Fostering adherence to injectable disease-modifying therapies in multiple sclerosis

Preferences and Perspectives of Specialist Multiple Sclerosis Nurses and Patients with Multiple Sclerosis Regarding the New RebiSmart® 3.0 Autoinjector versus Other Assistive Devices

Purpose

RebiSmart® is an electromechanical multidose autoinjector developed for administering subcutaneous interferon beta-1a in patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). This online survey aimed to understand MS nurses' and pwMS preferences and perceptions regarding the features of an upgraded version of the RebiSmart device (RebiSmart 3.0) compared to other assistive devices used for multiple sclerosis (MS) therapy.

Patients and Methods

Eligible MS nurses and pwMS from Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom completed a double-blind, 30-minute online self-administered questionnaire, including a 10-minute video describing the features of RebiSmart 3.0 and its use in administering interferon beta-1a.

Results

In total, 102 participants (MS nurses, n=52; patients, n=50) completed the survey. Overall, 70% respondents found the RebiSmart 3.0 device "very"/"extremely" appealing, 53% were "very"/"extremely" interested in learning more, and 71% stated they would be "very"/"extremely" comfortable using (pwMS) or educating (MS nurses) on it. Among current or recent RebiSmart 2.0 users (vs RebiSmart 2.0 nonusers), 67% (vs 52%) rated RebiSmart 3.0 "very" or "extremely" appealing, 52% (vs 43%) were "very" or "extremely" interested in learning more about the device, and 67% (vs 48%) stated they would be "very" or "extremely" comfortable using the RebiSmart 3.0 device. Respondents ranked customizable injection process (including injection speed, hold time, depth and rotation guide), self-injection process, and hidden needle as the most important self-assistive device features. RebiSmart 3.0 was rated higher than other self-injecting devices on all tested features. Overall, with respect to the top three features, 89% of the MS nurses and 73% of PwMS rated RebiSmart 3.0 "very good" or "excellent". After reviewing the video, 52% respondents had no questions, 67% nurses recommended providing more information on the customizable injection process feature of RebiSmart 3.0 to patients, and 88% nurses considered patient demonstration materials to be the most helpful type of information for them when initiating and educating pwMS on self-assistive devices.

Conclusion

The overall reactions of MS nurses and pwMS to the RebiSmart 3.0 device features were positive. The incremental advances over previous versions of the device as well as in comparison with other currently available assistive devices were welcomed. The MS nurses identified key needs for patient education on the use of the device and the suitable approaches (training videos and educational leaflets) to support MS nurses and pwMS.

The Adherence and Outcomes Benefits of Using a Connected, Reusable Auto-Injector for Self-Injecting Biologics: A Narrative Review

Many biologics are now self-administered by patients at home. A variety of self-injection devices are available, including vials and syringes, prefilled syringes, and spring-driven prefilled pens or auto-injectors. Each has advantages and drawbacks, and different devices suit different patients. For example, some patients have difficulty achieving consistent and successful self-injection due to poor manual dexterity, or experience anxiety at the prospect of self-injection or injection-site pain. These factors can reduce patients' medication adherence and overall experience. Furthermore, while self-injection brings patients many benefits, the proliferation of single-use injection devices has implications for environmental sustainability, including the reliance on single-use plastics, repeated freighting requirements, and need for incineration as hazardous waste. Recently developed, innovative electromechanical auto-injector devices offer technological enhancements over existing devices to overcome some of these issues. Features include customisable injection speeds or durations, consistent rate of injection, electronic injection logs and reminders, and step-by-step, real-time instructions. Indeed, a growing body of evidence points to higher adherence rates among patients using electromechanical devices compared with other devices. Further, with time, the reusability of electromechanical devices may prove to lighten the environmental impact compared with disposable devices, especially as research continues to optimise their sustainability, driven by increased consumer demands for environmental responsibility. This narrative review discusses the differences between prefilled syringes, spring-driven prefilled pens, and electromechanical devices. It also explores how these features may help reduce injection-associated pain and anxiety, improve patient experience, connectivity and adherence, and drive sustainability of biologic drugs in future.

Satisfaction and practicality of a prefilled glatiramer acetate pen in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis patients

Aim: Evaluation of practicality and patient satisfaction of a glatiramer acetate (GA) prefilled pen in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Patients & methods: A cross-sectional, multicenter, observational study evaluating patients' experiences with the GA-pen 3 months after its first use by means of self-reporting questionnaires. Primary end point was the proportion of patients who were satisfied with the pen. Results: 80 patients participated in the study. The majority (83.7%) was satisfied with the pen and 95% rated its application as easy or very easy. Conclusion: Most patients were satisfied with the GA-pen and rated its application as easy or very easy. Among the 12 device features, starting the injection without an injection button was considered the most appreciated feature. Improvements in pen functionality and design might allow patients to overcome many difficulties with self-injection, even those leading to nonadherence. But, this hypothesis awaits further validation by real-world follow-up studies.

Usability validation of the Sensoready® pen in patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis

Background: The Sensoready^® pen is intended for self-administration of subcutaneous 20 mg ofatumumab at home. This human factors summative study assessed the usability of the Sensoready pen in relapsing multiple sclerosis patients. Methods: 32 patients (injection-experienced [n = 17] and injection-naive [n = 15]) across five locations in the USA were asked to complete two simulated injections using the Sensoready pen. Results: In the first and second simulated injections, 90.6 and 96.9% of patients, respectively, successfully delivered a full dose, while 81.3 and 84.4%, respectively, successfully performed the injection without any use errors. Conclusion: The Sensoready pen is safe and effective for its intended use by intended users and in the intended use environment. This pen has a low harm potential and high injection success rate in patients, even without prior training or experience.

Patient and nurse preference for Sensoready autoinjector pen versus other autoinjectors in multiple sclerosis: results from a pilot multicenter survey

BACKGROUND

Sensoready® autoinjector pen facilitates self-administration of subcutaneous ofatumumab injections at home. We aim to investigate patient and nurse preference for using Sensoready® versus comparator autoinjectors in multiple sclerosis (MS).

METHODS

A pilot survey was conducted in Germany followed by in-field interviews across United States, Germany, France, and Italy. The survey recruited 80 MS patients and 50 MS nurses. Respondents were interviewed for 45-min on qualitative open-ended and quantitative close-ended survey consisting of 31 questions for patients and 41 for nurses. Ratings were measured on Likert scale from 1 (not at all important) to 10 (extremely important).

RESULTS

"Easy to perform self-injection with the pen" and "Patient able to use independently" (both, mean overall score 9.4) were the most important attributes for both patients and nurses. Sensoready® scored high across most important attributes for both patients and nurses (p < 0.05). Sensoready® was preferred over comparator devices across majority of the important attributes (84%; p < 0.05), especially ease of use of the pen (mean overall score 9.4). Sensoready® was preferred over their current device by 9/10 nurses and 8/10 patients if they had to choose a treatment based on the device alone.

CONCLUSION

Both MS patients and nurses preferred the Sensoready® (ofatumumab) over comparator autoinjectors for their treatment, mostly driven by ease of administration.

Patients with multiple sclerosis choose a collaborative role in making treatment decision: results from the Italian multicenter SWITCH study

BACKGROUND

Clinicians are increasingly recognizing the importance of shared decision-making in complex treatment choices, highlighting the importance of the patient's rationale and motivation for switching therapies. This study aimed to evaluate the association between different modalities of changing multiple sclerosis (MS) treatments, cognitive profile and attitude and preferences of patients concerning treatment choice.

METHODS

This multicenter cross-sectional study was conducted at 28 Italian MS centers in the period between June 2016 and June 2017. We screened all MS patients treated with any DMT, with a treatment compliance of at least 80% of therapy administered during the 3 last months who needed to modify MS therapy because of efficacy, safety or other reasons during a follow-up visit. At the time of switching the symbol digit modalities test (SDMT) and the Control Preference Scale (CPS) were evaluated. According to the CPS, patients were classified as "active" (i.e. who prefer making the medical decision themselves), "collaborative" (i.e. who prefer decisions be made jointly with the physician), or "passive" (i.e. who prefer the physician make the decision).

