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Abdelmoity AT, Le Pichon J, Abdelmoity SA, Sherman AK, Hall AS, Abdelmoity AT. Combined use of the ketogenic diet and vagus nerve stimulation in pediatric drug-resistant epilepsy. Epilepsia Open 2021; 6:112-119. [PMID: 33681654 PMCID: PMC7918318 DOI: 10.1002/epi4.12453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/25/2020] [Revised: 11/12/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective Patients with drug-resistant epilepsy (DRE) pose considerable management challenges for patients, their families, and providers. Both the vagus nerve stimulator (VNS) and the ketogenic diet (KD) have been shown to be safe and effective in treating DRE. Nevertheless, information is lacking regarding treatment with combination of both modalities. This study reports the efficacy and tolerability of combining VNS and KD in a pediatric cohort with intractable epilepsy. Methods This is a retrospective review of 33 patients (0-17 years) with DRE treated with VNS and KD at a single pediatric level IV epilepsy center. We compared seizure reduction rates for each patient at baseline and at every clinic visit for 24 months after adding the second nonpharmacological therapy. The frequency of adverse events on the combined therapy was collected to assess safety and tolerability. Results There were a total of 170 visits for all patients while on the combined therapy. At 88% (95% CI: 83%-93%) of the visits, patients reported some reduction in seizure frequency. The proportion of patients reporting a greater than 50% seizure reduction over all visits was 62% (95% CI: 55%-69%). The proportion of a patient's visits with at least a greater than 50% reduction in seizure frequency had a median of 71% (IQR 33%-100%). Continued improvement was seen over time of combined treatment; for every one-unit time unit change (one month), there was a 6% increase in the odds of having a reduction in seizure frequency of >50% (OR = 1.06, 95% CI: 1.01-1.11). Significance This study shows that combining the VNS and KD in patients with drug-resistant epilepsy is well tolerated and reduces seizure frequency more than either one modality used alone and that the benefits in terms of seizure reduction continue to increase with the length of treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayman T. Abdelmoity
- Division of NeurologyDepartment of PediatricsChildren’s Mercy Kansas CityKansas CityMOUSA
| | | | | | - Ashley K. Sherman
- Health Services and Outcome ResearchChildren’s Mercy Kansas CityKansas CityMOUSA
| | - Ara S. Hall
- Division of NeurologyDepartment of PediatricsChildren’s Mercy Kansas CityKansas CityMOUSA
| | - Ahmed T. Abdelmoity
- Division of NeurologyDepartment of PediatricsChildren’s Mercy Kansas CityKansas CityMOUSA
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Budget Impact Analysis of Extended-Release Phenytoin Capsules Compared With Immediate-Release Phenytoin Capsules for Patients With Epilepsy in Thailand. Value Health Reg Issues 2019; 21:22-28. [PMID: 31634793 DOI: 10.1016/j.vhri.2019.04.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 02/27/2019] [Accepted: 04/29/2019] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES There was higher frequency of breakthrough seizures during immediate-release phenytoin capsule usage than during extended-release phenytoin capsule usage by epilepsy patients. This study aimed to estimate the total budget of using extended-release phenytoin compared with immediate-release phenytoin capsules. METHODS A decision tree model was developed for 3 scenarios in Thailand where (1) extended-release phenytoin, (2) immediate-release phenytoin, and (3) both forms, as per the market share, were prescribed. All parameters were derived from the literature reviews and hospital database and analyzed from payer and societal perspectives. RESULTS Of 95 613 patients receiving phenytoin, the total budget impact of scenarios 1 to 3 ranged from $45 214 915 to $50 209 357, $104 298 093 to $111 846 317, and $61 167 373 to $66 851 336 from payer and societal perspectives, respectively. CONCLUSION Prescribing extended-release phenytoin showed the lowest total budget impact in Thailand. A healthcare policy recommendation developed from this research would help in solving the antiepileptic drug issue.
