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Miller BS, Loftus J, Kelkar M, Shrestha S, Parzynski C, Benjumea D, Wogen J, Jhingran P, Alvir J, Gupta A, Wajnrajch M. Impact of Daily Growth Hormone Adherence on Height Velocity Among Children With Growth Hormone Deficiency (GHD). Endocr Pract 2024; 30:837-846. [PMID: 38821179 DOI: 10.1016/j.eprac.2024.05.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 05/10/2024] [Accepted: 05/22/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe adherence to daily somatropin treatment and impact on height velocity within 1 year of treatment start among patients with pediatric growth hormone deficiency in a real-world US population. METHODS This retrospective cohort study included pediatric patients aged ≥3 years to <16 years with pediatric growth hormone deficiency prescribed somatropin by a pediatric endocrinologist at a US-based center of excellence between January 1, 2015 and December 31, 2020. Patient data were collected using hospital electronic health records linked to a specialty pharmacy patient prescription records. Adherence, evaluated over 12 months, was measured using the proportion of days covered metric and patients were categorized as adherent if their proportion of days covered ≥80%. Height velocity was annualized to compare across adherent and nonadherent patients. RESULTS One hundred eighty-one patients were identified and included in this study, of which 70.2% were male,73.5% were white, and mean age (standard deviation [SD]) at index was 12.1 (2.8). In the height velocity analysis, 174 patients were included and the mean (SD) annualized change in height was 10.2 (5.7) cm/y in the adherent group (n = 108) and 9.8 (7.6) in the nonadherent group (n = 66). The difference in height velocity between the groups was not statistically significant. CONCLUSIONS Minor improvements in average height velocity were observed in the patient group who were adherent to somatropin therapy, although not statistically significant. Lack of observed significance may be due to small sample sizes, short observation period, a likely heterogenous population in terms of growth hormone prescribing, data bias due to single-center origin, or potential patient misclassification.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley S Miller
- University of Minnesota Medical School, M Health Fairview Masonic Children's Hospital, Minneapolis, Minnesota
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Linglart A, Coutant R, Polak M, Nicolino M. Long-acting growth hormone in the management of GHD in France. Arch Pediatr 2024; 31:357-364. [PMID: 39030125 DOI: 10.1016/j.arcped.2024.03.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 03/08/2024] [Accepted: 03/16/2024] [Indexed: 07/21/2024]
Abstract
Approximately 10,000 children in France with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) are being administered daily recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH). Although this treatment has long proved efficient for restoring children's growth and metabolism, daily injections of rhGH have a few limitations, such as difficulties in terms of adherence to treatment, which may compromise growth during childhood but also metabolism in adulthood. In addition to the disease burden and besides the adherence hurdles, the obligations related to daily injection have a negative impact on the quality of life of patients and their families. The hypothesis that injections administered at intervals of 1 week, or even 1 month, could improve compliance, reduce treatment discontinuations, and optimize quality of life and therapeutic effectiveness has led to the emergence of new long-acting growth hormone (LAGH). Recent access to LAGHs (somatrogon MA) on the European and French market will likely be followed by a high demand from the families concerned and may raise questions on their effectiveness, safety, and practical use. Numerous practical and practice-related points are needed to guide prescribing physicians while many concerns are still left unresolved (treatment effectiveness or ineffectiveness endpoints, long-term effectiveness, etc.). These issues can only be addressed in the future by compiling registries and conducting long-term real-world studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnès Linglart
- AP-HP, Paris Saclay University, INSERM U1185, Endocrinology and Diabetes for children, Reference Center for rare diseases of calcium and phosphate metabolism, OSCAR network, Platform of expertise for rare diseases of Paris Saclay Hospital, Bicêtre Paris Saclay Hospital, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre, France.
| | - Régis Coutant
- Service d'Endocrinologie et Diabétologie Pédiatrique, Centre de Référence des Maladies Rares de la Thyroïde et des Récepteurs Hormonaux, Centre de Référence (constitutif) des Maladies Rares de l'Hypophyse, FIRENDO network, CHU Angers, 49000 Angers, France
| | - Michel Polak
- Hôpital Universitaire Necker Enfants Malades, Pediatric Endocrinology, Gynecology and Diabetology, Imagine Institute, INSERM U1163, Cochin Institute, INSERM U1016, Centre de référence des pathologies endocriniennes rares de la croissance et du développement, FIRENDO network, Université de Paris Cité, Paris, France
| | - Marc Nicolino
- Hospices Civils de Lyon, Service d'Endocrinologie et Diabétologie Pédiatriques et Centre PRISIS, Pathologies Rares de l'Insulino-Sécrétion et de l'Insulino-Sensibilité, FIRENDO network, Hôpital Femme-Mère-Enfant 69500, Bron, France
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Attia N, Moussa K, Altwaim A, Al-Agha AE, Amir AA, Almuhareb A. Tackling access and payer barriers for growth hormone therapy in Saudi Arabia: a consensus statement for the Saudi Working Group for Pediatric Endocrinology. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2024; 37:387-399. [PMID: 38547465 DOI: 10.1515/jpem-2024-0021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/10/2024] [Accepted: 03/13/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Prompt diagnosis and early treatment are key goals to optimize the outcomes of children with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) and attain the genetically expected adult height. Nonetheless, several barriers can hinder prompt diagnosis and treatment of GHD, including payer-related issues. In Saudi Arabia, moderate-to-severe short stature was reported in 13.1 and 11.7 % of healthy boys and girls, respectively. Several access and payer barriers can face pediatric endocrinologists during the diagnosis and treatment of GHD in Saudi Arabia. Insurance coverage policies can restrict access to diagnostic tests for GHD and recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) due to their high costs and lack of gold-standard criteria. Some insurance policies may limit the duration of treatment with rhGH or the amount of medication covered per month. This consensus article gathered the insights of pediatric endocrinologists from Saudi Arabia to reflect the access and payer barriers to the diagnostic tests and treatment options of children with short stature. We also discussed the current payer-related challenges endocrinologists face during the investigations of children with short stature. The consensus identified potential strategies to overcome these challenges and optimize patient management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Najya Attia
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, 4917 King Abdulaziz Medical City/King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences/King Abdullah International Medical Research Center , Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Abdulaziz Altwaim
- King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences (KSAU-HS), Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- International Diabetes Care Center, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulmoein Eid Al-Agha
- Pediatric Department, Pediatric Endocrinology & Diabetes Section, King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia
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Zhu J, Yuan K, Rana S, Jakki SL, Bhat AS, Liang L, Wang C. Long-acting growth hormone in the treatment of growth hormone deficiency in children: a systematic literature review and network meta-analysis. Sci Rep 2024; 14:8061. [PMID: 38580693 PMCID: PMC10997584 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-024-58616-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024] Open
Abstract
The purpose of this study is to compare the relative efficacy and safety of long-acting growth hormone (LAGH) as a growth hormone replacement therapy in prepubertal children with growth hormone deficiency (GHD). We searched the PubMed, Embase, CNKI, and Wanfang databases from inception to July 2023 and identified eleven relevant studies. PEG-LAGH showed better effect on height velocity (mean difference [MD]: - 0.031, 95% credibility interval [CrI]: - 0.278, 0.215) than somatrogon (MD: 0.105, 95% CrI: - 0.419, 0.636), somapacitan (MD: 0.802, 95% CrI: - 0.451, 2.068) and lonapegsomatropin (MD: 1.335, 95% CrI: - 0.3, 2.989) when compared with daily growth hormone (DGH). Furthermore, in terms of height standard deviation score, PEG-LAGH demonstrated better improvement (MD: - 0.15, 95% CrI: - 1.1, 0.66) than somatrogon (MD: - 0.055, 95% CrI: - 1.3, 0.51) and somapacitan (MD: 0.22, 95% CrI: - 0.91, 1.3). PEG-LAGH (risk ratio [RR]: 1.00, 95% CrI: 0.82, 1.2) reduced the risk of adverse events compared with other LAGH (somatrogon, RR: 1.1, 95% CrI: 0.98, 1.2; somapacitan, RR: 1.1, 95% CrI: 0.96, 1.4; lonapegsomatropin, RR, 1.1, 95% CrI: 0.91, 1.3) and was comparable with DGH. This is the first study to indirectly compare the LAGH thorough a network meta-analysis and provide evidence of the optimal efficacy of various LAGH specifically PEG-LAGH and acceptable safety profile in prepubertal children with GHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jianfang Zhu
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Ke Yuan
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
| | | | | | | | - Li Liang
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Chunlin Wang
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, 310003, Zhejiang Province, China.