RESULTS

Out of 13,657 patients recorded in the log, 409 (3%) changed therapy. Of these, 336 (2.5%) patients, 69.6% were female and with mean age 40.6 ± 10.5 years, were enrolled. According to the CPS score evaluation, a significant high percentage of patients (51.1%) were considered collaborative, 74 patients (22.5%) were passive, and 60 (18.2%) patients were active. Stratifying according to CPS results, we found a higher SDMT score among collaborative patients compared to active and passive ones (45.8 ± 12.3 versus 41.0 ± 13.2 versus 41.7 ± 12.8, p < 0.05).

CONCLUSION

In this study, the CPS evaluation showed that more than 50% of patients who needed to change therapy chose a "collaborative" role in making treatment decision. Cognitive profile with SDMT seems to correlate with patients' preference on treatment decision, showing better scores in collaborative patients.

A Prospective, Observational, Multicenter Study Assessing Adherence to Interferon Beta-1b Therapy and Patient Satisfaction Using the BETACONNECT Auto-Injector

Introduction

It is important to achieve good persistence and adherence to disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) to achieve the best outcomes in chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS). The BETACONNECT device is an electronic auto-injector for the DMT interferon beta-1b (Betaseron), designed to improve patients’ injection experience and to monitor adherence. This observational study aimed to assess patient adherence to and persistence with interferon beta-1b therapy as well as patient-reported satisfaction in a US population.

Methods

A prospective, observational, multicenter study was conducted in 146 adult patients with relapsing–remitting MS or clinically isolated syndrome, newly prescribed or currently established on interferon beta-1b therapy and naïve to the BETACONNECT device, and followed up during a 6-month observation period.

Results

Among the 91 patients who completed the study, the overall mean adherence rate was 82.5%, with 65.9% of patients adherent for at least 80% for the duration of the 6-month period. At 6 months, 98.9% of patients had less than a 60-day gap in therapy. Of the 115 patients who provided satisfaction data, 90.5% of patients were either very satisfied or satisfied with the BETACONNECT device.

Conclusion

This study shows that the BETACONNECT device was associated with high adherence to interferon beta-1b therapy in patients with MS. Patients also reported high degrees of satisfaction with the device. Therefore, this may be a viable delivery option to help with adherence and persistence, potentially leading to improved clinical outcomes.

Supplementary Information

The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40120-022-00323-1.

Autoinjector - A smart device for emergency cum personal therapy

Autoinjectors are self-injectable devices; they are important class of medical devices which can deliver drugs through subcutaneous or intramuscular route. They enclose prefilled syringes or cartridges which are driven by a spring system. The major benefits of this device are easy self-administration, improved patient compliance, reduced anxiety, and dosage accuracy. Immediate treatment during emergency conditions such as anaphylaxis, migraine, and status epilepticus or for chronic conditions like psoriasis, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, and rheumatoid arthritis, Reformulation of first-generation biologics, technical advancements, innovative designs, patient compliance, overwhelming interest for self-administration all these made entry of more and more autoinjectors into use. In this review, intensive efforts have been made for exploring the different types of currently available autoinjectors for the management of emergency and chronic diseases.

Payer Perspectives on Intravenous versus Subcutaneous Administration of Drugs

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has brought increased attention to vulnerable populations such as older or immunocompromised patients and heightened the focus on alternatives to intravenous (IV) formulations, particularly those that may be administered in a non-clinical setting. Among these alternative formulations are subcutaneous (SC) injections, which comprise an increasing share of commercialized and pipeline therapies. While much has been published about the benefits and limitations of IV versus SC administration to patients and health systems, less attention has been given to payer considerations regarding these routes of administration. Accordingly, this article provides payer perspectives on some of the key differences between IV and SC administration as they relate to management and billing, cost, treatment adherence and safety, and patient preference and quality of life. The benefits and limitations of these drug administration routes to key healthcare stakeholders—namely patients, physicians, and payers—are also discussed. Considerations of relevance are highlighted, including the potential for misalignment of stakeholder interests and countervailing factors that may impact decision-making about IV and SC formulations.

Real-World Assessment of Interferon-β-1b and Interferon-β-1a Adherence Before and After the Introduction of the BETACONNECT® Autoinjector: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

Both interferon beta-1b (IFN-β-1b) and interferon beta-1a (IFN-β-1a) are immunomodulators that require regular subcutaneous self-administration by patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). However, no electronic autoinjector is available for IFN-β-1a in the US.

OBJECTIVE

This retrospective cohort study investigated adherence to two subcutaneous disease-modifying therapies, IFN-β-1b and IFN-β-1a, during two periods (before and after the introduction of the BETACONNECT® autoinjector for IFN-β-1b).

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Data were evaluated from the MarketScan database for adults in the US with an MS diagnosis and a medical claim for subcutaneous IFN-β-1b or IFN-β-1a, either before (October 2013-September 2015) or after the introduction of BETACONNECT (October 2016-September 2018). Patient populations were propensity-score matched by demographic and clinical characteristics. Persistence was recorded, and adherence was evaluated by medication possession ratio (MPR).

RESULTS

The study included 196 IFN-β-1b and 365 IFN-β-1a people with MS (PwMS) (pre-BETACONNECT period), and 126 IFN-β-1b and 223 IFN-β-1a PwMS (post-BETACONNECT period). In the pre-BETACONNECT period, the proportion with at least 80% MPR was higher for IFN-β-1a (90%) than for IFN-β-1b (83%), but in the post-BETACONNECT period the proportion with ≥ 80% MPR was higher for IFN-β-1b (92%) than for IFN-β-1a (86%). In the pre-BETACONNECT period, median persistence (in days) was higher for IFN-β-1a (199) than for IFN-β-1b (152), while in post-BETACONNECT period persistence was higher for IFN-β-1b (327) than for IFN-β-1a (229).

CONCLUSIONS

Following the introduction of BETACONNECT, this exploratory study suggested that PwMS taking IFN-β-1b were more adherent compared with those taking IFN-β-1a, with higher persistence, and more than 90% reached 80% MPR, a threshold commonly used to define good adherence.

Clinical characteristics of middle-aged and older patients with MS treated with interferon beta-1b: post-hoc analysis of a 2-year, prospective, international, observational study

Background

Despite trends towards the increased age of patients living with multiple sclerosis (MS), little is known about the response of older adults with MS to disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). Thus, a post-hoc analysis was undertaken using data from a 2-year, international, non-interventional, prospective cohort study (NCT00787657; BEACON: BEtaferon prospective study on Adherence, COping and Nurse support) of patients above the age of 40 years with MS and starting interferon beta-1b (IFNB-1b) treatment within 6 months before study entry.

Methods

Middle-aged and older patients with MS were divided into two sub-groups: 41–50 years and > 50 years. Treatment with IFNB-1b started within 6 months before study entry. Patients were followed-up for a 2-year observation period. Assessments included disease history and course, annualised relapse rate (ARR), Expanded Disability Scale Score (EDSS), treatment adherence, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale (HADS), and adverse events (AE).

Results

At baseline, the intention-to-treat (ITT) population (n = 481) aged 41–50 years (n = 327) and > 50 years (n = 154), had mean (standard deviation [SD]) ages of 45.1 (2.8) and 56.2 (4.2) years, maximum age of 72 years, and duration of MS since onset of symptoms of 3.9 (5.2) and 5.9 (7.1) years, respectively. At baseline, the proportion of patients with relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS) was 96.3 and 94.9 %, and secondary progressive MS (SPMS) was 3.7 and 5.1 %, in the 41–50 and > 50 years sub-groups, respectively. The ARR in the 2 years before study start was 0.93 (0.48) and 0.86 (0.54) for the 41–50 and > 50 years groups, respectively, and decreased since study start to 0.20 (1.09) and 0.07 (0.37), respectively. The percentage of patients with anxiety and depression, as measured by HADS, were stable over the study period. Polypharmacy (five or more medications) was seen in 32.3 and 41.2 % of patients aged 41–50 and > 50 years. No unexpected AEs were reported.