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Blier P, Margolese HC, Wilson EA, Boucher M. Switching medication products during the treatment of psychiatric illness. Int J Psychiatry Clin Pract 2019; 23:2-13. [PMID: 30732488 DOI: 10.1080/13651501.2018.1508724] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The common practice of switching between branded (reference) medications and their corresponding generic products, between generic products, or even from a generic product to a branded medication during the treatment of central nervous system (CNS) disorders may compromise efficacy and/or tolerability. METHODS We assessed the published literature from March 1, 2010 through June 30, 2017 via PubMed using the MeSH term 'generics, drugs' alone and in combination with class-specific terms (e.g., 'anticonvulsants', 'mood stabilisers'), for studies detailing outcomes following product switches. RESULTS Although some studies comparing the initiation of reference versus generic drugs suggest equivalence between products, several studies detailing a switch between reference and generic products describe reductions in efficacy, reduced medication adherence and persistence, and increased overall health care resource utilization and costs associated with generic substitution. CONCLUSION When product switches are considered, they should only proceed with the full knowledge of both patient and provider.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pierre Blier
- a University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research , Ottawa , ON , Canada
| | | | | | - Matthieu Boucher
- d Department of Pharmacology & Therapeutics , McGill University, McIntyre Medical Science Building , Montréal , QC , Canada.,e Medical Affairs, Pfizer Canada Inc , Kirkland , QC , Canada
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Wheless JW, Phelps SJ. A Clinician's Guide to Oral Extended-Release Drug Delivery Systems in Epilepsy. J Pediatr Pharmacol Ther 2018; 23:277-292. [PMID: 30181718 DOI: 10.5863/1551-6776-23.4.277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy is one of the most common chronic neurologic disorders that affects individuals of all ages. It is primarily managed with antiepileptic drugs (AEDs), with the goal of maintaining complete seizure control combined with minimal or no adverse effects. Oral administration is the mainstay of AED delivery for patients with chronic epilepsy and consists essentially of immediate-release (IR) and modified-release (delayed-release and extended-release [ER]) dosage formulations. Extended-release formulations (hydrophilic or hydrophobic matrix systems, reservoir systems, and osmotic-release systems) release a drug in a controlled manner during an extended period of time following administration. Extended-release formulations have many advantages compared with IR formulations, including simplification of dosing regimens, reduction in pill burden, and reduction in the peak-to-trough fluctuations in serum drug concentration that may be associated with a decreased risk of adverse effects and of seizures. These advantages have the potential to increase adherence to antiepileptic therapy, improve the quality of life of patients, and reduce health care costs. This article, which is intended as a practical guide for clinicians, reviews the properties of the different ER AED formulations currently available and discusses the advantages of ER over IR formulations. Subsequently, an explanation of the technologic basis of the different oral ER formulations, the critical attributes that differentiate ER products, and their individual strengths and weaknesses is provided. Specific recommendations to practitioners on treating patients with ER formulations are included.
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Willems LM, Richter S, Watermann N, Bauer S, Klein KM, Reese JP, Schöffski O, Hamer HM, Knake S, Rosenow F, Strzelczyk A. Trends in resource utilization and prescription of anticonvulsants for patients with active epilepsy in Germany from 2003 to 2013 - A ten-year overview. Epilepsy Behav 2018; 83:28-35. [PMID: 29649671 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2018.03.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2018] [Accepted: 03/14/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated trends in resource use and prescription patterns in patients with active epilepsy over a 10-year period at the same outpatient clinic of a German epilepsy center. We analyzed a cross-sectional patient sample of consecutive adults with active epilepsy over a 3-month period in 2013 and compared them with equally acquired data from the years 2003 and 2008. Using validated patient questionnaires, data on socioeconomic status, course of epilepsy, as well as direct and indirect costs were recorded. A total of 198 patients (mean age: 39.6±15.0years, 49.5% male) were enrolled and compared with our previous assessments in 2003 (n=101) and 2008 (n=151). In the 2013 cohort, 75.8% of the patients had focal epilepsy, and the majority were taking antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) (39.9% monotherapy, 59.1% polytherapy). We calculated epilepsy-specific costs of €3674 per three months per patient. Direct medical costs were mainly due to anticonvulsants (20.9% of total direct costs) and to hospitalization (20.8% of total direct costs). The proportion of enzyme-inducing anticonvulsants and 'old' AEDs decreased between 2003 and 2013. Indirect costs of €1795 in 2013 were mainly due to early retirement (55.0% of total indirect costs), unemployment (26.5%), and days off due to seizures (18.2%). In contrast to our previous findings from 2003 and 2008, our data show a stagnating cost increase with slightly reduced total costs and balanced direct and indirect costs in patients with active epilepsy. These findings are accompanied by an ongoing cost-neutral increase in the prescription of 'newer' and non-enzyme-inducing AEDs. However, the number and distribution of indirect cost components remained unchanged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent M Willems
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany
| | - Saskia Richter
- Epilepsy Center Hessen, Department of Neurology, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Nina Watermann
- Epilepsy Center Hessen, Department of Neurology, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Sebastian Bauer
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Epilepsy Center Hessen, Department of Neurology, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Karl Martin Klein
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Epilepsy Center Hessen, Department of Neurology, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Jens-Peter Reese
- Coordinating Center for Clinical Trials, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Oliver Schöffski
- Department of Health Management, Friedrich-Alexander-University, Nuremberg, Germany
| | - Hajo M Hamer
- Epilepsy Center, Department of Neurology, Friedrich-Alexander-University, Erlangen, Germany
| | - Susanne Knake
- Epilepsy Center Hessen, Department of Neurology, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Felix Rosenow
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Epilepsy Center Hessen, Department of Neurology, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Adam Strzelczyk
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main, Department of Neurology, Goethe-University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Epilepsy Center Hessen, Department of Neurology, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany.