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Cheng SQ. [Management of transition growth hormone deficiency]. ZHONGGUO DANG DAI ER KE ZA ZHI = CHINESE JOURNAL OF CONTEMPORARY PEDIATRICS 2024; 26:224-229. [PMID: 38557372 PMCID: PMC10986377 DOI: 10.7499/j.issn.1008-8830.2309173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Accepted: 12/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
With an increasing understanding of growth hormone deficiency, there has been a growing emphasis on the management of transition growth hormone deficiency (TGHD) in clinical practice. The inadequate diagnosis and treatment of TGHD have been a major clinical concern, leading to the development of relevant guidelines and consensus internationally. This article summarizes the evaluation, diagnosis, treatment, and clinical challenges of TGHD based on these guidelines, consensus, and existing clinical studies, aiming to optimize and further improve the clinical diagnosis, treatment, and management of TGHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheng-Quan Cheng
- Department of Pediatrics, Xijing Hospital, Air Force Military Medical University, Xi'an 710032, China
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Akazawa M, Sato T, Ebata N, LoPresti M, Nishi R. Factors Related to Treatment Non-Adherence Among Caregivers of Pediatric and Adolescent Growth Hormone Deficiency Patients in Japan. Patient Prefer Adherence 2024; 18:607-622. [PMID: 38476590 PMCID: PMC10929548 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s446649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/14/2024] Open
Abstract
Background About one-third of caregivers of pediatric or adolescent growth hormone deficiency (pGHD) patients in Japan have reported poor treatment adherence. However, few studies have examined factors related to adherence for that group. Objective The aim of this study is to consider factors related to poor adherence to daily treatment among caregivers of pGHD patients in Japan. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among caregivers of pGHD patients in Japan. Caregivers were asked about demographic and treatment characteristics, health literacy, treatment satisfaction, opinions about treatment, and treatment adherence. Health literacy was assessed using the 14-item health literacy scale (HLS-14). Adherence was assessed using the 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8). Statistical association with adherence was considered using Chi-square and Student's t-testing. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and K-means cluster analysis was conducted to consider the influence of treatment satisfaction and opinions concerning treatment on adherence. Results Responses were collected from 112 caregivers. The caregiver's age being 30-39 years old, the primary caregiver being male, the primary caregiver being employed, and low functional health literacy for the caregiver were associated with poor adherence. Patients being pre-elementary school age was also associated with poor adherence. Low satisfaction with drug treatment and/or their device and communication with healthcare professionals (HCPs), and lack of agreement with the importance of treatment management (eg, keeping injection records, getting informed about the disease/therapy, reporting non-adherence, and sticking to an administration schedule), were also associated with poor adherence. Conclusion Strategies to improve treatment adherence among caregivers of pGHD patients in Japan should consider the age, gender, and employment status of the caregiver - as well as their functional literacy. Improvement in satisfaction with the drug or device used, better communication with HCPs, and greater awareness of the importance of treatment management, may also lead to better adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manabu Akazawa
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Kiyose, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takahiro Sato
- Medical Affairs, Rare Disease, Pfizer Japan Inc, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Nozomi Ebata
- Medical Affairs, Rare Disease, Pfizer Japan Inc, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Michael LoPresti
- Value & Access, INTAGE Healthcare Inc., Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Ryosuke Nishi
- Value & Access, INTAGE Healthcare Inc., Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
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Loftus J, Quitmann J, Valluri SR. Health-related quality of life in pre-pubertal children with pediatric growth hormone deficiency: 12-month results from a phase 3 clinical trial of once-weekly somatrogon versus once-daily somatropin. Curr Med Res Opin 2024; 40:175-184. [PMID: 38053515 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2023.2290623] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/29/2023] [Indexed: 12/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Treatment of pediatric growth hormone deficiency (pGHD) with daily injection of recombinant human growth hormone (somatropin) aims to increase height velocity and improve health-related quality of life (HRQoL). The Quality of Life in Short Stature Youth (QoLISSY) questionnaire was administered in a phase 3 clinical trial that evaluated efficacy and safety of once-weekly somatrogon versus once-daily somatropin in children with pGHD (ClinicalTrials.gov no NCT02968004). METHODS Treatment-naïve prepubertal children with pGHD received once-weekly somatrogon or once-daily somatropin for 12 months. The QoLISSY core module (physical/social/emotional subscales) was administered at baseline and 12 months after treatment initiation. QoLISSY-Parent was completed by parents/caregivers of children <7 years old and some parents/caregivers of children ≥7 years old; children ≥7 years old self-completed QoLISSY-Child. RESULTS Baseline characteristics were similar between treatment groups (N = 117). Among children <7 years old, QoLISSY-Parent total and subscale scores showed similarly improved HRQoL at 12 months relative to baseline in both treatment groups. Self-reported QoLISSY-Child total and subscale scores in children ≥7 years old indicated HRQoL improvements at 12 months that were numerically better with somatrogon than somatropin (similar results with QoLISSY-Parent in this age group). At both time points, children reported better HRQoL than perceived by their parents/caregivers. CONCLUSION Treatment for 12 months with once-weekly somatrogon or once-daily somatropin resulted in comparable improvements in HRQoL among children with pGHD. Lower HRQoL perceived by parents/caregivers possibly reflect children's tendency to emphasize adaptation. These results suggest that evaluation of HRQoL could help support treatment decisions in children with pGHD treated with growth hormone.
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Miller BS, Blair JC, Rasmussen MH, Maniatis A, Mori J, Böttcher V, Kim HS, Bang RB, Polak M, Horikawa R. Effective GH Replacement With Somapacitan in Children With GHD: REAL4 2-year Results and After Switch From Daily GH. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2023; 108:3090-3099. [PMID: 37406251 PMCID: PMC10655534 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgad394] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/28/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/07/2023]
Abstract
CONTEXT Somapacitan is a long-acting GH derivative for treatment of GH deficiency (GHD). OBJECTIVE Evaluate the efficacy and tolerability of somapacitan in children with GHD after 2 years of treatment and after the switch from daily GH. DESIGN A randomized, multinational, open-labelled, controlled parallel group phase 3 trial, comprising a 52-week main phase and 3-year safety extension (NCT03811535). SETTING Eighty-five sites across 20 countries. PATIENTS A total of 200 treatment-naïve prepubertal patients were randomized and exposed; 194 completed the 2-year period. INTERVENTIONS Patients were randomized 2:1 to somapacitan (0.16 mg/kg/wk) or daily GH (0.034 mg/kg/d) during the first year, after which all patients received somapacitan 0.16 mg/kg/wk. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES Height velocity (HV; cm/year) at week 104. Additional assessments included HV SD score (SDS), height SDS, IGF-I SDS, and observer-reported outcomes. RESULTS HV was sustained in both groups between 52 and 104 weeks. At week 104, mean (SD) for HV between weeks 52 and 104 was 8.4 (1.5) cm/year after continuous somapacitan treatment and 8.7 (1.8) cm/year after 1 year of somapacitan treatment following switch from daily GH. Secondary height-related endpoints also supported sustained growth. Mean IGF-I SDS during year 2 was similar between groups and within normal range (-2 to +2). Somapacitan was well tolerated, with no safety or tolerability issues identified. GH patient preference questionnaire results show that most patients and their caregivers (90%) who switched treatment at year 2 preferred once-weekly somapacitan over daily GH treatment. CONCLUSIONS Somapacitan in children with GHD showed sustained efficacy and tolerability for 2 years, and after switching from daily GH. Patients/caregivers switching from daily GH expressed a preference for somapacitan. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION NCT03811535.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley S Miller
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, University of Minnesota Medical School, MHealth Fairview Masonic Children's Hospital, Minneapolis, MN 55454, USA
| | - Joanne C Blair
- Department of Endocrinology, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L14 5AB, UK
| | | | | | - Jun Mori
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, Children's Medical Center, Osaka City General Hospital, Osaka 534-0021, Japan
| | - Volker Böttcher
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Metabolism, MVZ Endokrinologikum Frankfurt am Main, Frankfurt 60596, Germany
| | - Ho-Seong Kim
- Department of Pediatrics, Severance Children's Hospital, Institute of Endocrinology, Yonsei University College of Medicine, Seoul 03722, Republic of Korea
| | - Rikke Beck Bang
- Biostatistics Rare Disease and Advanced Therapies, Novo Nordisk A/S, Aalborg 9220, Denmark
| | - Michel Polak
- Service d’Endocrinologie, Gynécologie et Diabétologie Pédiatriques, Hôpital Universitaire Necker Enfants Malades Paris, Assistance Publique-Hôpitaux de Paris, Paris 75015, France
| | - Reiko Horikawa
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo 157-0074, Japan
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Takasawa K, Mabe H, Nagamatsu F, Amano N, Miyakawa Y, Sutani A, Kagawa R, Okada S, Tanahashi Y, Suzuki S, Hiroshima S, Nagasaki K, Dateki S, Takishima S, Takahashi I, Kashimada K. Growth Hormone Injection Log Analysis with Electronic Injection Device for Qualifying Adherence to Low-Irritant Formulation and Exploring Influential Factors on Adherence. Patient Prefer Adherence 2023; 17:1885-1894. [PMID: 37545653 PMCID: PMC10404042 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s417142] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/22/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Although the treatment success of long-term growth hormone therapy (GHT) is dependent on maintaining patients' adherence to treatment, marked variations in adherence levels among children with GHT (eg, 7-71% nonadherence) have been reported. Barriers to or promoters of GHT adherence have been discussed and investigated, and digital health technologies, such as electronic GH injection devices, may have the potential to assess adherence to GHT more accurately. Thus, we conducted a multicenter, retrospective cohort study using GH injection log analysis of an electronic GH device, GROWJECTOR®L, to qualify adherence and explore the factors influencing adherence. Methods This study enrolled 41 patients (median[range] age, 5.8[3.0 ~ 17.0] years) with short stature from nine Japanese medical institutions. The injection log data (12-48 weeks) were read by smartphones and collected into the data center through a cloud server. Results Although cumulative adherence rates remained higher than 95% throughout the observation period, five (12.2%) patients had low adherence (<85%). Subsequently, subgroup and logistic regression analyses for exploring factors affecting adherence revealed that self-selection of GH device and irregular injection schedule (ie, frequent injections after midnight) significantly affected adherence rate (p=0.034 and 0.048, respectively). In addition, higher rates of irregular injections significantly affected low adherence (median[range], 11.26[0.79 ~ 30.50]% vs 0.26[0.00 ~ 33.33]%, p = 0.029). Discussion Our study indicated that injection log analysis using an electronic GH device could detect irregular injection schedules due to a night owl or disturbance in lifetime rhythm affecting low adherence and had significant potential to encourage collaborative monitoring of adherence with healthcare providers and patients themselves/caregivers, along with growing autonomy and shared decision-making. Our study suggests the significance of narrative and personal approaches to adherence of patients with GHT and the usefulness of digital devices for such an approach and for removing various barriers to patient autonomy, leading to improvement and maintenance of adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kei Takasawa
- Department of Pediatrics and Developmental Biology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
| | - Hiroyo Mabe
- Department of Pediatrics, Kumamoto University Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Fusa Nagamatsu
- Department of Pediatrics, Kumamoto University Hospital, Kumamoto, Japan
| | - Naoko Amano
- Department of Pediatrics, Saitama City Hospital, Saitama, Japan
| | - Yuichi Miyakawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Kawaguchi Municipal Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Akito Sutani
- Department of Pediatrics, Kawaguchi Municipal Medical Center, Saitama, Japan
| | - Reiko Kagawa
- Department of Pediatrics, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Satoshi Okada
- Department of Pediatrics, Hiroshima University Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Yusuke Tanahashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Japan
| | - Shigeru Suzuki
- Department of Pediatrics, Asahikawa Medical University, Asahikawa, Japan
| | - Shota Hiroshima
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Homeostatic Regulation and Development, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Keisuke Nagasaki
- Division of Pediatrics, Department of Homeostatic Regulation and Development, Niigata University Graduate School of Medical and Dental Sciences, Niigata, Japan
| | - Sumito Dateki
- Department of Pediatrics, Nagasaki University Graduate School of Biomedical Sciences, Nagasaki, Japan
| | | | - Ikuko Takahashi
- Department of Pediatrics, Akita University Graduate School of Medicine, Akita, Japan
| | - Kenichi Kashimada
- Department of Pediatrics and Developmental Biology, Tokyo Medical and Dental University (TMDU), Tokyo, Japan
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Mameli C, Orso M, Calcaterra V, Wasniewska MG, Aversa T, Granato S, Bruschini P, Guadagni L, d'Angela D, Spandonaro F, Polistena B, Zuccotti G. Efficacy, safety, quality of life, adherence and cost-effectiveness of long-acting growth hormone replacement therapy compared to daily growth hormone in children with growth hormone deficiency: a systematic review and meta-analysis. Pharmacol Res 2023:106805. [PMID: 37236413 DOI: 10.1016/j.phrs.2023.106805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/19/2023] [Revised: 05/09/2023] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
We evaluated the efficacy, safety, adherence, quality of life (QoL) and cost-effectiveness of long-acting growth hormone (LAGH) vs daily growth hormone (GH) preparations in the treatment of growth hormone deficiency (GHD) in children. Systematic searches were performed in PubMed, Embase and Web of Science up to July 2022 on randomized and non-randomized studies involving children with GHD receiving LAGH as compared to daily GH. Meta-analyses for efficacy and safety were performed comparing different LAGH/daily GH formulations. From the initial 1,393 records, we included 16 studies for efficacy and safety, 8 studies for adherence and 2 studies for QoL. No studies reporting cost-effectiveness were found. Pooled mean differences of mean annualized height velocity (cm/year) showed no difference between LAGH and daily GH: Eutropin Plus® vs Eutropin® [-0.14 (-0.43, 0.15)], Eutropin Plus® vs Genotropin® [-0.74 (-1.83, 0.34)], Jintrolong® vs Jintropin AQ® [0.05 (-0.54, 0.65)], Somatrogon vs Genotropin® [-1.40 (-2.91, 0.10)], TransCon vs Genotropin® [0.93 (0.26, 1.61)]. Also, other efficacy and safety outcomes, QoL and adherence were comparable for LAGH and daily GH. Our results showed that, although most of the included studies had some concerns for risk of bias, regarding efficacy and safety all the LAGH formulations were similar to daily GH. Future high quality studies are needed to confirm these data. Adherence and QoL should be addressed from real-world data studies for both the mid and long term and in a larger population. Cost-effectiveness studies are needed to measure the economic impact of LAGH from the healthcare payer's perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chiara Mameli
- Department of Pediatrics, Buzzi Children's Hospital, Milan, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science, Università Di Milano, Milan, Italy.