Conclusions

This study provides observational data on patients between 40 and 72 years of age, suggesting that IFNB-1b can be an effective and well-tolerated treatment option in MS patients of advanced age.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT00787657.

Electronic pill bottles to monitor and promote medication adherence for people with multiple sclerosis: A randomized, virtual clinical trial

OBJECTIVE

We perform a randomized trial to test the impact of electronic pill bottles with audiovisual reminders on oral disease modifying therapy (DMT) adherence in people with MS (PwMS).

METHODS

Adults with multiple sclerosis (MS) taking an oral DMT were randomized 1:1 for 90 days to remote smartphone app- and pill bottle-based (a) adherence monitoring, or (b) adherence monitoring with audiovisual medication reminders. Optimal adherence was defined as the proportion of doses taken ±3 h of the scheduled time. Numbers of missed pills and pills taken early, on time, late, and extra were recorded. A multivariable regression model tested possible associations between optimal adherence and age, MS duration, cognitive functioning, and number of daily prescription pills.

RESULTS

85 participants (66 female; mean age 44.9 years) took dimethyl/diroximel fumarate (n = 49), fingolimod (n = 26), or teriflunomide (n = 10). Optimal adherence was on average higher in the monitoring with reminders arm (71.4%) than the monitoring only arm (61.6%; p = 0.033). In a multivariable model, optimal adherence was less likely in younger participants (p < 0.001) and those taking more daily prescription pills (p < 0.001). In the monitoring only arm, 4.0% of doses were taken early, 61.6% on time, 5.6% late, 4.4% in excess, and 24.4% were missed. In the reminders arm, these proportions were 3.4%, 71.4%, 3.7%, 8.7%, and 12.8%, respectively.

CONCLUSION

We map real-world oral DMT adherence patterns using mHealth technology. PwMS who received medication reminders had higher optimal adherence. Nonadherence was more nuanced than simply missing pills. Developing strategies to improve adherence remains important in longitudinal MS care.

Type 1 interferon mediates chronic stress-induced neuroinflammation and behavioral deficits via complement component 3-dependent pathway

Chronic stress is a major risk factor in the pathophysiology of many neuropsychiatric disorders. Further, chronic stress conditions can promote neuroinflammation and inflammatory responses in both humans and animal models. Type I interferons (IFN-I) are critical mediators of the inflammatory response in the periphery and responsible for the altered mood and behavior. However, the underlying mechanisms are not well understood. In the present study, we investigated the role of IFN-I signaling in chronic stress-induced changes in neuroinflammation and behavior. Using the chronic restraint stress model, we found that chronic stress induces a significant increase in serum IFNβ levels in mice, and systemic blockade of IFN-I signaling attenuated chronic stress-induced infiltration of macrophages into prefrontal cortex and behavioral abnormalities. Furthermore, complement component 3 (C3) mediates systemic IFNβ-induced changes in neuroinflammation and behavior. Also, we found significant increases in the mRNA expression levels of IFN-I stimulated genes in the prefrontal cortex of depressed suicide subjects and significant correlation with C3 and inflammatory markers. Together, these findings from animal and human postmortem brain studies identify a crucial role of C3 in IFN-I-mediated changes in neuroinflammation and behavior under chronic stress conditions.

Usage trend of oral drugs for multiple sclerosis patients in Argentina

INTRODUCTION

Over the past decade, numerous disease modifying drugs (DMDs) for relapsing- remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) have been approved in Argentina. The use of oral DMDs (oDMDs) has increased in recent years, although real-life data in our region is limited. We aimed to describe the tendency in the use of oDMDs (as first treatment option or after switch) in relationship with their approval in Argentina.

METHODS

A retrospective study in a cohort of MS patients from five Argentinian MS centers was conducted. Regarding the availability of different oDMDs in Argentina, we define three periods (P1-3): P1: 2012 - 2014; P2: 2015 - 2017 and P3: 2018 - 2020. An analysis was performed comparing between these three periods to assess the tendency for oDMDs use over time.

RESULT

The most frequently prescribed treatment as first DMD was: interferon beta 1a (40%) in P1, fingolimod (37.3%) in P2 and also fingolimod (35%) in P3. We found an increase in the use of oDMTs as initial treatment over time (P1: 17.7%, P2: 63.9% and P3: 65.0%; Chi-square = 41.9 p <0.01). We also found a tendency to increase the use of oDMTs after a first switch (P1: 45.5%, P2: 60.1% and P3 78.3%). Multivariate analysis showed that disease evolution (OR=1.06, p=0.04), and year of treatment initiation (OR=1.01 p<0.01) were independently associated with choice of oDMTs.

CONCLUSION

This study identified an increasing tendency for the use of oDMDs as initial treatment of RMS in relationship with their approval in Argentina.

BetaEval Global: Prospective, Multinational, Observational Cohort Study of Patients Using BETACONNECT®

PURPOSE

Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) would benefit from continued long-term treatment with disease-modifying therapies, and autoinjectors may help improve patients' satisfaction with therapy, thereby increasing adherence rates. BETACONNECT® is an autoinjector for interferon beta-1b designed to improve the injection experience for patients. The BetaEval Global study assessed medication intake in patients using BETACONNECT to further investigate the value of this autoinjector.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

The BetaEval Global study was a prospective, non-interventional cohort study across multiple European countries in patients with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) or clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) who were starting interferon beta-1b treatment. The decision to administer interferon beta-1b was made independently of the study. Patients were assessed at the initial visits and planned follow-up visits at Weeks 4, 12, and 24. The primary outcome variable was compliance with therapy based on the medication possession ratio (MPR). Injections were automatically recorded by the BETACONNECT device or, in some instances, self-reported by the patients. This allowed for a complete dataset that could be used in the calculation of the MPR.

RESULTS

Four hundred ninety-eight patients were enrolled and completed 93.9%, 95.2%, and 95.4% of prescribed injections at Weeks 4, 12, and 24, respectively. Similarly, 76.4% (n=318), 76.6% (n=297), and 81.1% (n=284) of patients completed at least 80% of their prescribed injections. Median scores assessing patient satisfaction with the autoinjector were consistently high across the study.

CONCLUSION

Overall, the results from BetaEval Global demonstrated that in this cohort of patients with RRMS or CIS on interferon beta-1b, use of the BETACONNECT autoinjector was associated with high rates of compliance, adherence, and patient satisfaction.

Patient needs and preferences in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: A systematic review

BACKGROUND

Considering the multiple treatments approved for multiple sclerosis (MS) by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and European Medicines Agency (EMA), determining a treatment strategy for patients with clinically isolated syndrome (CIS) and relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) can be challenging. To date, an overview of the needs and preferences of patients at each treatment decision-making moment is lacking. Therefore, the aim of this systematic review is to examine the existing literature about the needs and preferences of patients with CIS and RRMS when making treatment decisions.

METHODS

A systematic search was done using Embase, Medline, PsychINFO, Web of Science and Google Scholar. Eligibility criteria included whether the article described a study of adults with CIS/RRMS and reported patient needs or preferences regarding first-line disease modifying treatment (DMT) decisions. Publications were categorized by treatment decision: initiation of first DMT (D1), DMT adherence/discontinuation (D2a/D2b), and switch to a second DMT (D3). A separate category was created for stated preference studies such as discrete choice experiment methods to examine the relative importance of different treatment attributes. Publications were compared to identify key factors.

RESULTS

The search yielded 2789 articles after removal of duplicates and 434 full-text publications were reviewed for eligibility. Twenty-four articles fulfilled all criteria: n = 5 (D1), n = 12 (D2a), n = 13 (D2b), and n = 3 (D3); six articles studied more than one treatment decision. The need for social support is important during D1. The most commonly reported reasons for adherence/discontinuation/switch included forgetfulness, side-effects, and injection-related reasons. Eight articles described preference studies; the most important DMT attributes were efficacy, mode and frequency of administration, and side-effect profile.