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Grabowski DC, Fishman J, Wild I, Lavin B. Changing the neurology policy landscape in the United States: Misconceptions and facts about epilepsy. Health Policy 2018; 122:797-802. [PMID: 29908672 DOI: 10.1016/j.healthpol.2018.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/10/2017] [Revised: 05/09/2018] [Accepted: 05/21/2018] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Epilepsy has a relatively high prevalence, and diagnosis and treatment are often challenging. Seizure freedom without significant side effects is the ultimate goal for both physicians and patients, but not always achievable. In those cases, the treatment goals of patients and providers may differ. In the United States, many clinicians continue to prescribe older AEDs, even though newer AEDs have a more desirable safety and tolerability profile, fewer drug-drug interactions, and are associated with lower epilepsy-related hospital visits. Newer AEDs are more commonly prescribed by neurologists and epilepsy center physicians, highlighting the importance of access to specialty care. We report that antiepileptic drugs are not the dominant cost driver for patients with epilepsy and costs are considerably higher in patients with uncontrolled epilepsy. Poor drug adherence is considered a main cause of unsuccessful epilepsy treatment and is associated with increases in inpatient and emergency department admissions and related costs. Interventions and educational programs are needed to address the reasons for nonadherence. Coverage policies placing a higher cost burden on patients with epilepsy lead to lower treatment adherence, which can result in higher future health care spending. Epilepsy is lagging behind other neurological conditions in terms of funding and treatment innovation. Increased investment in epilepsy research may be particularly beneficial given current funding levels and the high prevalence of epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C Grabowski
- Department of Health Care Policy, Harvard Medical School, 180 Longwood Avenue, Boston, MA, 02115-5899, USA.
| | - Jesse Fishman
- UCB Pharma, 1950 Lake Park Drive SE, Smyrna, GA 30080, USA.
| | - Imane Wild
- UCB Pharma, 1950 Lake Park Drive SE, Smyrna, GA 30080, USA.
| | - Bruce Lavin
- UCB Pharma, 1950 Lake Park Drive SE, Smyrna, GA 30080, USA.
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Khandelwal N, Johns B, Hepp Z, Castelli-Haley J. The economic impact of switching from Synthroid for the treatment of hypothyroidism. J Med Econ 2018; 21:518-524. [PMID: 29458287 DOI: 10.1080/13696998.2018.1443110] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
AIMS To compare hypothyroidism-related costs for patients who continuously used Synthroid and patients who switched from Synthroid to alternative therapies. MATERIALS AND METHODS Truven's Health Analytics MarketScan Commercial Claims and Encounters database from January 1, 2007 to June 30, 2014 was queried for US adults diagnosed with hypothyroidism who initiated Synthroid and adhered to such therapy for at least 6 months. Propensity score matching matched continuous users of Synthroid to patients who switched from Synthroid to alternative levothyroxine agents. Kruskal-Wallis tests assessed differences between the matched cohorts in several categories of costs, including disease-related drug costs, non-drug medical costs, and total direct medical costs. RESULTS There were 10,159 individuals included in the study, with 7,991 continuous users of Synthroid and 2,168 switchers. After matching (n = 2,052 for each cohort), continuous use of Synthroid was associated with significantly lower hypothyroidism-related non-drug medical costs ($595 vs $1,023; p = .003) and reduced hypothyroidism-related total medical costs ($757 vs $1,132; p = .010), despite being associated with significantly higher drug costs ($161 vs $109; p < .001). Hypothyroidism-related total medical costs rose as the number of switches of hypothyroidism treatment increased, with continuous users having significantly lower hypothyroidism-related total medical costs ($757) compared with patients who switched twice ($1,179; p = .001) or three or more times ($1,268; p = .004). LIMITATIONS The analyses focused on continuously insured patients who were adherent to Synthroid for at least 6 months and results may not be generalizable. The reliance on claims data does not allow for clinical examination of hypothyroidism or inclusion of some factors that may be associated with outcomes. The analyses assume that all prescriptions filled are taken as prescribed. CONCLUSIONS Results indicate that there are significant direct economic healthcare costs associated with switching from Synthroid to alternative levothyroxine therapies, and that these costs increase as patients switch therapies more frequently.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Zsolt Hepp
- a AbbVie, Inc. , North Chicago , IL , USA
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Abstract