| | - Massimiliano Orso
- C.R.E.A. Sanità (Centre for Applied Economic Research in Healthcare), Rome, Italy
| | - Valeria Calcaterra
- Department of Pediatrics, Ospedale dei Bambini V. Buzzi, Milan, Italy; Department of Internal Medicine and Therapeutics Università degli Studi di Pavia, Pavia, Italy
| | - Malgorzata Gabriela Wasniewska
- Pediatric Unit, AOU Policlinico "G. Martino", Messina, Italy; Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | - Tommaso Aversa
- Pediatric Unit, AOU Policlinico "G. Martino", Messina, Italy; Department of Human Pathology of Adulthood and Childhood, University of Messina, Messina, Italy
| | | | | | - Liliana Guadagni
- Department of Surgical and Biomedical Sciences, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
| | - Daniela d'Angela
- C.R.E.A. Sanità (Centre for Applied Economic Research in Healthcare), Rome, Italy; University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Federico Spandonaro
- C.R.E.A. Sanità (Centre for Applied Economic Research in Healthcare), Rome, Italy; San Raffaele University, Rome, Italy
| | - Barbara Polistena
- C.R.E.A. Sanità (Centre for Applied Economic Research in Healthcare), Rome, Italy; University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianvincenzo Zuccotti
- Department of Pediatrics, Buzzi Children's Hospital, Milan, Italy; Department of Biomedical and Clinical Science, Università Di Milano, Milan, Italy
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11
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Baños RM, Peltonen LM, Martin B, Koledova E. An Augmented Reality Mobile App (Easypod AR) as a Complementary Tool in the Nurse-Led Integrated Support of Patients Receiving Recombinant Human Growth Hormone: Usability and Validation Study. JMIR Nurs 2023; 6:e44355. [PMID: 37083627 PMCID: PMC10163401 DOI: 10.2196/44355] [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: 11/16/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 04/22/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Children with growth hormone deficiency face the prospect of long-term recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) treatment requiring daily injections. Adherence to treatment is important, especially at treatment initiation, to achieve positive health outcomes. Historically, telenursing services embedded in patient support programs (PSPs) have been a valid approach to support r-hGH treatment initiation and patient education and facilitate adherence by identifying and optimizing appropriate injection techniques. The development of mobile phones with augmented reality (AR) capabilities offers nurses new tools to support patient education. OBJECTIVE To investigate experiences among nurses of a new mobile phone app developed to support patient training with a phone-based PSP for r-hGH treatment. METHODS In 2020, the Easypod AR mobile app was launched to support nurse-driven telehealth education for patients initiating r-hGH therapy with the Easypod electromechanical auto-injector device. Nurses who were part of PSPs in countries where the Easypod AR app had been launched or where training was provided as part of an anticipated future launch of the app were invited to participate in an online survey based on the Mobile App Rating Scale to capture their feedback after using the app. RESULTS In total, 23 nurses completed the online questionnaire. They positively rated the quality of the app across multiple dimensions. The highest mean scores were 4.0 for engagement (ie, adaptation to the target group; SD 0.74), 4.1 (SD 0.79) for functionality (navigation) and 4.1 (SD 0.67) for aesthetics (graphics). Responses indicated the potential positive impact of such a tool on enhancing patient education, patient support, and communication between patients and PSP nurses. Some participants also suggested enhancements to the app, including gamification techniques that they felt have the potential to support the formation of positive treatment behaviors and habits. CONCLUSIONS This study highlights the potential for new digital health solutions to reinforce PSP nurse services, including patient education. Future studies could explore possible correlations between any behavioral and clinical benefits that patients may derive from the use of such apps and how they may contribute to support improved patient experiences and treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Maria Baños
- Department of Personality, Evaluation and Psychological Treatment, Faculty of Psychology, University of Valencia, Valencia, Spain
- Centro De Investigación Biomédica en Red of Physiopathology of Obesity and Nutrition, Carlos III Health Institute, Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Blaine Martin
- Global Digital Health, Ares Trading SA, an affiliate of Merck KGaA (Darmstadt, Germany), Eysins, Switzerland
| | - Ekaterina Koledova
- Global Medical Affairs Cardiometabolic & Endocrinology, The health care business of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
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12
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Assefi AR, Graham S, Crespo ML, Debicki M, Reston J, Gonzalez J, Jheeta A, Koledova E. Evaluating the TUITEK® patient support program in supporting caregivers of children diagnosed with growth hormone deficiency in Argentina. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2023; 14:1129385. [PMID: 37091843 PMCID: PMC10117813 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2023.1129385] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 04/08/2023] Open
Abstract
IntroductionThe appropriate use of recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) treatment provides an opportunity to improve growth outcomes among pediatric patients with growth hormone deficiency (GHD). However, a major challenge in clinical practice is to adequately recognize and address factors that negatively affect treatment adherence. TUITEK® patient support program (PSP) was designed to help caregivers of children diagnosed with GHD to personalize the care pathway, improve adherence, and achieve better outcomes. Effectiveness of TUITEK® PSP has been demonstrated previously in a smaller sample (n = 31) in Taiwanese population. Here, we present the results from Argentina.MethodsTUITEK® PSP was piloted among 76 caregivers of children with GHD administering r-hGH using easypod™ (Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany) auto-injector device in Argentina. Based on TUITEK® personalization questionnaire, caregivers were assigned to high- and low-risk groups across four categories that may influence adherence, including disease and treatment coherence (DTC), self-administration (SA), treatment-related anxiety (TRA), and emotional burden (EB). The caregivers who were included in atleast one high-risk group had the provision of telephone calls with a nurse practitioner every 2 weeks for 3 months. The Wilcoxon signed-rank test was employed to assess changes in questionnaire-based scoring patterns between baseline and follow-up evaluations.ResultsStatistically significant changes (p < 0.05) in questionnaire scores between baseline and follow-up evaluations were observed across the four categories. The mean/median DTC (n = 11) and SA (n = 23) scores changed from 2.45/3 and 2.17/2, respectively, to 4/4, with all the caregivers moving to low-risk group following program completion (100%) for both categories. The mean/median TRA score (n = 40) changed from 3.58/3 to 2.5/2 and 67.5% of patients (27/40) moved to low-risk group. The mean/median EB score (n = 32) changed from 3.69/3 to 3.13/3 however, none of the caregivers moved to low-risk group (0%).ConclusionTUITEK® PSP is a simple, practical, and time-efficient interventional tool that can be used to address key adherence-related issues among caregivers of children with GHD and provide personalized adherence support. Our findings demonstrate that TUITEK® PSP has the potential to improve treatment adherence and self-management, thereby improving growth outcomes in Argentina.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aria Reza Assefi
- Medical Department, Merck S.A. (an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - María Lourdes Crespo
- Medical Department, Merck S.A. (an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Matías Debicki
- Medical Department, Merck S.A. (an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Judit Gonzalez
- Medical Department, Merck S.A. (an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | | | - Ekaterina Koledova
- Global Medical Affairs Cardiometabolic and Endocrinology, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
- *Correspondence: Ekaterina Koledova,
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13
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Dimitri P, Fernandez-Luque L, Koledova E, Malwade S, Syed-Abdul S. Accelerating digital health literacy for the treatment of growth disorders: The impact of a massive open online course. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1043584. [PMID: 37143968 PMCID: PMC10151751 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1043584] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2022] [Accepted: 03/22/2023] [Indexed: 05/06/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is a rare disorder characterized by inadequate secretion of growth hormone (GH) from the anterior pituitary gland. One of the challenges in optimizing GH therapy is improving adherence. Using digital interventions may overcome barriers to optimum treatment delivery. Massive open online courses (MOOCs), first introduced in 2008, are courses made available over the internet without charge to a large number of people. Here, we describe a MOOC aiming to improve digital health literacy among healthcare professionals managing patients with GHD. Based on pre- and post-course assessments, we evaluate the improvement in participants' knowledge upon completion of the MOOC. Methods The MOOC entitled 'Telemedicine: Tools to Support Growth Disorders in a Post-COVID Era' was launched in 2021. It was designed to cover 4 weeks of online learning with an expected commitment of 2 h per week, and with two courses running per year. Learners' knowledge was assessed using pre- and post-course surveys via the FutureLearn platform. Results Out of 219 learners enrolled in the MOOC, 31 completed both the pre- and post-course assessments. Of the evaluated learners, 74% showed improved scores in the post-course assessment, resulting in a mean score increase of 21.3%. No learner achieved 100% in the pre-course assessment, compared with 12 learners (40%) who achieved 100% in the post-course assessment. The highest score increase comparing the pre- and the post-course assessments was 40%, observed in 16% of learners. There was a statistically significant improvement in post-course assessment scores from 58.1 ± 18.9% to 72.6 ± 22.4% reflecting an improvement of 14.5% (p < 0.0005) compared to the pre-course assessment. Conclusion This "first-of-its-kind" MOOC can improve digital health literacy in the management of growth disorders. This is a crucial step toward improving the digital capability and confidence of healthcare providers and users, and to prepare them for the technological innovations in the field of growth disorders and growth hormone therapy, with the aim of improving patient care and experience. MOOCs provide an innovative, scalable and ubiquitous solution to train large numbers of healthcare professionals in limited resource settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Dimitri
- NIHR Children and Young People MedTech Co-operative, Sheffield Children’s NHS Foundation Trust, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | | | - Ekaterina Koledova
- Global Medical Affairs Cardiometabolic and Endocrinology, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Shwetambara Malwade
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Informatics, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Shabbir Syed-Abdul
