Since 1 January 2024, Swiss pharmacists have been allowed to substitute biosimilars for prescribed biological originator products, much as they do with generics. Switzerland is taking a pioneering role in Europe. The aim is to save 300 million francs a year. Pharmacies are taking on new competences and responsibilities, including informing physicians, counselling patients and pharmacovigilance. Biosimilars are complex proteins: not identical to the originator, but similarly effective. The product information must be checked before substitution.