Switching branded to generic medications has become a common cost-containment measure. Although this is an important objective for health care systems worldwide, the impact of this practice on patient outcomes needs to be carefully considered. We reviewed the literature summarizing the potential clinical and economic consequences of switching from branded to generic medications on patient outcomes. A literature search of peer-reviewed articles published 2003-2013 using key words of "generic switching" or "substitution" was conducted using PubMed, OvidSP, and ScienceDirect. Of 30 articles identified and reviewed, most were related to the diseases of the central nervous system, especially epilepsy. Based on our review, potential impacts of switching fell into 3 broad categories: patient attitudes and adherence, clinical and safety outcomes, and cost and resource utilization. Although in many cases generics may represent an appropriate alternative to branded products, this may not always be the case. Specifically, several studies suggested that switching may negatively impact medication adherence, whereas other studies found that generic switching was associated with poorer clinical outcomes and more adverse events. In some instances, switching accomplished cost savings but did so at increased total cost of care because of increased physician visits or hospitalizations. Although in many cases generics may represent an appropriate alternative, mandatory generic switching may lead to unintended consequences, especially in certain therapeutic areas. Although further study is warranted, based on our review, it may be medically justifiable for physicians and patients to retain the right to request the branded product in certain cases.
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Scott FI, Lichtenstein GR. Biosimilars in the Treatment of Inflammatory Bowel Disease: Supporting Evidence in 2017. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2018; 16:147-164. [PMID: 29492747 DOI: 10.1007/s11938-018-0177-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Monoclonal antibodies targeting tumor necrosis factor-alpha, integrin molecules, and interleukin-12/23 have become backbone therapies for Crohn's disease and ulcerative colitis. While clinically effective, these biologic therapies come with significant expense, contributing to overall healthcare spending in the USA. Biosimilars have the potential to significantly reduce expenditures secondary to the use of biologic medications such as infliximab and adalimumab, though their complicated manufacturing process results in inherent differences in structure when compared to the originator compounds. In this article, we review the available literature regarding biosimilars in IBD. RECENT FINDINGS Several biosimilar agents to infliximab and adalimumab are currently FDA-approved, with many more currently in development. Initial clinical trials for approval have been conducted in one of the original indications for each originator biologic. There are growing data demonstrating similar clinical efficacy, immunogenicity, and safety of each of the approved infliximab and adalimumab biosimilars, both through indication extrapolation from other diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis and ankylosing spondylitis, as well observational data in patients with inflammatory bowel disease. Further research is ongoing regarding the efficacy and safety of substitution and interchangeability of biosimilars, as well as therapeutic drug monitoring for biosimilar agents. Research to date supports the utilization of reference biologics and biosimilars for new initiators, while additional data are being accrued regarding the interchangeability between these agents.
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Affiliation(s)
- Frank I Scott
- Crohn's and Colitis Center, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, 1635 Aurora Court, Room 2.031, Mail Stop F735, Aurora, CO, 80045, USA.
| | - Gary R Lichtenstein
- Gastroenterology Division, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, 7th Floor South Perelman Building, Room 753, 3400 Civic Center Boulevard, Philadelphia, PA, 19104-4283, USA
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Strzelczyk A, Bergmann A, Biermann V, Braune S, Dieterle L, Forth B, Kortland LM, Lang M, Peckmann T, Schöffski O, Sigel KO, Rosenow F. Neurologist adherence to clinical practice guidelines and costs in patients with newly diagnosed and chronic epilepsy in Germany. Epilepsy Behav 2016; 64:75-82. [PMID: 27732920 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2016.07.037] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2016] [Revised: 07/08/2016] [Accepted: 07/25/2016] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this study was to evaluate physician adherence to the German Neurological Society guidelines of 2008 regarding initial monotherapy and to determine the cost-of-illness in epilepsy. METHODS This was an observational cohort study using health data routinely collected at 55 outpatient neurology practices throughout Germany (NeuroTransData network). Data on socioeconomic status, course of epilepsy, anticonvulsive treatment, and direct and indirect costs were recorded using practice software-based questionnaires. RESULTS One thousand five hundred eighty-four patients with epilepsy (785 male (49.6%); mean age: 51.3±18.1years) were enrolled, of whom 507 were newly diagnosed. Initial monotherapy was started according to authorization status in 85.9%, with nonenzyme-inducing drugs in 94.3% of all AEDs. Drugs of first choice by guideline recommendations were used in 66.5%. Total annual direct costs in the first year amounted to €2194 (SD: €4273; range: €55-43,896) per patient, with hospitalization (59% of total direct costs) and anticonvulsants (30%) as the main cost factors. Annual total direct costs decreased by 29% to €1572 in the second year, mainly because of a 59% decrease in hospitalization costs. The use of first choice AEDs did not influence costs. Chronic epilepsy was present in 1077 patients, and total annual direct costs amounted to €1847 per patient, with anticonvulsants (51.0%) and hospitalization (41.0%) as the main cost factors. Potential cost-driving factors in these patients were active epilepsy and focal epilepsy syndrome. CONCLUSION This study shows excellent physician adherence to guidelines regarding initial monotherapy in adults with epilepsy. Newly diagnosed patients show higher total direct and hospital costs in the first year upon diagnosis, but these are not influenced by adherence to treatment guidelines.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Strzelczyk
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany.