- Graduate Institute of Biomedical Informatics, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- School of Gerontology and Long-Term Care, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- International Center for Health Information Technology, Taipei Medical University, Taipei, Taiwan
- *Correspondence: Shabbir Syed-Abdul,
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14
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Interventions Designed to Improve Adherence to Growth Hormone Treatment for Pediatric Patients and Their Families: A Narrative Review. Pharmaceutics 2022; 14:pharmaceutics14112373. [DOI: 10.3390/pharmaceutics14112373] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2022] [Revised: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 11/02/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Even though growth hormone (GH) treatment is still the only active treatment option to correct growth failure and increase stature for patients with GH deficiencies, evidence has shown that non-adherence remains high. The aim of this review was to identify and review the existing interventional strategies that have been designed to address and improve adherence to GH treatment for pediatric patients and their families. An extensive search of several electronic databases was undertaken to identify relevant interventional studies, published in English, between 1985 and 2021. Additional search strategies included hand-searching topic review articles to identify eligible studies. Articles were screened against the inclusion eligibility criteria and data on sample characteristics, intervention features, and key findings was extracted. A total of fifteen interventional studies were included in the review. The interventions identified were divided into two broad categories: novel injection devices, and patient choice of device. In conclusions, this review acknowledges that there is a lack of evidence-based, theory-driven intervention strategies, designed with the purpose of optimizing treatment adherence and improve clinical and psychosocial outcomes.
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15
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Maniatis AK, Carakushansky M, Galcheva S, Prakasam G, Fox LA, Dankovcikova A, Loftus J, Palladino AA, de los Angeles Resa M, Turich Taylor C, Dattani MT, Lebl J. Treatment Burden of Weekly Somatrogon vs Daily Somatropin in Children With Growth Hormone Deficiency: A Randomized Study. J Endocr Soc 2022; 6:bvac117. [PMID: 36101713 PMCID: PMC9463876 DOI: 10.1210/jendso/bvac117] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Context Somatrogon is a long-acting recombinant human growth hormone treatment developed as a once-weekly treatment for pediatric patients with growth hormone deficiency (GHD). Objective Evaluate patient and caregiver perceptions of the treatment burden associated with the once-weekly somatrogon injection regimen vs a once-daily Somatropin injection regimen. Methods Pediatric patients (≥3 to <18 years) with GHD receiving once-daily somatropin at enrollment were randomized 1:1 to Sequence 1 (12 weeks of once-daily Somatropin, then 12 weeks of once-weekly somatrogon) or Sequence 2 (12 weeks of once-weekly somatrogon, then 12 weeks of once-daily Somatropin). Treatment burden was assessed using validated questionnaires completed by patients and caregivers. The primary endpoint was the difference in mean overall life interference (LI) total scores after each 12-week treatment period (somatrogon vs Somatropin), as assessed by questionnaires. Results Of 87 patients randomized to Sequence 1 (n = 43) or 2 (n = 44), 85 completed the study. Once-weekly somatrogon had a significantly lower treatment burden than once-daily Somatropin, based on mean overall LI total scores after somatrogon (8.63) vs Somatropin (24.13) treatment (mean difference –15.49; 2-sided 95% CI –19.71, –11.27; P < .0001). Once-weekly somatrogon was associated with greater convenience, higher satisfaction with treatment experience, and less LI. The incidence of treatment-emergent adverse events (TEAEs) for Somatropin and somatrogon was 44.2% and 54.0%, respectively. No severe or serious AEs were reported. Conclusion In pediatric patients with GHD, once-weekly somatrogon had a lower treatment burden and was associated with a more favorable treatment experience than once-daily Somatropin.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Gnanagurudasan Prakasam
- Sutter Medical Center and Center of Excellence in Diabetes and Endocrinology , Sacramento, CA 95821 , USA
| | - Larry A Fox
- Nemours Children’s Health , Jacksonville, FL 32207 , USA
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Mehul T Dattani
- UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health , London , UK
| | - Jan Lebl
- Department of Pediatrics, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University and University Hospital Motol , Prague , Czech Republic
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16
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Rini CJ, Roberts BC, Vaidyanathan A, Li A, Klug R, Sherman DB, Pettis RJ. Enabling faster subcutaneous delivery of larger volume, high viscosity fluids. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2022; 19:1165-1176. [PMID: 36053114 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2022.2116425] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/04/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Many current subcutaneous (SC) biologic therapies may require >1 mL volume or have increased viscosity, necessitating new delivery system approaches. This study evaluated 2-mL large-volume autoinjector (LVAI) delivery performance across varying solution viscosities and design inputs to assess the design space and identify configurations that produce practical injection times. METHODS Investigational LVAI delivery duration and volume, depot location, and tissue effects were examined in both air and in vivo models across various pre-filled syringe (PFS) cannula types (27 G Ultra-thin wall [UTW], 27 G special thin wall [STW], or 29 G thin-wall [TW]), drive spring forces (SFLOW or SFHIGH), and Newtonian solutions (2.3-50 centipoise [cP]). RESULTS Within each design configuration, increasing PFS internal diameters and spring forces reduced delivery times, while increasing viscosity increased times. The 27 G UTW PFS/SFHIGH combination achieved shorter delivery times across all injection conditions, with 2 mL in vivo durations <15 seconds at ≤31 cP and routinely <20 seconds at 39 and 51 cP, with nominal and transitory tissue effects. CONCLUSION PFS cannula and spring force combinations can be tailored to achieve various injection durations across viscosities, while UTW PFS enables faster rates to potentially better accommodate human factors during LVAI injection, especially at high viscosity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Christopher J Rini
- Translational and Clinical Sciences Center of Excellence, BD Technologies and Innovation, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Bruce C Roberts
- Translational and Clinical Sciences Center of Excellence, BD Technologies and Innovation, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Aishwarya Vaidyanathan
- Translational and Clinical Sciences Center of Excellence, BD Technologies and Innovation, Durham, NC, USA
| | | | - Rick Klug
- Translational and Clinical Sciences Center of Excellence, BD Technologies and Innovation, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Douglas B Sherman
- Translational and Clinical Sciences Center of Excellence, BD Technologies and Innovation, Durham, NC, USA
| | - Ronald J Pettis
- Translational and Clinical Sciences Center of Excellence, BD Technologies and Innovation, Durham, NC, USA
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17
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Jiang Z, Chen X, Dong G, Lou Y, Zhang J, Cheng X, Pan J, Liao W, Wu J, Huang X, Jin X, Liu D, Zeng T, Zhu S, Dong Q, Luo X, Lan D, Cao L, Zhang X, Liu J, Dai M, Zhang M, Liu L, Dong J, Zhao D, Ni S, Fu J. Short-term efficacy and safety of a lower dose of polyethylene glycol recombinant human growth hormone in children with growth hormone deficiency: A randomized, dose-comparison study. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:955809. [PMID: 36034802 PMCID: PMC9402941 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.955809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective: Polyethylene glycol recombinant human growth hormone (PEG-rhGH, Jintrolong®) is the first long-acting rhGH preparation that is approved to treat children with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) in China. Clinical experience with dose selections of PEG-rhGH is scarce. The present study compared the efficacy and safety of a lower dose to increase dosing regimens of PEG-rhGH treatment. Methods: A multicenter, randomized, open-label, dose-comparison clinical study was conducted to compare the improvements in the height standard deviation score (Ht SDS), height velocity (HV), insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) SDS, and safety profiles of children with GHD who are treated with 0.2 mg/kg/week of PEG-rhGH dose or 0.14 mg/kg/week for 26 weeks. Results: Ht SDS, HV, and IGF-1 SDS increased significantly after PEG-rhGH treatment in the two dose groups (p < 0.05). The improvements of Ht SDS, HV, and IGF-1 SDS were more significant in the high-dose group than in the low-dose group (p < 0.05). Ht SDS improvement in low-dose group was not non-inferiority to that in the high-dose group (p = 0.2987). The incidences of adverse events were comparable between the two groups. Conclusion: The improvements of Ht SDS, HV, and IGF-1 SDS were more significant in the high-dose group than in the low-dose group (p < 0.05). PEG-rhGH at the dose of 0.14 mg/kg/week was effective and safe for children with GHD. Clinical Trial Registration:clinicaltrials.gov, identifier NCT02908958.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhouhong Jiang
- Department of Pharmacy, The Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xuefeng Chen
- Department of Endocrinology, The Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guanping Dong
- Department of Endocrinology, The Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yin Lou
- Department of Pharmacy, The Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jianping Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Ningbo Women’s and Children’s Hospital, Ningbo, China
| | - Xinran Cheng
- Department of Pediatric Endocrine Genetics and Metabolism, Chengdu Women’s and Children’s Center Hospital, Chengdu, China
| | - Jiayan Pan
- Department of Pediatrics, Wuhu First People’s Hospital, Wuhu, China
| | - Wei Liao
- Department of Pediatrics, First Affiliated Hospital of Army Medical University (Third Military Medical University), Chongqing, China
| | - Jinzhun Wu
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Xiamen, China
| | - Xiaodong Huang
- Department of Endocrinology and Genetics, Shanghai Children’s Medical Center, Shanghai Jiaotong University School of Medicine, Shanghai, China
| | - Xianjiang Jin
- Department of Genetics and Endocrinology, The Second Affiliated Hospital and Yuying Children’s Hospital of Wenzhou Medical University, Wenzhou, China
| | - Deyun Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Affiliated Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Ting Zeng
- Department of Child Health Care, Liuzhou Maternity and Child Healthcare Hospital, Liuzhou, China
| | - Shunye Zhu
- Department of Pediatrics, The Third Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat-Sen University, Guangzhou, China
| | - Qin Dong
- Department of Pediatrics, Zhejiang Provincial Hospital of Chinese Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Xiaoming Luo
- Department of Pediatrics, Zhejiang Provincial People’s Hospital, People’s Hospital of Hangzhou Medical College, Hangzhou, China
| | - Dan Lan
- Department of Pediatrics, The First Affiliated Hospital of Guangxi Medical University, Nanning, China
| | - Lizhi Cao
- Department of Pediatrics, Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Xingxing Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, The Second Xiangya Hospital, Central South University, Changsha, China