CONCLUSIONS

Understanding the needs and preferences of CIS/RRMS patients regarding DMT attributes and non-treatment related attributes are important to improve treatment decision-making and reduce non-adherence. Studies are needed to understand patient preferences upon treatment initiation. Furthermore, preference studies should include attributes based on the patient perspective.

Polypharmacy in patients with multiple sclerosis: a gender-specific analysis

Background

Multiple sclerosis (MS) affects about three times more women than men. Due to variable MS courses, multiple therapies are necessary in clinical practice.

Objective

We aimed at conducting sex-specific analyses of MS patients regarding polypharmacy (≥ 5 drugs) and at identifying differences in the medication spectrum.

Methods

Clinico-demographic data were gathered from 306 patients using clinical examinations, structured patient interviews, and patient records. Statistical data analyses were performed to evaluate whether the same or different factors are associated with polypharmacy in both genders.

Results

Women (N = 218) and men (N = 88) showed similar polypharmacy rates (56.0% vs. 58.0%; p = 0.799). For both genders, higher age, severe disability degrees, comorbidities, and inpatient treatment were significantly associated with a higher polypharmacy risk. Low educational levels were predictors of polypharmacy only in women. Fampridine (p < 0.021) and antispasmodics (p < 0.010) were used more often by men, while women took more frequently thyroid medications (p < 0.001) and contraceptives (p < 0.001). The age-related increase in medication use was much stronger in women (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Male and female MS patients with older age, comorbidities, higher disability degree, and inpatient treatment are at greater risk of polypharmacy. Future studies should examine the occurrence of clinically relevant drug interactions in MS patients stratified by sex.

PatientConcept App: Key Characteristics, Implementation, and its Potential Benefit

Introduction

In addition to a wide range of disease-related burdens, patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) are challenged by long-term medication and complex disease management plans, often leading to decreased adherence. Earlier studies have indicated that patient support through intensified communication can positively impact adherence. During recent years, the use of mobile health applications has gained importance in patient communication and disease management.

Objective

Our objective was to describe a novel software application providing innovative features that engage patient–physician contact and to evaluate users’ acceptance.

Methods

A novel software application ensuring data security was developed. Various innovative modules have been implemented, enabling bidirectional communication between treating physicians and patients, supporting therapy monitoring and management, and allowing the collection of large sets of anonymous patient data. The currently conducted FASTER study will analyze the acceptance of patients and physicians using this novel application.

Results

PatientConcept is a free app available for download since 2016. Meanwhile, it has been successfully implemented. First preliminary results indicate high acceptance among users. The clinical benefit will have to be tested in larger patient populations.

Conclusion

This ID-associated application may provide a secure, feasible, and cost-optimized possibility to intensify and simplify the communication between patients and their treating physicians, thus promising an exceptional benefit to both.

Discontinuation of teriflunomide and dimethyl fumarate in a large Italian multicentre population: a 24-month real-world experience

BACKGROUND

Teriflunomide (TRF) and Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) are licensed drugs for relapsing-remitting Multiple Sclerosis (RRMS).

OBJECTIVES

We aimed to compare the rate and the time to discontinuation among persons with RRMS (pwRRMS), newly treated with TRF and DMF.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A retrospective study on prospectively collected data was performed in nine tertiary MS centers, in Italy. The 24-month discontinuation rate in the two cohorts was the primary study outcome. We also assessed the time to discontinuation and reasons of therapy withdrawn. Discontinuation of TRF and DMF was defined as a gap of treatment ≥ 60 days.

RESULTS

A cohort of 903 pwRRMS (316 on TRF and 587 on DMF) was analyzed. During 24 months of follow-up, pwRRMS on TRF and DMF showed similar discontinuation rates. The analysis of predictors with Cox regression model showed differences between the two groups (p for log-rank test = 0.007); male gender [HR 2.21 (1.00-4.90); p = 0.01] and the number of previous switches [HR 1.47 (1.16-1.86); p = 0.01] were associated with higher hazard of discontinuation in the DMF group.

CONCLUSIONS

In a real-world setting, pwRRMS on TRF and DMF had similar discontinuation rates over 24 months. Male pwRRMS on DMF with a previous history of therapeutic failure are at more risk of discontinuation therapy.

Intracerebral Hemorrhage in Multiple Sclerosis: A Retrospective Cohort Study

BACKGROUND

To identify the vascular risk factors associated with the occurrence of intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) patients.

METHODS

This is an observational, retrospective cohort study using the nationwide electronic medical records (EMR) database. Patients with the diagnosis of MS were extracted from inpatient and outpatient EMR using the international classification of diseases, ninth/tenth revisions, clinical modification codes. We excluded patients younger than 18 years, and those where gender was not specified. Patients were further stratified based on their demographics, risk factors, medications, and comorbidities. Tobacco, diabetes, hypertension, and alcohol were the predicting variables; antiplatelet medication, and anticoagulant agents were the primary exposures for the development of ICH. A validated diagnosis code algorithm defined the diagnosis of ICH. Multivariable logistic regression models were utilized to assess the risk of ICH in MS patients.

RESULTS

Of the total 57,099 MS patients (women: 75%, n = 41,517), 107 (.19%) sustained an ICH. Age (OR = 2.74, CI = 1.13-6.62), use of anticoagulants (OR = 2.15, 95% CI = 1.30-3.56, P = .0028), and history of tobacco exposure (OR = 2.44, CI = 1.37-4.36, P = .0025) were associated with increased risk of ICH. Use of antiplatelet and disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) showed a protective trend against ICH.

CONCLUSIONS

Tobacco exposure and anticoagulant use were strongly associated with increased risk of ICH in patients with MS. There might be a protective effect that antiplatelet and DMDs have in the pathophysiology of this disease. Further prospective investigations are warranted to establish these associations.

From Medical Prescription to Patient Compliance: A Qualitative Insight into the Neurologist-Patient Relationship in Multiple Sclerosis

Background

Approximately 12 disease-modifying treatments are available worldwide for patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis (MS). These recent therapeutic advances have led to major changes in patient and neurologist attitudes toward drug prescription. Herein, we aimed to characterize patient choice regarding treatment for MS and identify how neurologists assess and monitor patient compliance during follow-up.

Methods

In 29 patients with MS, we observed visits to their neurologist to understand how questions related to compliance were addressed in the doctor-patient relationship. Face-to-face interviews were conducted with 15 of the 29 patients to discuss how they dealt with their drug prescription from a patient-centered perspective.

Results

Of the 15 patients with MS, nine were offered a choice of treatment. However, we found that neurologists were not always willing to consider the patients' input. Even if physicians attempt to align treatment choice with patient preferences to ensure compliance, preferences are often assumed rather than solicited from patients. Furthermore, patients may be unwilling to make their own treatment decisions. Various ways for neurologists to assess compliance during visits were also identified. Noncompliance can be considered as a way for patients to communicate their preferences and demonstrate involvement in their drug therapy, and it can lead to a renegotiation of the current treatment course.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that the neurologist-patient relationship has a great influence on patient compliance throughout the MS disease course.

The BETACONNECT™ system: MS therapy goes digital

Adherence to long-term treatment in chronic diseases such as multiple sclerosis is challenging. Many disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) for MS need to be injected. Injection devices may improve satisfaction with the injection procedure and boost adherence. Meeting patients' needs in handling and design of autoinjectors and other supporting elements may be key to successful therapy. The BETACONNECT™ system is a platform-based approach in DMD therapy. It combines autoinjector technology with digital tools to support patient self-management and facilitate communication between patients and healthcare providers. Here, we describe the components of the BETACONNECT system and review data on patients' satisfaction with the BETACONNECT autoinjector and how it compares to other devices. Additionally, we present first data on patients' satisfaction with the myBETAapp™.

