources
Last reviewed: September 2026