| | | | - Valeria Biermann
- Department of Health Management, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU), Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany
| | | | | | | | - Lena-Marie Kortland
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany
| | - Michael Lang
- NeuroTransData, NTD Study Group, Neuburg, Germany
| | | | - Oliver Schöffski
- Department of Health Management, Friedrich-Alexander-University (FAU), Erlangen-Nuremberg, Germany
| | | | - Felix Rosenow
- Epilepsy Center Frankfurt Rhine-Main and Department of Neurology, Goethe University, Frankfurt am Main, Germany; Epilepsy Center Hessen and Department of Neurology, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany
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Chee KY, Tripathi A, Avasthi A, Chong MY, Sim K, Yang SY, Glover S, Xiang YT, Si TM, Kanba S, He YL, Lee MS, Chiu HFK, Kuga H, Mahendran R, Udormatn P, Kallivayalil RA, Tanra AJ, Maramis M, Shinfuku N, Shen WW, Tan CH, Sartorius N. International study on antidepressant prescription pattern at 40 major psychiatric institutions and hospitals in Asia: A 10-year comparison study. Asia Pac Psychiatry 2015; 7:366-74. [PMID: 25706498 DOI: 10.1111/appy.12176] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2014] [Accepted: 01/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Research in prescription pattern of antidepressants in Asia is lacking. This study aims to compare the antidepressants prescription pattern in Asia in 2003-2004 and 2013. METHODS The Research in East Asia Psychotropic Prescription Pattern on Antidepressants (REAP-AD) had worked collaboratively in 2003-2004 (REAP-AD 2003/2004) and 2013 (REAP-AD 2013) to study the prescription pattern of antidepressants in Asia. The REAP-AD 2013 study was conducted in China, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Malaysia, Singapore, Taiwan, and Thailand using a unified research protocol and questionnaire. RESULTS Forty psychiatric centers participated in REAP-AD 2013 and a total of 2,319 patients receive antidepressants were analyzed. In 2013, 39.6% of the antidepressant prescriptions were for diagnoses other thandepressive disorder compared with 38.4% in REAP-AD 2003/2004. Out of all the antidepressants listed in the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification index by the World Health Organization Collaborating Center for Drug Statistics Methodology (Oslo), only 38% antidepressants were prescribed in participating centers in 2013 compared with 46% in REAP-AD 2003/2004. The selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors were the most common antidepressant prescribed in the participating centers, which was similar to the 2003-2004 survey. Prescription of newer generation antidepressants had increased in 2013 survey; on the contrary, prescription of tricyclic antidepressants had reduced. DISCUSSION This study has contributed significantly in relation to the changing patterns of antidepressant use in all the participating Asian centers in the last 10 years. The findings are important in shaping optimal antidepressant prescription and future policy making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kok-Yoon Chee
- Department of Psychiatry & Mental Health, Kuala Lumpur Hospital, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Adarsh Tripathi
- Department of Psychiatry, King George's Medical University, Chowk, Lucknow, India
| | - Ajit Avasthi
- Department of Psychiatry, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
| | - Mian-Yoon Chong
- Department of Psychiatry, Kaohsiung Chang Gung Memorial Hospital-Kaohsiung Medical Center and School of Medicine, Chang Gung University, Taiwan, China
| | - Kang Sim
- Institute of Mental Health, Buangkok View, Buangkok Green Medical Park Singapore, Taipei, Taiwan, China
| | - Shu-Yu Yang
- Department of Pharmacy, Taipei City Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan, China
| | - Sandeep Glover
- Department of Psychiatry, Post Graduate Institute of Medical Education and Research (PGIMER), Chandigarh, India
| | - Yu-Tao Xiang
- Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao SAR, China
| | - Tian-Mei Si
- Department of Psychiatry, Peking University Institute of Mental Health, Beijing, China
| | - Shigenobu Kanba
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Yan-Ling He
- Department of Psychiatric Epidemiology, Shanghai Mental Health Center, Shanghai, China
| | - Min-Soo Lee
- Department of Psychiatry, College of Medicine, Korea University, Seoul, Korea
| | | | - Hironori Kuga