| | - Jing Liu
- Department of Pediatrics, Changchun Children’s Hospital, Changchun, China
| | - Mingjuan Dai
- Department of Pediatrics, Hangzhou First People’s Hospital, Hangzhou, China
| | - Manyan Zhang
- Department of Pediatrics, Shaoxing Second Hospital, Shaoxing, China
| | - Li Liu
- Department of Genetics and Endocrinology, Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center, Guangzhou, China
| | - Junhua Dong
- Department of Pediatrics, Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Dongmei Zhao
- Pediatric Research Institute, Qilu Children’s Hospital of Shandong University, Jinan, China
| | - Shaoqing Ni
- National Clinical Trial Institute, The Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
- Research Center for Clinical Pharmacy, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Junfen Fu, ; Shaoqing Ni,
| | - Junfen Fu
- Department of Endocrinology, The Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
- The Children’s Hospital, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, National Clinical Research Center for Child Health, Hangzhou, China
- *Correspondence: Junfen Fu, ; Shaoqing Ni,
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Horikawa R, Tanaka T, Hasegawa Y, Yorifuji T, Ng D, Rosenfeld RG, Hoshino Y, Okayama A, Shima D, Gomez R, Pastrak A, Castellanos O. Efficacy and Safety of Once-Weekly Somatrogon Compared with Once-Daily Somatropin (Genotropin®) in Japanese Children with Pediatric Growth Hormone Deficiency: Results from a Randomized Phase 3 Study. Horm Res Paediatr 2022; 95:275-285. [PMID: 35417909 PMCID: PMC9533447 DOI: 10.1159/000524600] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Somatrogon is a long-acting recombinant human growth hormone being developed as a once-weekly treatment for children with growth hormone deficiency (GHD). The objective of this phase 3 study (NCT03874013) was to compare the efficacy and safety of once-weekly somatrogon with once-daily Genotropin in Japanese children with GHD. METHODS In this open-label, randomized, active-controlled study, 44 prepubertal Japanese children with GHD (boys: 3 to <11 years; girls: 3 to <10 years) were randomized 1:1 to receive once-weekly somatrogon or once-daily Genotropin (0.025 mg/kg/day) for 12 months. Dose escalation for somatrogon-treated subjects occurred in the first 6 weeks (0.25, 0.48, and 0.66 mg/kg/week; 2 weeks each) with the remaining 46 weeks at a dose of 0.66 mg/kg/week. The study's primary endpoint was annualized height velocity (HV) at 12 months. RESULTS Baseline characteristics were similar between treatment groups. Compared with Genotropin-treated subjects, somatrogon-treated subjects had higher least-squares mean HV at 12 months (9.65 cm/year vs. 7.87 cm/year). Once-weekly somatrogon was concluded as being comparable to once-daily Genotropin as the mean treatment difference (somatrogon-Genotropin) in HV was +1.79 cm/year (95% confidence interval, 0.97-2.61), which was greater than the preestablished margin (-1.8 cm/year). For both treatment groups, most adverse events were mild to moderate in severity and a similar proportion of subjects reported injection-site pain, although the somatrogon group reported more painful injections. CONCLUSION In prepubertal Japanese children with GHD, once-weekly somatrogon was comparable to once-daily Genotropin in terms of annualized (12-month) HV. Both treatments had similar safety and tolerability profiles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reiko Horikawa
- National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan,*Reiko Horikawa,
| | | | | | - Tohru Yorifuji
- Children's Medical Center, Osaka City General Hospital, Osaka, Japan
| | - David Ng
- WuXi Clinical, Austin, Texas, USA
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Savage MO, Fernandez-Luque L, Graham S, van Dommelen P, Araujo M, de Arriba A, Koledova E. Adherence to r-hGH Therapy in Pediatric Growth Hormone Deficiency: Current Perspectives on How Patient-Generated Data Will Transform r-hGH Treatment Towards Integrated Care. Patient Prefer Adherence 2022; 16:1663-1671. [PMID: 35846871 PMCID: PMC9285863 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s271453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/21/2022] [Accepted: 07/08/2022] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Pediatric growth hormone (GH) deficiency is a licensed indication for replacement therapy with recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH). Treatment, consisting of daily subcutaneous injections, extends from the time of diagnosis until cessation of linear growth at completion of puberty. Suboptimal adherence to r-hGH therapy is common and has been well documented to substantially impair the growth response and achievement of the optimal goal which is attainment of adult height within the genetic target range. The causes of poor adherence are complex and include disease-, patient-, doctor-, and treatment-related factors. Interventions for suboptimal adherence are important for a long-term successful outcome and can include both face-to-face and digital strategies. Face-to-face interventions include behavioral change approaches such as motivational interviewing and non-judgmental assessment. Medical and nursing staff require training in these techniques. Digital solutions are rapidly advancing as evidenced by the electronic digital auto-injector device, easypod® (Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), which uses the web-based easypod® connect platform allowing adherence data to be transmitted electronically to healthcare professionals (HCPs), who can then access GH treatment history, enhancing clinical decisions. Over the past 10 years, the multi-national Easypod® Connect Observational Study has reported high levels of adherence (>85%) from up to 40 countries. The easypod® connect system can be supported by a smartphone app, growlink™, which facilitates the interactions between the patients, their care team, and patient support services. HCPs are empowered by new digital techniques, however, the human-digital partnership remains essential for optimal growth management. The pediatric patient on r-hGH therapy will benefit from these innovations to enhance adherence and optimize long-term response.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin O Savage
- Centre for Endocrinology, William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, London, UK
| | | | | | - Paula van Dommelen
- The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research TNO, Leiden, the Netherlands
| | - Matheus Araujo
- Neurological Institute; Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, OH, USA
| | - Antonio de Arriba
- Paediatric Endocrinology, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ekaterina Koledova
- Global Medical Affairs Cardiometabolic & Endocrinology, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
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20
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Eslami P, Sayarifard F, Safdari R, Shahmoradi L, Karbasi Z. Global perspective on pediatric growth hormone registries: a systematic review. J Pediatr Endocrinol Metab 2022; 35:709-726. [PMID: 35567286 DOI: 10.1515/jpem-2022-0045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Registries are considered valuable data sources for identification of pediatric conditions treated with growth hormone (GH), and their follow-up. Currently, there is no systematic literature review on the scope and characteristics of pediatric GH registries. Therefore, the purpose of this systematic review is to identify worldwide registries reported on pediatric GH treatment and to provide a summary of their main characteristics. CONTENT Pediatric GH registries were identified through a systematic literature review. The search was performed on all related literature published up to January 30th, 2021. Basic information on pediatric GH registries, their type and scope, purpose, sources of data, target conditions, reported outcomes, and important variables were analyzed and presented. SUMMARY Twenty two articles, reporting on 20 pediatric GH registries, were included in this review. Industrial funding was the most common funding source. The main target conditions included in the pediatric GH registries were: growth hormone deficiency, Turner syndrome, Prader Willi syndrome, small for gestational age, idiopathic short stature, and chronic renal insufficiency. The main objectives in establishing and running pediatric GH registries were assessing the safety and effectiveness of the treatment, describing the epidemiological aspects of target growth conditions and populations, serving public health surveillance, predicting and measuring treatment outcomes, exploring new and useful aspects of GH treatment, and improving the quality of patient care. OUTLOOK This systematic review provides a global perspective on pediatric GH registries which can be used as a basis for the design and development of new GH registry systems at both national and international levels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Parisa Eslami
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Sayarifard
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, Growth and Development Research Center, Children's Medical Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Reza Safdari
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Leila Shahmoradi
- Department of Health Information Management, School of Allied Medical Sciences, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Zahra Karbasi
- Department of Health Information Sciences, Faculty of Management and Medical Information Sciences, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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21
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Attia AIMM, Atef A, Badawi N, Abdou M, Yassin S, Helmy E, Ibrahim HAA. Growth Velocity and Economic Aspects of Human Growth Hormone Treatment in an Egyptian Cohort with Multiple Pituitary Hormone Deficiency: A Retrospective Minireview. Open Access Maced J Med Sci 2022. [DOI: 10.3889/oamjms.2022.9060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Abstract
Background: Multiple pituitary hormone deficiency (MPHD) is a chronic lifelong disease. Human recombinant growth hormone (hGH) treatment is the optimal therapy for short stature in children with growth hormone (GH) deficiency in patients with MPHD and can effectively increase growth velocity (GV) to attain adult heights within the target range. Objective: to assess the GV during hGH treatment of children with MPHD, to analyze the characteristics of patients and to investigate the possible factors that might affect their height gain. Methods: Data from 18 (8 females) children and adolescents with MPHD with GH, thyroid stimulating hormone, gonadotropin and adrenocorticotropic hormone deficiencies were collected. Subjects were divided into groups: 12 pubescent patients and 6 pre-pubescent patients. Anthropometric measurements were reported regularly for one year. Results: age at onset of study was 13.44±4.66 years. CT and MRI findings were positive in 77.8 %. Peak GH levels after Clonidine and Insulin were 4.06±2.61 and 5.39±4.2 ng/ml respectively. GH was received in a dose of 0.95±0.5 mg/day. Height gain during the period of the study was 3.5±0.47cm /year. The predicted adult height at the first and last visits and delta predicted adult height between the first and last visits were 155.78±10.159, 156.71±7.22 and 0.93±4.64 cm respectively. The cost in dollars was identified using Markov cost-effectiveness simulation model as 98.87±52.4 dollars per one cm height gain, with a total of 346.07±183.42 US dollars/patient/year. For a hGH dose of 0.02±0.01 mg/kg/d (0.95±0.5mg/day). There was a positive correlation between height gain during the study period and both the height SDS at presentation and dose of GH mg/kg/d. Conclusion: the height gain and the cost were higher amongst females than males with MPHD. Height at presentation and hGH dose seemed to be an effective predictor for height gain in patients with MPHD.