First-line disease-modifying drugs in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis: an Italian real-life multicenter study on persistence

OBJECTIVE

The introduction of oral disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) in addition to the available, injectable, ones for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) could be expected to improve medication persistence due to a greater acceptability of the route of administration. The aim of the study was to compare the proportion of patients discontinuing injectable DMDs (interferon beta 1a/1b, pegylated interferon, glatiramer acetate) with those discontinuing oral DMDs (dimethylfumarate and teriflunomide) during an observation period of at least 12 months. Secondary aims were to compare the time to discontinuation and the reasons for discontinuation between the two groups and to explore the demographic and clinical factors associated with DMD discontinuation.

METHODS

In this prospective, multi-center, real-life observational study, patients commencing any first-line DMD between 1 January 2015 and 31 July 2016 were enrolled and followed up for at least 12 months or until the drug was discontinued.

RESULTS

Of the 520 included patients, 262 (49.6%) started an injectable and 258 (50.4%) an oral DMD. There was no difference in the proportion of patients on oral (n = 62, 24%) or on injectable (n = 60, 23%) DMDs discontinuing treatment, the most frequent reason being adverse events/side-effects. Higher baseline Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) scores and younger age increased the odds of treatment withdrawal. Time to treatment discontinuation was not different between the two groups and was not influenced by the initiated DMD (oral versus injectable), even after adjustment for baseline differences.

CONCLUSION

The route of administration alone (i.e. oral versus injectable) was not a significant predictor of persistence with first-line DMDs in RRMS.

Real-life persistence and tolerability with dimethyl fumarate

BACKGROUND

Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) has been registered for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Differences in tolerability between multiple sclerosis clinics in patients treated with DMF has not been examined.

AIM

We examined real-world tolerability to DMF, and also compared adherence data between two MS clinics.

METHODS

Adverse events (AE), discontinuation rates, and causes of discontinuation were investigated.

RESULTS

253 patients participated in this retrospective study. In the total cohort, 27.7% of the patients discontinued DMF. Higher rate of discontinuation was associated with higher number of previous disease modifying treatments (p < 0.001). Reasons for discontinuation were primarily flushing (15%) and gastrointestinal AEs (51%). Grade III lymphopenia was detected only in 6 cases (2.4%). We observed differences between the two clinics: discontinuation because of AEs was different (Odds ratio 6.13, 95% CI: 3.0-12.7, p < 0.001), the mean treatment duration also differed (305.3 ± 186.3 vs 140.5 ± 114.4 days, p < 0.001), and dissimilarities in adherence were mainly related to flushing, gastrointestinal AEs, and consideration of lymphopenia (p < 0.0001). Better adherence was associated with prospectively planned management of gastrointestinal AEs and flushing.

CONCLUSION

Adherence in real-life was similar to pivotal trials. Differences in discontinuation rates at two MS clinics underline importance of AE management.

Shifting paradigms in multiple sclerosis: from disease-specific, through population-specific toward patient-specific

PURPOSE OF REVIEW

In recent years we notice paradigm shifts in the understanding of multiple sclerosis (MS), leading to important transition in the patients' management. This review discusses some of the recent findings and developments underlying the conceptual changes being translated from 'treating the disease' to 'treating the patient' with MS (PwMS).

RECENT FINDINGS

Applying advanced technologies combined with cross-disciplinary efforts in the fields of neuropathology, neuroimmunology, neurobiology, and neuroimaging, together with clinical neurology provided support for the notion that MS is not a single disease but rather a spectrum. Predictive markers of disease subtypes, disease activity and response to therapy are being developed; some already applied to practice, allowing informed management. In parallel, population-specific issues, some genetic-driven, others caused by environmental (sun-exposure, life-style, etc.), gender-related (hormones) and epigenetic factors, are being elucidated. Additionally, patient empowerment-based approaches, including integration of patient-reported outcome measures (PRO) as well as tools to enhance patients' adherence to medications, are being developed, some already provided as part of emerging mobile-health technologies.

SUMMARY

Developments in the MS field, elucidating disease subtypes and interpopulation diversities, together with integration of patient-centered approaches, allow transition toward precision medicine in MS clinical trials and patient care.

Adherence, satisfaction and functional health status among patients with multiple sclerosis using the BETACONNECT® autoinjector: a prospective observational cohort study

BACKGROUND

Maintaining patient adherence to disease modifying drugs in multiple sclerosis is a challenge, which can be improved by autoinjectors. The BETACONNECT® is a fully electronic autoinjector for the injection of interferon beta-1b (IFN beta-1b) automatically recording injections.

METHODS

The BETAEVAL study was a prospective, observational, cohort study over 24 weeks among patients with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis or clinically isolated syndrome treated with IFN beta-1b in Germany using the BETACONNECT®. The primary aim was to investigate treatment adherence, secondary aims included assessing satisfaction and functional health status. Adherence was evaluated from injection data recorded by the device. Patient-related data were obtained from clinical examinations and patient questionnaires.

RESULTS

Of the 151 patients enrolled, 143 were available for analysis. Thirty-four patients discontinued the study prematurely. 107/143 (74.8%) patients still used the BETACONNECT® at the end of the study. Injection data from the device at any visit was available for 107 patients. Among those, the percentage of adherent patients injecting ≥80% of doses and still participating in the study was 57.9% at week 24. 29% of patients prematurely stopped the study, 13.1% injected <80%. Among patients with BETACONNECT® data at the respective visit, the proportion of adherent patients was high over the entire study period (week 4: 81.1% [N = 95], week 12: 86.7% [N = 83], week 24: 80.5% [N = 77]). Participants (N = 143) indicated high satisfaction with the BETACONNECT®. At week 24, 98.0% of patients who completed the corresponding questionnaire (strongly) agreed that it was user-friendly, 81.2% felt confident in using it compared to their previous way and 85.5% preferred it to their previous way of injection. Injection-related pain was rated as mild to moderate at all follow-up visits. Whereas 17.2% of patients with corresponding questionnaire indicated using analgesics prior to injection at week 4, only 9.1% did at week 24. Outcomes from questionnaires assessing functional health status, depression, fatigue and cognitive function were very similar throughout the study course.

CONCLUSIONS

The majority of patients continued using the BETACONNECT® for IFN beta-1b treatment during the 24-week study period. Adherence was high among participants still using the BETACONNECT® and patients were highly satisfied with the device. Ongoing studies will evaluate long-term adherence and treatment outcomes in patients using the BETACONNECT®.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

clinicaltrails.gov NCT02121444 (registered April 22, 2014).

Patient satisfaction with ExtaviPro™ 30G, a new auto-injector for administering interferon β-1b in multiple sclerosis: results from a real-world, observational EXCHANGE study

Background

Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) receiving long-term, subcutaneous interferon β-1b (IFN β-1b; Extavia®) often experience injection-site reactions and injection-site pain, which together with other side-effects (such as flu-like symptoms) result in suboptimal treatment compliance/adherence. The EXCHANGE study evaluated patient satisfaction with IFN β-1b treatment, administered using ExtaviPro™ 30G, a new auto-injector, in a real-world setting.

Methods

This 26-week, open-label, prospective, non-interventional, observational, multi-country multi-centre study enrolled patients with MS who had been treated with IFN β-1b or other disease-modifying therapies with a self-administered auto-injector for ≥3 months and who were planned to switch to IFN β-1b treatment administered using ExtaviPro™ 30G as part of routine clinical care. Patient-reported outcomes included overall patient satisfaction (primary outcome) and satisfaction associated with treatment effectiveness, convenience and side-effects, assessed using Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (TSQM)-14. The changes in TSQM scores from baseline to Week 26 were reported. All data were analysed using SAS statistical software (version 9.4).

