By Robert Preidt

HealthDay Reporter

MONDAY, Aug. 1, 2016 (HealthDay News) -- Generic biologic drugs are similarly effective to brand-name counterparts in treating rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory bowel disease and psoriasis, a new study says.

Biologics are medications made from living cells. They are complicated to manufacturer and companies that make brand-name versions say cheaper generic versions aren't interchangeable with their products.

The patents of many brand-name biologics are expiring and the use of generic versions (called biosimilars) could save patients and the healthcare system significant amounts of money, the Johns Hopkins University researchers noted.