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22
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Jouret B, Tauber M. Relationship between adherence to growth hormone therapy and growth. Arch Pediatr 2022; 28:8S9-8S13. [PMID: 37870533 DOI: 10.1016/s0929-693x(22)00037-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
Adherence to growth hormone (GH) therapy in children is variable and remains a problem which can significantly affect the response to GH treatment and future health and also have economic consequences. The response to GH treatment is not predictable at the start of treatment and depends on several factors, the main one being the diagnosis. Knowing the factors associated with poor adherence before treatment initiation can improve the response to treatment. © 2022 French Society of Pediatrics. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Jouret
- Hôpital des Enfants, Endocrinology Unit, CHU de Toulouse, France.
| | - M Tauber
- Hôpital des Enfants, Endocrinology Unit, CHU de Toulouse, France
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23
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Bouhours-Nouet N, Teinturier C. Long-acting recombinant human growth hormone in the treatment of pediatric growth hormone deficiency, how far have we got? Arch Pediatr 2022; 28:8S14-8S20. [PMID: 37870528 DOI: 10.1016/s0929-693x(22)00038-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
Abstract
The widespread availability of recombinant human growth hormone (GH) since 1985 has made it possible to extend growth hormone therapy indications for children with different etiologies of short stature. It is now accepted that GH is effective in increasing height velocity in children with GH deficiency (GHD) and well tolerated in both the short and long terms. Nevertheless, one major factor in the inter-individual variability of the growth response to GH in GHD children is adherence to daily injections. In an attempt to improve patient adherence, there has been a strong effort from industry to create a long-acting form of growth hormone to ease the burden of its use. It is theorized that by decreasing injection frequency, Long-Acting GH (LAGH) would improve adherence and therefore outcomes. These agents can be divided broadly into depot formulations, PEGylated formulations, prodrug formulations, noncovalent albumin-binding GH and GH fusion proteins. In 2021, two LAGH formulations are on the market in China and South Korea, and several promising agents are under clinical investigation at various stages of development throughout the world. A number of safety issues related to LAGH have been identified and need to be further investigated. © 2022 French Society of Pediatrics. Published by Elsevier Masson SAS. All rights reserved.
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Affiliation(s)
- N Bouhours-Nouet
- Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology Unit, Angers University Hospital, Angers, France; Reference center for rare diseases of thyroid origin, Angers University Hospital, Angers, France; Reference center for rare diseases of pituitary origin (constitutive center), Angers University Hospital, Angers, France
| | - C Teinturier
- Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetology Unit, Le Kremlin-Bicêtre University Hospital, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France; Reference center for rare diseases of pituitary origin (constitutive center), Le Kremlin-Bicêtre University Hospital, Le Kremlin Bicêtre, France.
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24
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Gomez R, Ahmed SF, Maghnie M, Li D, Tanaka T, Miller BS. Treatment Adherence to Injectable Treatments in Pediatric Growth Hormone Deficiency Compared With Injectable Treatments in Other Chronic Pediatric Conditions: A Systematic Literature Review. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:795224. [PMID: 35299969 PMCID: PMC8921265 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.795224] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pediatric patients with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) are currently treated with daily injections of recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) to promote linear growth and enable attainment of normal adult height. One of the main reasons for suboptimal growth during rhGH therapy is non-adherence to treatment. The objective of this systematic literature review was to examine the recent literature on pediatric adherence to injectable treatments for chronic conditions (focusing on rhGH) to characterize levels of adherence and identify the factors/barriers associated with adherence. METHODS The Embase and MEDLINE databases (January 2015-October 2020) were searched to identify publications describing studies of pediatric patients (aged ≤17 years) with GHD and other chronic conditions requiring daily or weekly injectable treatments; a similar targeted search of Chinese literature was also performed. Adherence data were extracted from the included studies and summarized. Risk of bias was determined using the Cochrane Risk of Bias tool 2 or the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. RESULTS A total of 23 publications were included, with all publications except for one (multiple sclerosis) focused on pediatric GHD studies: there were two clinical trials, 18 observational studies and three survey studies. Study sample sizes ranged from 30 to 13,553 patients (median: 95 patients). The definition of adherence varied between studies and included mean adherence rate, median adherence rate, and the percentage of patients within pre-specified adherence categories. Of the publications assessing adherence to daily rhGH, 11 studies reported 12-month mean adherence rate (range: 73.3%- 95.3%) and eight studies reported median adherence (range: 91%- 99.2%). The barriers to treatment adherence identified included self-administration, increased administration frequency, age (adolescence), longer treatment duration, device design, and insufficient family education, awareness, and/or engagement. Recommendations for increasing adherence included using adherence reminder tools, increasing patient engagement/education, and improving injection device design and drug product. CONCLUSIONS Adherence to rhGH treatment was high (>80%) for many studies, though comparability between studies was limited given the substantial heterogeneity in the way adherence was defined, measured, and reported. To address this heterogeneity, we recommend standardizing how adherence is defined and reported and encourage the use of standardized study designs and outcome measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Roy Gomez
- Global Medical Affairs, Pfizer, Ixelles, Belgium
- *Correspondence: Roy Gomez,
| | - S. Faisal Ahmed
- Developmental Endocrinology Research Group, School of Medicine, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, United Kingdom
| | - Mohamad Maghnie
- Clinica Pediatrica, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini, Genoa, Italy
- Department of Neurosciences, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy
| | - Dejun Li
- Center for Prenatal Diagnosis and Reproductive Medicine, The First Hospital of Jilin University, Changchun, China
| | | | - Bradley S. Miller
- Pediatric Endocrinology Division, University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital, Minneapolis, MN, United States
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25
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Carbonell-Duacastella C, Rubio-Valera M, Marqués-Ercilla S, Peñarrubia-María MT, Gil-Girbau M, Garcia-Cardenas V, Pasarín MI, Parody-Rúa E, Aznar-Lou I. Pediatric Medication Noninitiation in Spain. Pediatrics 2022; 149:184034. [PMID: 34957504 PMCID: PMC9647521 DOI: 10.1542/peds.2020-034371] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/06/2021] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES To estimate medication noninitiation prevalence in the pediatric population and identify the explanatory factors underlying this behavior. METHODS Observational study of patients (<18 years old) receiving at least 1 new prescription (28 pharmaceutical subgroups; July 2017 to June 2018) in Catalonia, Spain. A prescription was considered new when there was no prescription for the same pharmaceutical subgroup in the previous 6 months. Noninitiation occurred when a prescription was not filled within 1 month or 6 months (sensitivity analysis). Prevalence was estimated as the proportion of total prescriptions not initiated. To identify explanatory factors, a multivariable multilevel logistic regression model was used, and adjusted odds ratios were reported. RESULTS Overall, 1 539 003 new prescriptions were issued to 715 895 children. The overall prevalence of 1-month noninitiation was 9.0% (ranging from 2.6% [oral antibiotics] to 21.5% [proton pump inhibitors]), and the prevalence of 6-month noninitiation was 8.5%. Noninitiation was higher in the youngest and oldest population groups, in children from families with a 0% copayment rate (vulnerable populations) and those with conditions from external causes. Out-of-pocket costs of drugs increased the odds of noninitiation. The odds of noninitiation were lower when the prescription was issued by a pediatrician (compared with a primary or secondary care clinician). CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of noninitiation of medical treatments in pediatrics is high and varies according to patients' ages and medical groups. Results suggest that there are inequities in access to pharmacologic treatments in this population that must be taken into account by health care planners and providers.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cristina Carbonell-Duacastella
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu (IRSJD), Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain,Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain,Center for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health Network (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain,School of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Rubio-Valera
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu (IRSJD), Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain,Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain,Center for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health Network (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain,Address correspondence to Maria Rubio-Valera, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Deu, Carrer Pablo Picasso 12, 08830, Sant Boi de Llobregat, Barcelona, Spain. E-mail:
| | - Sílvia Marqués-Ercilla
- Basic Health Area (ABS) Bartomeu Fabrés Anglada, Direcció d'Atenció Primària Costa Ponent, Institut Català de la Salut, Gavà, Spain,Unitat de Suport a la Recerca Costa Ponent, Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAP JGol), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Maria Teresa Peñarrubia-María
- Center for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health Network (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain,Basic Health Area (ABS) Bartomeu Fabrés Anglada, Direcció d'Atenció Primària Costa Ponent, Institut Català de la Salut, Gavà, Spain,Unitat de Suport a la Recerca Costa Ponent, Fundació Institut Universitari per a la recerca a l'Atenció Primària de Salut Jordi Gol i Gurina (IDIAP JGol), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Montserrat Gil-Girbau
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu (IRSJD), Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain,Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain,Primary Care Prevention and Health Promotion Network (redIAPP), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Victoria Garcia-Cardenas
- Graduate School of Health, Faculty of Health, University of Technology Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Maria Isabel Pasarín
- Center for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health Network (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain,Barcelona Public Health Agency (ASPB), Barcelona, Spain,Sant Pau Biomedical Research Institute, Barcelona, Spain,Department of Experimental and Health Sciences, Pompeu Fabra University, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Elizabeth Parody-Rúa
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu (IRSJD), Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain,Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain,Primary Care Prevention and Health Promotion Network (redIAPP), Barcelona, Spain
| | - Ignacio Aznar-Lou
- Institut de Recerca Sant Joan de Déu (IRSJD), Esplugues de Llobregat, Spain,Teaching, Research & Innovation Unit, Parc Sanitari Sant Joan de Déu, Barcelona, Spain,Center for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health Network (CIBERESP), Madrid, Spain
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26