Results

Of the 336 patients enrolled, 324 were included in the analysis. At baseline, mean ± standard deviation (SD) age of patients was 41.8 ± 11.3 years and 68.2% were women. The mean ± SD of MS disease duration was 6.9 ± 6.6 years, and the majority of patients (94.1%) had relapsing-remitting MS. The mean ± SD of TSQM score for overall patient satisfaction at Week 26 was 75.6 ± 16.46 (baseline, 73.0 ± 17.14; p = 0.0342). The mean ± SD of TSQM subscale scores for patient satisfaction with effectiveness, side-effects and convenience were 75.0 ± 18.65 (baseline, 71.6 ± 19.45; p = 0.0356), 88.5 ± 18.98 (baseline, 82.7 ± 22.93; p = 0.0002) and 77.6 ± 16.72 (baseline, 71.1 ± 17.53; p < 0.0001), respectively.

Conclusion

The results from this real-world study suggest that administering IFN β-1b with the new ExtaviPro™ auto-injector significantly improves overall patient satisfaction, including satisfaction associated with effectiveness, side-effects and convenience in MS patients.

Baseline predictors of persistence to first disease-modifying treatment in multiple sclerosis

OBJECTIVES

Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) require lifelong therapy. However, success of disease-modifying therapies is dependent on patients' persistence and adherence to treatment schedules. In the setting of a large multicenter observational study, we aimed at assessing multiple parameters for their predictive power with respect to discontinuation of therapy.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

We analyzed 13 parameters to predict discontinuation of interferon beta-1b treatment during a 2-year follow-up period based on data from 395 patients with MS who were treatment-naïve at study onset. Besides clinical characteristics, patient-related psychosocial outcomes were assessed as well.

RESULTS

Among patients without clinically relevant fatigue, males showed a higher persistence rate than females (80.3% vs 64.7%). Clinically relevant fatigue scores decreased the persistence rate in men and especially in women (71.4% and 51.2%). Besides gender and fatigue, univariable and multivariable analyses revealed further factors associated with interferon beta-1b therapy discontinuation, namely lower quality of life, depressiveness, and higher relapse rate before therapy initiation, while higher education, living without a partner, and higher age improved persistence.

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with higher grades of fatigue and depressiveness are at higher risk to prematurely discontinue MS treatment; especially, women suffering from fatigue have an increased discontinuation rate.

Depression Treatment among Adults with Multiple Sclerosis and Depression in Ambulatory Care Settings in the United States

Background. There is little information regarding depression treatment patterns among adults with MS and depression in ambulatory settings at national level in the United States (US). Objectives. The objectives of this study were to identify patterns and predictors of depression treatment in ambulatory settings in US among adults with MS and depression. Methods. A cross-sectional study was conducted by pooling multiple years (2005–2011) of National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey and the outpatient department of the National Hospital Ambulatory Medical Care Survey data. The final study sample was comprised of ambulatory visits among adults with MS and depression. Dependent variable of this study was pharmacological treatment for depression with or without psychotherapy. Predictors of depression treatment were determined by conducting multivariable logistic regression. Results. Out of all ambulatory visits involving MS diagnosis, 20.59% also involved a depression diagnosis. Depression treatment was observed in 57.25% of the study population. Fluoxetine was the most prescribed individual antidepressant. Age and total number of chronic diseases were significant predictors of depression treatment. Conclusion. Approximately six out of ten ambulatory visits involving MS and depression recorded some form of depression treatment. Future longitudinal studies should examine health outcomes associated with depression treatment in this population.

Interferon-Related Depression: A Primer on Mechanisms, Treatment, and Prevention of a Common Clinical Problem

BACKGROUND

Depression is among the commonest of psychiatric disorders, and inflammatory mechanisms have been suggested to play a role in its pathophysiology. Interferons are a superfamily of proinflammatory cytokines that play a role in host defence mechanisms. Interferons are used in the treatment of a variety of autoimmune (e.g. multiple sclerosis), viral (e.g. chronic hepatitis B and C), and malignant (e.g. malignant melanoma, hairy cell leukemia) disorders; depression, however, is a notable and clinically troublesome adverse effect.

OBJECTIVE

This article seeks to present a simple explanation and update for the reader about what interferons are, how interferons are classified, the clinical conditions in which interferons are used, the occurrence of depression as a clinical adverse effect of interferon therapy, possible mechanisms that explain interferon-related depression, the treatment of interferon-related depression, and the prevention of interferon-related depression.

METHODS

A qualitative literature review is presented.

RESULTS AND CONCLUSIONS

Irrespective of the indication for IFN therapy, IFNs are associated with a 30- 70% risk of treatment-emergent depression. This risk could be due to the IFN, or to an interaction between the IFN and the indication for which it was prescribed. Various neurohormonal, neurochemical, neurohistological, and other mechanisms have been put forth to explain IFN-related depression. Prophylactic treatment with antidepressants reduces the risk of IFN-related depression; antidepressants also effectively treat the condition. Recent alternatives to IFNs have shown to decrease the risk of treatment-emergent depression.

Autoinjector preference among patients with multiple sclerosis: results from a national survey

PURPOSE

Autoinjectors are well-established in supporting multiple sclerosis (MS) therapy. This market survey was aimed at investigating patients' rating of three devices for subcutaneous interferon beta formulations: the electronic autoinjectors Betaconnect^® and RebiSmart™ as well as the mechanical ExtaviPro™ device.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Organization and conduction of structured face-to-face interviews in five German cities were managed through an independent external market research company. After questionnaire validation (n=15), 85 participants currently either using the Betaconnect (n=39), the RebiSmart (n=36) or the ExtaviPro injector (n=10) were asked 22 questions in the same order. First, patients named their current device in use, watched the corresponding instruction video, and were queried about their device. Second, patients were asked about their opinion of an ideal autoinjector. Third, instruction videos for the two non-used devices were presented and participants could dummy-inject into a pillow. Last, patients evaluated device features and indicated their preferred autoinjector.

RESULTS

Before having been presented the two other autoinjectors not in use, evaluation of patients' satisfaction with their own device revealed that 82% of the Betaconnect users, 67% of the RebiSmart and 60% of the ExtaviPro users were highly satisfied. All patients desired some improvement of their own device particularly concerning optimization of size and handling. Subsequent to testing and watching instruction videos of all devices, the Betaconnect received the best rating regarding different functions. Finally, participants indicated their preferred autoinjector, provided their own medication was suitable for all three devices: 56.5% of the participants (n=48/85) chose the Betaconnect, 36.5% the RebiSmart (n=31/85), and 5% the ExtaviPro device (n=4/85); 2% did not answer (n=2/85).

CONCLUSION

In this survey, the Betaconnect device was the preferred autoinjector and may currently best meet patients' needs. As it was closest to participants' opinion of an ideal device, the Betaconnect might contribute to treatment adherence. Our results need to be confirmed in further studies.

Patient adherence to subcutaneous IFN beta-1a injections using the RebiSmart® injection device: a retrospective real-world study among Dutch and German patients with multiple sclerosis

PURPOSE

Long-term treatment adherence among patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) is a general concern, with an established correlation with clinical efficacy. Closely monitoring patients' treatment behavior may have a beneficial effect on adherence. This study assessed adherence, in daily life, to subcutaneous (sc) IFN beta-1a, self-administered using the RebiSmart^® electronic injection device (the IFN beta-Ia autoinjector device), in patients with MS.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

This was a retrospective observational study analyzing treatment adherence based on injection data, eg, injection date and dose, extracted from the IFN beta-Ia autoinjector devices collected from patients in Germany and the Netherlands.

RESULTS

Data recorded in the period from 2007 to 2012 by the IFN beta-Ia autoinjector devices from 1,682 (79.7% from Germany, 20.3% from the Netherlands) patients were analyzed. A mean of 94.8% of the multi-dose cartridges (containing sc IFN beta-1a for three injections) were used completely, indicating a low incidence of application errors and drug wastage. The mean adherence rate was 90.7% and 82.9% over the entire observation period (mean treatment duration: 150.1 weeks). Median adherence rates were similar between German and Dutch patients (97.9% vs 99.0%).

