biolääkkeen

Biolääke is a Finnish term that translates to "biologic" or "biopharmaceutical" in English. It refers to a medicinal product derived from or produced by living organisms or their components. Unlike traditional chemical drugs that are synthesized in a laboratory, biolääkkeet are typically large, complex molecules, such as proteins, antibodies, or nucleic acids.

These substances are often produced using biotechnological processes, involving genetically engineered cells or other biological systems. Due to their complex nature, biolääkkeet are usually administered through injection or infusion, as they would be broken down by the digestive system if taken orally.

Biolääkkeet are used to treat a wide range of diseases, particularly chronic and complex conditions. They are commonly employed in the treatment of autoimmune diseases like rheumatoid arthritis and Crohn's disease, as well as certain types of cancer, diabetes, and infectious diseases. Their mechanism of action often involves targeting specific molecules or pathways involved in the disease process, offering a more precise and sometimes more effective treatment option compared to conventional therapies. The development and production of biolääkkeet are complex and expensive, requiring specialized expertise and facilities.