- Department of Neuropsychiatry, Kyushu University, Fukuoka, Japan
| | - Rathi Mahendran
- Department of Psychological Medicine, National University Hospital, Singapore
| | - Pichet Udormatn
- Department of Psychiatry, Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University, Songkhla, Thailand
| | | | - Andi J Tanra
- Department of Psychiatry, Hasanuddin University Faculty of Medicine, Makassar, Sulawesi Selatan, Indonesia
| | - Margarita Maramis
- Dr. Soetomo Hospital - Faculty of Medicine, Airlangga University, Jawa Timur, Indonesia
| | | | - Winston W Shen
- Department of Psychiatry, TMU-Wan Fang Medical Center, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Chay-Hoon Tan
- Department of Pharmacology, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Norman Sartorius
- Association for the Improvement of Mental Health Programmes, Geneva, Switzerland
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Banta JE, Addison A, Beeson WL. Spatial patterns of epilepsy-related emergency department visits in california. J Public Health Res 2015; 4:441. [PMID: 25918697 PMCID: PMC4407042 DOI: 10.4081/jphr.2015.441] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2014] [Accepted: 02/10/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Socio-demographic factors are associated with increased emergency department (ED) use among patients with epilepsy. However, there has been limited spatial analysis of such visits. Design and methods California ED visit at the patient ZIP Code level were examined using Kulldorf’s spatial scan statistic to identify clusters of increased risk for epilepsy-related visits. Logistic regression was used to examine the relative importance of patient socio-demographics, Census-based and hospital measures. Results During 2009-2011 there were 29,715,009 ED visits at 330 hospitals, of which 139,235 (0.5%) had epilepsy (International Classification of Disease-9 345.xx) as the primary diagnosis. Three large urban clusters of high epilepsy-related ED visits were centred in the cities of Los Angeles, Oakland and Stockton and a large rural cluster centred in Kern County. No consistent pattern by age, race/ethnicity, household structure, and income was observed among all clusters. Regression found only the Los Angeles cluster significant after adjusting for other measures. Conclusions Geospatial analysis within a large and geographically diverse region identified a cluster within its most populous city having an increased risk of ED visits for epilepsy independent of selected socio-demographic and hospital measures. Additional research is necessary to determine whether elevated rates of ED visits represent increased prevalence of epilepsy or an inequitable system of epilepsy care. Significance for public health There have been few spatial analyses regarding treatment for epilepsy. This paper significantly expands upon previous work by simultaneously considering multiple urban centres and sparsely populated agricultural and desert/mountain areas in a large state. Furthermore, most epilepsy studies involve one system of care or funding source (such as Department of Veterans Affairs, Medicare, Medicaid, or private insurance plans). This paper considers all funding sources at community-based hospitals. Patient socio-demographics, area-based summaries of socio-demographics, and basic hospital characteristics explain most of the observed spatial variation in rates of emergency department (ED) visits related to epilepsy. However, preliminary spatial analysis demonstrated that an area within downtown Los Angeles did have a higher rate of epilepsy-related visits compared to the rest of the state. A more comprehensive surveillance approach with ED visit data could be readily applied to other large geographic areas and be useful both for on-going monitoring and public health intervention
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Affiliation(s)
- Jim E Banta
- School of Public Health, Loma Linda University , CA
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Noda AH, Hermsen A, Berkenfeld R, Dennig D, Endrass G, Kaltofen J, Safavi A, Wiehler S, Carl G, Meier U, Elger CE, Menzler K, Knake S, Rosenow F, Strzelczyk A. Evaluation of costs of epilepsy using an electronic practice management software in Germany. Seizure 2015; 26:49-55. [DOI: 10.1016/j.seizure.2015.01.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2014] [Revised: 01/14/2015] [Accepted: 01/15/2015] [Indexed: 10/24/2022] Open
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Sander JW, Ryvlin P, Stefan H, Booth DR, Bauer J. Generic substitution of antiepileptic drugs. Expert Rev Neurother 2014; 10:1887-98. [DOI: 10.1586/ern.10.163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/08/2022]