CONCLUSION

In daily clinical practice, patients using the IFN beta-Ia autoinjector device were highly adherent to sc IFN beta-1a. The injection data stored electronically in the device may help patients to adhere to treatment regimens and, if viewed by physicians, promote discussion of adherence issues with patients.

Comparative evaluation of patients' and physicians' satisfaction with interferon beta-1b therapy

Background

Due to the preventive nature of disease-modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis, treatment success particularly depends on adherence to therapeutic regimens and patients’ perception of treatment efficacy. The latter is strongly influenced by the confidence in the involved health care professionals and the relationship to the treating physician.

Methods

In this report, we considered physicians’ and patients’ evaluation of satisfaction with interferon beta-1b treatment efficacy for assessing the congruence in ratings. Data were queried in a study conducted between 2009 and 2013.

Results

After 6 months of therapy, > 80 % of the patients and physicians (N = 445) showed high degrees of satisfaction regarding interferon beta-1b treatment, with only few physicians and patients (≤2.0 %) rating “not satisfied”. The proportion of patients rating with the same category as their physicians was similar after 6 months (47 % congruence) and at the 24 months/study end visit (49 %). Discrepancies between ratings were observed with respect to study end: for patients with premature study end, more patients and physicians rated being not satisfied with the therapy, accompanied by a considerably lower congruence of 33 % compared to 54 % for patients receiving the therapy for at least 2 years and completing the study regularly.

Conclusions

Regular communication between physicians and patients about their perception of therapy might improve alignment of treatment evaluation and could result in increased therapy persistence. In addition, patients’ willingness to perform a long-term therapy − even in the absence of disease symptoms − might be promoted by repeated exchange between health care providers and patients with regard to realistic treatment expectations.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov NCT00902135 (registered May 13, 2009).

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1186/s12883-016-0705-1) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

Patients’ satisfaction with and views about treatment with disease-modifying drugs in multiple sclerosis

ABSTRACT Objective The treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) with disease-modifying-drugs (DMDs) is evolving and new drugs are reaching the market. Efficacy and safety aspects of the drugs are crucial, but the patients’ satisfaction with the treatment must be taken into consideration. Methods Individual interview with patients with MS regarding their satisfaction and points of view on the treatment with DMDs. Results One hundred and twenty eight patients attending specialized MS Units in five different cities were interviewed. Over 80% of patients were very satisfied with the drugs in use regarding convenience and perceived benefits. The only aspect scoring lesser values was tolerability. Conclusion Parameters for improving treatment in MS must include efficacy, safety, and patient satisfaction with the given DMD.

Survey of US Patients with Multiple Sclerosis: Comparison of the New Electronic Interferon Beta-1b Autoinjector (BETACONNECT™) With Mechanical Autoinjectors

INTRODUCTION

Patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) generally undergo long-term treatment with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). In the US, patients taking glatiramer acetate, interferon beta-1a, or interferon beta-1b, typically use a mechanical autoinjector. Recent survey results have shown that using an electronic autoinjector, such as BETACONNECT™ (Bayer Pharma AG) for interferon beta-1b/Betaseron^® (Bayer Pharma AG) may reduce injection discomfort and increase patient satisfaction with treatment. The aim of the current survey was to assess patient perceptions of BETACONNECT compared with mechanical autoinjectors using a survey integrated with demonstrations and simulated injections with BETACONNECT.

METHODS

Patients with MS currently using mechanical autoinjectors for glatiramer acetate/Copaxone^® (Teva Pharmaceuticals USA, Inc.), interferon beta-1a/Rebif^® (EMD Serono Inc.), or interferon beta-1b/Extavia^® (Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp.), participated in a 60-min in-person interview. Patients rated the importance of 18 ideal autoinjector attributes, and the performance of their current autoinjectors across these attributes. BETACONNECT was demonstrated and patients performed simulated injections with BETACONNECT before rating it across the same attributes. Patient overall autoinjector preference was assessed.

RESULTS

Ninety patients completed the survey: 63 were using autoinjectors for Copaxone, 25 for Rebif, and 2 for Extavia. BETACONNECT scored higher than mechanical autoinjectors across all 18 attributes. The top attributes of an ideal autoinjector were the injection process is easy overall, easy to push the button to start the injection, and autoinjector is comfortable to hold during injections. Unique BETACONNECT features most valued by patients were the built-in dwell time, self-check function, greater ability to customize injections, adjustment of injection speed, low injection noise, and automatic needle retraction. Overall, 75 out of 90 patients (83%) expressed a preference for BETACONNECT over their current autoinjector.

CONCLUSION

BETACONNECT attributes and features were highly rated by patients, compared with both an ideal autoinjector and their current mechanical autoinjectors. These findings suggest that the use of BETACONNECT may increase patient satisfaction and potentially increase overall medication adherence.

FUNDING

Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals.

Adherence to Long-Term Interferon Beta-1b Injection Therapy in Patients with Multiple Sclerosis Using an Electronic Diary

INTRODUCTION

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory disease of the central nervous system requiring long-term treatment, which is often hampered by non-adherence to self-applicable therapies, provoking continued disease activity and health care system burdens. This study assessed the influence of a personal digital assistant (PDA) with diary function (n = 339 patients) on persistence and adherence to an interferon beta treatment regimen in comparison to a paper patient diary (n = 330 patients).

METHODS

Patients who recently started with subcutaneous injections of interferon beta-1b were recruited in this prospective, non-interventional, national cohort study for an observational period of 2 years after successful completion of the initial dose escalation.

RESULTS

Therapy persistence as assessed by the drop-out rate within 104 weeks was about 50% in both study cohorts. In male patients, the drop-out rate was 10% lower when using a PDA compared to the non-PDA group. Use of a PDA with an injection reminder function increased adherence to the injection schedule (every other day) by a mean of 24.5 injections over 24 months in comparison to use of a PDA without injection reminder function.

CONCLUSION

Persistence in this study was in the published range of observational MS studies. Furthermore, in male patients continuation of therapy might be positively influenced by use of a PDA, and both female and male patients might benefit from an integrated reminder function. In conclusion, electronic diaries reminding patients of upcoming injections can promote an improved adherence to MS therapy.

TRIAL REGISTRATION

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT00902135.

FUNDING

Bayer Vital GmbH.

Long-term adherence of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis to subcutaneous self-injections of interferon β-1a using an electronic device: the RIVER study

OBJECTIVES

The BRIDGE study has previously shown a high short-term (12 weeks) adherence rate (>85%) of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) to subcutaneous self-injections of interferon β-1a using an electronic auto-injection device (RebiSmart®). The primary goal of the RIVER study was to investigate in a real-life setting the long-term adherence to the use of RebiSmart among patients enrolled in the parent BRIDGE study.

METHODS

The RIVER study was designed as a real-life extension study of the BRIDGE trial. RRMS patients who completed BRIDGE and still had an indication for treatment were included. Data were collected prospectively through the RebiSmart device, and analyzed retrospectively. Long term adherence (administration of ≥ 80% of injections) to and safety of RebiSmart were assessed. The expected follow-up period ranged from 19 to 26 months.

RESULTS

A total of 57 RRMS patients participated in the follow-up study. The mean observation period was 20.5 ± 5.7 months. The overall adherence to the use of RebiSmart in the entire study cohort was 79.8% (median = 85.2%, range = 16-100%). There were 36 patients (63.2%) who completed at least 80% of the scheduled injections. No statistically significant differences were found between adherent and non-adherent patients in terms of age, sex, duration of the observation period, and occurrence of relapses. No serious treatment-related adverse events occurred.

CONCLUSIONS

This study showed a high level of long-term adherence to the use of RebiSmart, with 63.2% of participants meeting the criterion for adherence to treatment.