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van Dommelen P, Arnaud L, Koledova E. Curve matching to predict growth in patients receiving growth hormone therapy: An interpretable & explainable method. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:999077. [PMID: 36277722 PMCID: PMC9579689 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.999077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 09/16/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Curve matching may be used to predict growth outcomes using data of patients whose growth curves resemble those of a new patient with growth hormone deficiency (GHD) and those born small for gestational age (SGA). We aimed to investigate the validity of curve matching to predict growth in patients with GHD and those born SGA receiving recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH). Height data collected between 0-48 months of treatment were extracted from the easypod™ connect ecosystem and the easypod™ connect observational study. Selected patients with height standard deviation scores (HSDS) [-4, <-1] and age [3, <16y] at start were included. The 'Matching Database' consisted of patients' monthly HSDS obtained by the broken stick method and imputation. Standard deviation (SD) was obtained from the observed minus the predicted HSDS (error) based on matched patients within the 'Matching Database'. Data were available for 3,213 patients in the 'Matching Database', and 2,472 patients with 16,624 HSDS measurements in the observed database. When ≥2 HSDS measurements were available, the error SD for a one-year prediction was approximately 0.2, which corresponds to 1.1 cm, 1.3 cm, and 1.5 cm at 7, 11, and 15 years of age, respectively. Indication and age at treatment start (<11 vs ≥11 years) had a small impact on the error SD, with patients born SGA and patients aged <11 years at treatment start generally having slightly lower values. We conclude that curve matching is a simple and valid technique for predicting growth in patients with GHD and those born SGA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula van Dommelen
- Department of Child Health, The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research (TNO), Leiden, Netherlands
- *Correspondence: Paula van Dommelen,
| | - Lilian Arnaud
- Global Digital Health, Ares Trading S.A. (an affiliate of Merck KGaA), Eysins, Switzerland
| | - Ekaterina Koledova
- Global Medical Affairs Cardiometabolic & Endocrinology, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
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27
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Tornincasa V, Dixon D, Le Masne Q, Martin B, Arnaud L, van Dommelen P, Koledova E. Integrated Digital Health Solutions in the Management of Growth Disorders in Pediatric Patients Receiving Growth Hormone Therapy: A Retrospective Analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:882192. [PMID: 35846336 PMCID: PMC9281444 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.882192] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2022] [Accepted: 06/06/2022] [Indexed: 01/31/2023] Open
Abstract
Digital health has seen rapid advancements over the last few years in helping patients and their healthcare professionals better manage treatment for a variety of illnesses, including growth hormone (GH) therapy for growth disorders in children and adolescents. For children and adolescents requiring such therapy, as well as for their parents, the treatment is longitudinal and often involves daily injections plus close progress monitoring; a sometimes daunting task when young children are involved. Here, we describe our experience in offering devices and digital health tools to support GH therapy across some 40 countries. We also discuss how this ecosystem of care has evolved over the years based on learnings and advances in technology. Finally, we offer a glimpse of future planned enhancements and directions for digital health to play a bigger role in better managing conditions treated with GH therapy, as well as model development for adherence prediction. The continued aim of these technologies is to improve clinical decision making and support for GH-treated patients, leading to better outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - David Dixon
- Ares Trading S.A. (an affiliate of Merck KGaA), Eysins, Switzerland
| | - Quentin Le Masne
- Ares Trading S.A. (an affiliate of Merck KGaA), Eysins, Switzerland
| | - Blaine Martin
- Ares Trading S.A. (an affiliate of Merck KGaA), Eysins, Switzerland
| | - Lilian Arnaud
- Ares Trading S.A. (an affiliate of Merck KGaA), Eysins, Switzerland
| | - Paula van Dommelen
- Department of Child Health, The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research TNO, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Ekaterina Koledova
- Global Medical Affairs Cardiometabolic & Endocrinology, Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
- *Correspondence: Ekaterina Koledova,
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Su PH, Malik S, Jheeta A, Lin YF, Su SH, Koledova E, Graham S. Investigating the Impact of the TUITEK ® Patient Support Programme, Designed to Support Caregivers of Children Prescribed Recombinant Human Growth Hormone Treatment in Taiwan. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2022; 13:897956. [PMID: 35600589 PMCID: PMC9120661 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2022.897956] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Accepted: 04/07/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE Poor adherence to recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) treatment presents a significant barrier to achieving optimal growth outcomes. It is important to identify and address the treatment adherence-related needs of children prescribed r-hGH treatment, and develop new approaches to improve adherence. We aimed to measure the impact of the TUITEK® patient support programme, a multi-component personalized service intervention, on caregivers' knowledge, beliefs, and perceptions of short stature and adherence to its treatment. PATIENTS AND METHODS The evaluation of the TUITEK® patient support programme was conducted among 31 caregivers of children with short stature and receiving r-hGH treatment via the easypod™ auto-injector device in Taiwan. Caregivers within the 'high risk' category for knowledge, beliefs and perception factors influencing adherence to r-hGH treatment (disease and treatment coherence, emotional burden, self-administration, and treatment-related anxiety) were identified via the TUITEK® personalization questionnaire and followed up with bi-weekly telephone calls by a nurse practitioner over a 3-month period. A Wilcoxon signed-rank test was used to compare changes in questionnaire-based scoring patterns between baseline and follow-up. RESULTS Between baseline and follow-up, the percentage of caregivers scoring as 'high risk' for emotional burden reduced by 37%; there was an improvement in confidence of self-administration by 57% and the percentage of caregivers scoring as 'high risk' for treatment-related anxiety reduced by 52%. At follow-up, all caregivers classified as 'high risk' within the disease and treatment coherence item at baseline moved into the 'low risk' category. Statistically significant changes in questionnaire scores between baseline and follow-up for disease and treatment understanding, emotional burden, self-administration, and treatment-related anxiety were also observed. CONCLUSION These findings indicate that the TUITEK® patient support programme can positively address disease and treatment-related barriers amongst caregivers regarding optimal adherence of their children to r-hGH treatment, which has the potential to positively impact on adherence levels and patient clinical health outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pen-Hua Su
- School of Medicine, Chung-Shan Medical University, Taichung City, Taiwan
- Department of Pediatrics and Genetics, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, Taiwan
| | | | | | - Yen-Fan Lin
- Medical Affairs Department, Merck Ltd., Taiwan, An Affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany, Taipei City, Taiwan
| | - Su-Huei Su
- Department of Pediatrics and Genetics, Chung Shan Medical University Hospital, Taichung City, Taiwan
| | - Ekaterina Koledova
- Empowered Health, Global Medical Affairs Cardiometabolic and Endocrinology, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
- *Correspondence: Ekaterina Koledova,
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29
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Akazawa M, Shima D, Sato T, Shoji E, LoPresti M, Nishi R. Perception of Adherence to Daily Human Growth Hormone Treatments Among Pediatric and Adolescent Patients in Japan: A Cross-Sectional Survey of Physicians and Caregivers. Patient Prefer Adherence 2022; 16:3081-3094. [PMID: 36387049 PMCID: PMC9661995 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s380871] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2022] [Accepted: 10/18/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poor adherence to daily human growth hormone (hGH) treatment has been shown to be associated with poor clinical outcomes for growth hormone deficiency (GHD) patients. However, few studies have examined the perception of adherence to hGH treatment among both physicians and caregivers in Japan. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study is to examine the perception of adherence for daily hGH treatment among physicians and caregivers of pediatric and adolescent patients treated with GH in Japan. Moreover, we explore reasons for skipping treatment and the potential impact of a once-weekly treatment on adherence. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Japan among physicians that prescribe daily hGH treatment and caregivers that have administered daily hGH treatment to children/adolescents for 3 months or longer. The Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS-8) was used to gauge perceived adherence for both physician and caregiver groups. Caregivers were also questioned regarding reasons for missing injections. Moreover, both groups were asked about the impact of a once-weekly treatment on adherence. RESULTS Responses were collected from 123 physicians and 112 caregivers. Physicians reported that 18.1% of patients have poor adherence based on the MMAS-8 instrument. In contrast, 32.1% of the caregivers reported poor adherence. "Simply forgetting", "Patient refused/resisted", and being "Busy with school activities, etc" were the most commonly selected reasons by caregivers for missing an injection. Physicians felt that a once-weekly injection could improve adherence for 64.5% of patients with poor adherence. Moreover, 56.9% of the caregivers that reported an experience of missed injections felt that a once-weekly injection would improve their adherence. CONCLUSION Approaches to improve adherence to hGH treatment in Japan are continuously needed. While further research is needed to understand factors most likely to improve adherence, availability of a once-weekly treatment is expected to help improve adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Manabu Akazawa
- Department of Public Health and Epidemiology, Meiji Pharmaceutical University, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Daisuke Shima
- Medical Affairs, Rare Disease, Pfizer Japan Inc, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Takahiro Sato
- Medical Affairs, Rare Disease, Pfizer Japan Inc, Tokyo, Japan
- Correspondence: Takahiro Sato, Medical Affairs, Rare Disease, Pfizer Japan Inc, 3-22-7 Yoyogi, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo, 151-8589, Japan, Tel +81 90-2935-0848, Email
| | - Emi Shoji
- Medical Affairs, Rare Disease, Pfizer Japan Inc, Tokyo, Japan
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30
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de Arriba Muñoz A, Muñiz VC, Saez JJA, Beisti A, Llovet E, Aizpún JIL. Impact of adherence on growth response during the first 2 years of growth hormone treatment. Endocrine 2021; 72:513-523. [PMID: 33284395 DOI: 10.1007/s12020-020-02560-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Accepted: 11/18/2020] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Adherence to growth hormone (GH) treatment impacts clinical outcomes. The aim of this study is to assess the impact of adherence to rhGH treatment (2 years) on auxological outcomes. METHODS Multicentric, retrospective observational study in rhGH-naïve GHD/SGA children treated with Saizen® during ≥2 years. Growth response was assessed by evaluating the change in height standard deviation score (ΔH SDS) and the index of responsiveness (IoR). Adherence was monitored using EasyPod™ Connect device. RESULTS A total of 110 patients (3 Spanish centers) were evaluable (GHD n = 76, SGA n = 34). Adherence was 95.6 and 93.9% (year 1, 2). SGA and GHD children showed an increase of 0.6 cm/year and 1.1 cm/year for each 10% adherence modification. Lower adherence was observed in patients with lower pretreatment height velocity (HV) and in patients whose parents had a lower level of education. A positive correlation between index of responsiveness (IoR) during the first and second years with HV SDS during the second year and between IoR2 and adherence (year 1, 2) was observed. The frequency of patients with HV > 1 SD was higher (p = 0.025) among patients with adherence >90%. The best model to predict the height gain(cm) reaching an adjusted R squared of 0.489 involved percentage of adherence, Tanner stage, pretreatment HV, dose of rhGH, and whether the treatment was initiated before or after puberty. CONCLUSIONS Adherence during the first 2 years of response was very high >90% and showed a negative association with age, pretreatment HV and treatment duration and a positive correlation with the level of parent education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonio de Arriba Muñoz
- Paediatric Endocrinology, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain.