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES To evaluate the effects on physicians' prescribing behavior and on the therapeutic outcome of non-insulin-dependent diabetes patients of substituting different generic brands of metformin. METHODS We adopt a retrospective cohort study involving 280 type-2 diabetes patients who regularly used the outpatient services of one medical center and who had changed metformin brands five times between 2003 and 2008. The aim was to examine the effects of switching brands. The generalized estimating equation was used to determine whether drug brand switching affected patient glycated hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) levels, their prescribed daily dose, or their adherence to medication with metformin. RESULTS HbA1c levels increased from 7.91 to 8.34 throughout the study period, although it was found that brand switching did not adversely affect HbA1c levels after controlling for patient characteristics and the time course of the study. Furthermore, the prescribed daily dose of metformin was stable throughout the study period, and was approximately 0.8 of the defined daily dose. Finally, although adherence was significantly higher with the original metformin than with the four generic brands, patients still maintained high levels of adherence of >0.8. CONCLUSION Although switching between different brands of metformin slightly affected the prescribing behavior of the physicians, there was no unfavorable effect on patient HbA1c levels. Thus, the policy of substituting between different generic brands of metformin is a good cost-effective approach that does not adversely affect the quality of diabetes patient care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui-Yin Chen
- Department of Auditing, Mackay Memorial Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Ru Chang
- Department of Social Insurance, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Hui-Chu Lang
- Institute of Hospital and Health Care Administration, National Yang-Ming University, Taipei, Taiwan
- Correspondence: Hui-Chu Lang, Institute of Hospital and Health Care Administration, National Yang-Ming University, No 155 Sec 2 Li-Nong Street, Taipei 112, Taiwan, Tel +886 2 2826 7015, Email
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Strzelczyk A, Haag A, Reese JP, Nickolay T, Oertel WH, Dodel R, Knake S, Rosenow F, Hamer HM. Trends in resource utilization and prescription of anticonvulsants for patients with active epilepsy in Germany. Epilepsy Behav 2013; 27:433-8. [PMID: 23591262 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2013.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 43] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2013] [Revised: 03/09/2013] [Accepted: 03/11/2013] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated trends in the resource use of patients with active epilepsy over a 5-year period at an outpatient clinic of a German epilepsy center. Two cross-sectional cohorts of consecutive adults with active epilepsy were evaluated over a 3-month period in 2003 and 2008. Data on socioeconomic status, course of epilepsy, as well as direct and indirect costs were recorded using validated patient questionnaires. We enrolled 101 patients in 2003 and 151 patients in 2008. In both cohorts, 76% of the patients suffered from focal epilepsy, and the majority was on antiepileptic drug (AED) polytherapy (mean AED number: 1.7 (2003), 1.8 (2008)). We calculated epilepsy-specific costs of € 2955 in 2003 and € 3532 in 2008 per 3 months per patient. Direct medical costs were mainly due to anticonvulsants in 2003 (59.4% of total direct costs, 34.0% in 2008) and to hospitalization in 2008 (46.9% of total direct costs, 27.7% in 2003). The proportion of enzyme-inducing anticonvulsants and 'old' AEDs decreased between 2003 and 2008. Indirect costs of € 1689 and € 1847 were mainly due to early retirement (48.4%; 46.0% of total indirect costs in 2003; 2008), unemployment (26.1%; 24.2%), and days off due to seizures (25.5%; 29.8%). This study showed a shift in distribution of direct cost components with increased hospital costs as well as a cost-neutral increase in the prescription of 'newer' AEDs. The amount and distribution of indirect cost components remained unchanged.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Strzelczyk
- Department of Neurology and Epilepsy Center Hessen, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany.