Patient Satisfaction with the New Interferon Beta-1b Autoinjector (BETACONNECT™)

Introduction

Multiple sclerosis (MS) typically requires life-long management with disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). Many DMTs require regular self-injection, and can be associated with injection site reactions, pain, and needle/injection phobia—but these can be addressed by improvements in autoinjector design. The aim of this study was to investigate patient satisfaction and preference for BETACONNECT™ (Bayer Pharma AG), a novel interferon beta-1b autoinjector.

Methods

Patients in Germany performing self-injections using BETACONNECT took part in the study. Data were collected through an online 15-min structured survey. Participants rated their experience with BETACONNECT on a 6-point scale and those satisfied with BETACONNECT were asked to describe the reason using a free-text box.

Results

One-hundred and eighteen patients with MS completed the survey. Ninety percent preferred BETACONNECT to their previous injection method (only 4% previously used manual injections, so most had previously used other autoinjectors). Ninety-two percent were very confident/confident in their ability to perform an injection using BETACONNECT. The most common free-text responses to “Why are you satisfied with the BETACONNECT™ autoinjector?” were ease of use (46%), less irritation/pain at the injection site (33%), and smoother injections (24%). Features considered most useful were automated injections (98%), adjustable injection speed (98%), and adjustable injection depth (98%). Ninety-seven percent thought it was easy to know when an injection was complete and 95% agreed/strongly agreed it was easy to learn to use the autoinjector. Seventy-three percent agreed that the quietness and effortlessness of the BETACONNECT reduced their level of injection anxiety, 92% that its size and shape makes it easy to handle during injections, and 67% that it decreases injection site pain. Eighty percent of those using the reminder function thought they were less likely to miss an injection.

Conclusion

Patients with MS self-injecting interferon beta-1b expressed a high level of satisfaction and preference for BETACONNECT. Thus, BETACONNECT represents a valid option to improve patients’ overall injection experience.

Funding

Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals.

Electronic supplementary material

The online version of this article (doi:10.1007/s40120-015-0036-y) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.

How many injections did you miss last month? A simple question to predict interferon β-1a adherence in multiple sclerosis

OBJECTIVES

Adherence to treatment is of utmost importance in multiple sclerosis (MS) to achieve full benefits from disease-modifying treatments. Thus, we investigated predictors of adherence to interferon β-1a.

METHODS

114 relapsing-remitting MS subjects were recruited and followed-up during 1.536 ± 0.961 years. RebiSmart® (Ares Trading SA, Coinsins, Switzerland), an electronic auto-injector, allows real-time recording of adherence which was retrospectively evaluated, and subjects were categorized accordingly: fully adherent (if no doses were missed), early or late missing (if missing the first dose during the first month of observation or later). The occurrence of clinical relapses and the annualized relapse rate (ARR) were prospectively recorded.

RESULTS

Adherence was 95.0 ± 9.0%. Early missing (n = 17, 14.9%) was more likely to be associated with the occurrence of a clinical relapse (OR = 4.155; p = 0.018), but not late missing (n = 54, 47.4%) (OR = 1.454; p = 0.408), as compared to fully adherent (n = 43, 37.7%). Adherence was lower in early missing, as compared to late missing (p < 0.001). The ARR was higher in early missing, as compared to late missing and to fully adherent (p < 0.001).

CONCLUSION

MS subjects missing an injection early presented lower adherence, and a fourfold chance of having a relapse, suggesting a simple way to assess and categorize adherence in a clinical, real-life setting, where lack of time often prevents more thorough evaluations.

Treatment strategies for multiple sclerosis: When to start, when to change, when to stop?

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic inflammatory condition of the central nervous system determined by a presumed autoimmune process mainly directed against myelin components but also involving axons and neurons. Acute demyelination shows as clinical relapses that may fully or partially resolve, while chronic demyelination and neuroaxonal injury lead to persistent and irreversible neurological symptoms, often progressing over time. Currently approved disease-modifying therapies are immunomodulatory or immunosuppressive drugs that significantly although variably reduce the frequency of attacks of the relapsing forms of the disease. However, they have limited efficacy in preventing the transition to the progressive phase of MS and are of no benefit after it has started. It is therefore likely that the potential advantage of a given treatment is condensed in a relatively limited window of opportunity for each patient, depending on individual characteristics and disease stage, most frequently but not necessarily in the early phase of the disease. In addition, a sizable proportion of patients with MS may have a very mild clinical course not requiring a disease-modifying therapy. Finally, individual response to existing therapies for MS varies significantly across subjects and the risk of serious adverse events remains an issue, particularly for the newest agents. The present review is aimed at critically describing current treatment strategies for MS with a particular focus on the decision of starting, switching and stopping commercially available immunomodulatory and immunosuppressive therapies.

Patient satisfaction with the BETACONNECT™ autoinjector for interferon beta-1b

PURPOSE

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic demyelinating, degenerative disease requiring long-term treatment. Patient adherence to treatment may be challenging in such scenarios, especially since treatment often involves self-injection, for example, with interferon beta-1b during therapy. BETACONNECT™ is a novel electronic autoinjector for patient support in interferon beta-1b administration. The purpose of this survey was to assess patient satisfaction with the BETACONNECT™ device and its features.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 2,299 MS patients using the BETACONNECT™ device were asked to participate in a survey in October 2014. All of these candidates participated in the BETAPLUS(®) program and had provided written informed consent. The participants were asked to answer 13 device-related questions.

RESULTS

Of these candidates, 1,365 replied to the questionnaire, with more than 60% of the participants being 40-59 years of age. Among them, 69% were women and 21% were men (10% not specified). Approximately half of the participants received treatment with interferon beta-1b for more than 5 years. Most participants (85%) had used self-injection devices before, with 59% previously using BETACOMFORT(®), 23% using BETAJECT(®) Comfort, and 3% using BETAJECT(®) Lite, while less than 4% manually injected interferon beta-1b. The majority of the participants had received the BETACONNECT™ device from a BETAPLUS(®) nurse (87%) and 48% had already used the device for more than 2 months (49% for 2 months or less). Among the participants, more than 90% evaluated the BETACONNECT™ device as "very helpful" or "helpful" in supporting their interferon beta-1b therapy with only marginal sex differences. Features that were rated "very important" by more than half of the participants included adjustability of injection speed and depth, contact sensor for avoidance of unintentional release, optical and acoustic signals, and rechargeable battery.

CONCLUSION

The vast majority of patients rated the BETACONNECT™ device as very helpful or helpful for their treatment with interferon beta-1b, and many considered most features as "very important". In conclusion, usage of the BETACONNECT™ autoinjector may facilitate interferon beta-1b therapy and support adherence to long-term therapeutic regimen.

Treatment adherence in multiple sclerosis: a survey of Belgian neurologists

BACKGROUND

Poor treatment adherence is common among patients with multiple sclerosis (MS). This survey evaluated neurologists' perception of treatment adherence among MS patients.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This questionnaire-based survey of Belgian neurologists treating MS patients was conducted between June and July 2014. Face-to-face interviews with the neurologists were based on a semistructured questionnaire containing questions regarding the perception of the treatment-adherence level.

RESULTS

A total of 41 neurologists participated in the survey. Of these, 88% indicated frequent discussions about treatment adherence as beneficial for treatment efficacy. The mean time spent on the treatment-adherence discussion during the initial consultation was 11 minutes, with 24% of doctors spending 5 minutes and 24% of doctors spending 10 minutes discussing this issue. The majority of neurologists (56%) perceived the adherence level in MS as good, and 12% perceived it as excellent. The majority of neurologists (64%) indicated intolerance as a main cause of poor adherence, and all neurologists reported insufficient efficacy as a consequence of nonadherence. The importance of adherence in the neurologists' practice was evaluated on a scale of 1-10, with 1= "not very important" and 10= "very important": 44% of doctors indicated a score of 10, and the mean score was 9.0.

CONCLUSION

Belgian neurologists consider treatment adherence in MS as essential for the benefits of therapies. However, although neurologists are aware of the consequences of nonadherence, they generally spend limited time discussing the importance of treatment adherence with their patients.