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Steinhoff B. Antikonvulsive Pharmakotherapie Jugendlicher und Erwachsener. ZEITSCHRIFT FUR EPILEPTOLOGIE 2013. [DOI: 10.1007/s10309-013-0307-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Hensler K, Uhlmann C, Porschen T, Benecke R, Rösche J. Generic substitution of antiepileptic drugs--a survey of patients' perspectives in Germany and other German-speaking countries. Epilepsy Behav 2013; 27:135-9. [PMID: 23416284 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2012.12.029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2012] [Revised: 12/03/2012] [Accepted: 12/28/2012] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
In this study, we sought to determine the patients' attitudes towards generic substitution of antiepileptic drugs (AEDs) and their experiences with the usage of generic antiepileptic drugs in Germany and other German-speaking countries. A questionnaire was designed for a cross-sectional study. Two thousand copies of the questionnaire were delivered with a magazine edited by a patients' organization. Additionally, the questionnaire was placed on the internet platform of another patients' organization. Thirty-two percent of the patients who already experienced a switch to generic AEDs complained of problems with the switch. Patients who answered the magazine survey worried significantly more about generic substitution of AEDs than patients who answered the internet version. Patients who had never switched were more concerned about generic substitution than those who had already switched. Moreover, patients' beliefs differed between the use of generic drugs in acute medical conditions such as pain and infections and the use of generic AEDs in epilepsy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katrin Hensler
- Klinik und Poliklinik für Neurologie, Universitätsmedizin Rostock, Germany
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Prevalence, utilization, and costs of antiepileptic drugs for epilepsy in Germany—a nationwide population-based study in children and adults. J Neurol 2012; 259:2376-84. [DOI: 10.1007/s00415-012-6509-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 83] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2012] [Accepted: 03/30/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
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20
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Strzelczyk A, Nickolay T, Bauer S, Haag A, Knake S, Oertel WH, Reif PS, Rosenow F, Reese JP, Dodel R, Hamer HM. Evaluation of health-care utilization among adult patients with epilepsy in Germany. Epilepsy Behav 2012; 23:451-7. [PMID: 22381385 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2012.01.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 57] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2011] [Accepted: 01/09/2012] [Indexed: 10/28/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluated the resource use of patients with epilepsy in the German district of Marburg-Biedenkopf. A cross-sectional cohort of consecutive adults with epilepsy, irrespective of seizure severity, duration of illness and epilepsy syndrome, was investigated in all health-care sectors. Costs of inpatient and outpatient treatment were derived from billing data of participating hospitals and office-based physicians. Data on socioeconomic status, course of epilepsy and further direct and indirect costs were recorded using patient questionnaires. We enrolled 366 patients from the district of Marburg-Biedenkopf and calculated annual epilepsy-specific costs of €7738 per patient. Direct costs contributed 31.1% (€2406) and indirect costs 68.9% (€5332) of the total costs. Direct medical costs were mainly due to hospitalization (33.2% of total direct costs) and anticonvulsants (26.7%). Costs of admissions were due to status epilepticus (24.4%), video-EEG monitoring (14.8%), newly diagnosed patients (14.4%) and seizure-related injuries (8.8%). Indirect costs were mainly due to early retirement (38.0%), unemployment (35.9%) and days off due to seizures (26.2%). The mean costs of epilepsy found in our study were lower than those found in studies conducted at European epilepsy centers due to the inclusion of patients in all health-care sectors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adam Strzelczyk
- Department of Neurology and Epilepsy Center Hessen, Philipps-University, Marburg, Germany.
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Patel V, Cordato DJ, Dias M, Beran RG. Changed constitution without change in brand name--the risk of generics in epilepsy. Epilepsy Res 2012; 98:269-72. [PMID: 22030125 DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2011.09.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2011] [Revised: 09/20/2011] [Accepted: 09/26/2011] [Indexed: 02/08/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Lamotrigine (LTG) is an anti epileptic medication (AEM) for which blood levels are helpful for optimal dosing. In late 2010, patients attending an epilepsy clinic were becoming toxic without obvious cause. This paper reports altered levels without change in regimen and provides unexpected findings. METHODS Patients with elevated LTG blood levels were assessed to determine change in AEM regimen or generic substitution. Method of blood level determination was reviewed and the company (GlaxoSmithKline) contacted regarding change in source of medication. PRINCIPAL RESULTS The sample comprised 18 patients; mean age 40±16 years, mean daily LTG dose 493±218 mg. Mean serum LTG concentrations from August 2010 to February 2011 [91.8±17.7 μmolL(-1), range 69.9-133.7 μmolL(-1)] were significantly higher than those from January 2010 to July 2010 [50.3±9.1 μmolL(-1), range 32-60.1 μmolL(-1)), p<0.0001]. All patients received parent product (Lamictal(®)) and the method of LTG blood level determination was unchanged. GlaxoSmithKline confirmed that Lamictal(®) was sourced from a different site. CONCLUSIONS These results indicate that, even using a parent compound, AEM levels can fluctuate if the product source has changed, resulting in toxicity. It also highlights the value of determining AEM levels and the risks attached to generic substitution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vishal Patel
- Department of Neurophysiology, Liverpool Hospital, Liverpool, NSW, Australia
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Bautista RED, Gonzales W, Jain D. Factors associated with poor seizure control and increased side effects after switching to generic antiepileptic drugs. Epilepsy Res 2011; 95:158-67. [DOI: 10.1016/j.eplepsyres.2011.03.014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2010] [Revised: 01/25/2011] [Accepted: 03/13/2011] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
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