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón, Zaragoza, Spain.
| | - Vanesa Cancela Muñiz
- Paediatric Endocrinology, Hospital Universitario de Donostia, San Sebastian, Spain
| | - José Juan Alcón Saez
- Paediatric Endocrinology. Paediatrics and Obstetrics-Gynaecology Department, Consorcio Hospital General Universitario de Valencia, Valencia, Spain
| | - Anunciación Beisti
- Paediatric Endocrinology, Fundación Hospital de Calahorra, Calahorra, La Rioja, Spain
| | | | - José Ignacio Labarta Aizpún
- Paediatric Endocrinology, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain
- Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria Aragón, Zaragoza, Spain
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Boman N, Fernandez-Luque L, Koledova E, Kause M, Lapatto R. Connected health for growth hormone treatment research and clinical practice: learnings from different sources of real-world evidence (RWE)-large electronically collected datasets, surveillance studies and individual patients' cases. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2021; 21:136. [PMID: 33902570 PMCID: PMC8074467 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-021-01491-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/14/2019] [Accepted: 04/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A range of factors can reduce the effectiveness of treatment prescribed for the long-term management of chronic health conditions, such as growth disorders. In particular, prescription medications may not achieve the positive outcomes expected because approximately half of patients adhere poorly to the prescribed treatment regimen. METHODS Adherence to treatment has previously been assessed using relatively unreliable subjective methods, such as patient self-reporting during clinical follow-up, or counting prescriptions filled or vials returned by patients. Here, we report on a new approach, the use of electronically recorded objective evidence of date, time, and dose taken which was obtained through a comprehensive eHealth ecosystem, based around the easypod™ electromechanical auto-injection device and web-based connect software. The benefits of this eHealth approach are also illustrated here by two case studies, selected from the Finnish cohort of the easypod™ Connect Observational Study (ECOS), a 5-year, open-label, observational study that enrolled children from 24 countries who were being treated with growth hormone (GH) via the auto-injection device. RESULTS Analyses of data from 9314 records from the easypod™ connect database showed that, at each time point studied, a significantly greater proportion of female patients had high adherence (≥ 85%) than male patients (2849/3867 [74%] vs 3879/5447 [71%]; P < 0.001). Furthermore, more of the younger patients (< 10 years for girls, < 12 years for boys) were in the high adherence range (P < 0.001). However, recursive partitioning of data from ECOS identified subgroups with lower adherence to GH treatment ‒ children who performed the majority of injections themselves at an early age (~ 8 years) and teenagers starting treatment aged ≥ 14 years. CONCLUSIONS The data and case studies presented herein illustrate the importance of adherence to GH therapy and how good growth outcomes can be achieved by following treatment as described. They also show how the device, software, and database ecosystem can complement normal clinical follow-up by providing HCPs with reliable information about patient adherence between visits and also providing researchers with real-world evidence of adherence and growth outcomes across a large population of patients with growth disorders treated with GH via the easypod™ device.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nea Boman
- Paediatric Endocrinology, Children's Hospital, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Stenbackinkatu 11, PO BOX 281, 00029, Helsinki, Finland.
| | | | - Ekaterina Koledova
- Global Medical Affairs Cardiometabolic and Endocrinology, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Marketta Kause
- Medical Department, Merck Oy Finland (an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), Espoo, Finland
| | - Risto Lapatto
- Paediatric Endocrinology, Children's Hospital, University of Helsinki and Helsinki University Central Hospital, Stenbackinkatu 11, PO BOX 281, 00029, Helsinki, Finland
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Kaplowitz P, Manjelievskaia J, Lopez-Gonzalez L, Morrow CD, Pitukcheewanont P, Smith A. Economic burden of growth hormone deficiency in a US pediatric population. J Manag Care Spec Pharm 2021; 27:1118-1128. [PMID: 33896224 PMCID: PMC10394182 DOI: 10.18553/jmcp.2021.21030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND: Pediatric growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is a rare disorder of short stature that is currently treated with daily injections of somatropin. In addition to short stature, GHD is associated with other comorbidities such as impaired musculoskeletal development, cardiovascular disease, and decreased quality of life. OBJECTIVE: To analyze somatropin utilization, adherence, and health care costs among children with GHD who had either Medicaid or commercial health insurance. METHODS: Children (aged < 18 years) with a GHD diagnosis between January 1, 2008, and December 31, 2017, were identified in the IBM MarketScan Commercial and Medicaid databases. Patients with at least 12- and 6-month continuous enrollment pre- and postdiagnosis were eligible. Children with GHD were direct matched (1:3) to controls without GHD (or other short stature-related disorders) on age, gender, plan type, region, and race (Medicaid only). Index date was the date of the first GHD diagnosis during the selection window for GHD patients and using random assignment for controls. Patients were followed until the end of continuous database enrollment or December 31, 2018. Baseline comorbidities and medications were measured during the 12 months pre-index, whereas somatropin treatment patterns along with all-cause and GHD-related health care costs were measured during the variable follow-up period. Multivariable modeling was used to compare costs between GHD patients and controls and between somatropin-treated and -untreated GHD patients while adjusting for baseline characteristics. RESULTS: There were 6,820 Medicaid and 14,070 commercial patients with GHD who met the study inclusion criteria. Mean (SD) age at index was 9.5 (4.5) years for Medicaid patients and 11.1 (3.7) years for commercial patients. The majority of patients were male (> 65%), and mean follow-up time for all cases and controls was 3-4 years. Overall, 63.2% of Medicaid and 68.4% of commercial GHD patients were treated with somatropin at some point during follow-up. Among Medicaid GHD patients, the treatment rate was highest among White males and lowest among Black females. Adherence was low as the proportion of days covered was ≥ 80% for only 18.4% of Medicaid patients and 32.3% of commercial patients and 49.1% of treated Medicaid and 24.3% of treated commercial patients discontinued before turning age 13. After adjusting for baseline characteristics, all-cause non-somatropin annualized costs were 5.67 times higher (Δ$19,309) for Medicaid GHD patients and 5.46 times higher (Δ$12,305) for commercial GHD patients than matched non-GHD controls. Adjusted all-cause non-somatropin annualized costs were 0.59 times lower (Δ$14,416) for treated Medicaid patients and 0.69 times lower (Δ$7,650) for treated commercial patients than for untreated patients. CONCLUSIONS: Pediatric GHD presents a significant health care burden, and many patients remain untreated or undertreated. Untreated GHD was associated with higher non-somatropin health care costs than treated GHD. Strategies to optimize treatment and improve adherence may reduce the health care burden faced by these patients. DISCLOSURES: This study was funded by Ascendis Pharma, Inc. Smith and Pitukcheewanont are employed by Ascendis Pharma, Inc. Manjelievskaia, Lopez-Gonzalez, and Morrow are employed by IBM Watson Health, which received funding from Ascendis Pharma, Inc., to conduct this study. Kaplowitz is a paid consultant of Ascendis Pharma, Inc.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul Kaplowitz
- Division of Endocrinology, Children's National Hospital, Washington, DC
| | | | | | | | - Pisit Pitukcheewanont
- Global Medical Ambassador and Medical Education, Ascendis Pharma, Inc., Palo Alto, CA
| | - Alden Smith
- Global Health Economics and Outcomes Research, Ascendis Pharma, Inc., Palo Alto, CA
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Urakami T. Effectiveness of a smartphone application on medication adherence in children with short stature receiving GH therapy: A multicenter prospective cohort study (GTL-App). Clin Pediatr Endocrinol 2021; 30:85-92. [PMID: 33867668 PMCID: PMC8022037 DOI: 10.1297/cpe.30.85] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2020] [Accepted: 01/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
This multicenter prospective cohort study followed up Japanese children who had just
started GH therapy using a drug delivery device (GROWJECTOR® L) linked to a newly
developed smartphone application and analyzed precise medication adherence data stored in
GROWJECTOR® L to evaluate the usefulness of the application in improving GH therapy
adherence over a 24-wk observation period. Moreover, a questionnaire survey on GH therapy
and the smartphone application was conducted, and factors affecting adherence to GH
therapy were assessed. This study enrolled 60 children with short stature who had GH
deficiency or Turner syndrome or were small for gestational age from 28 Japanese medical
institutions and analyzed 57 of them. The median and mean adherence rates after 24 wk of
observation were 96% and 93%, respectively. Although adherence rates were significantly
lower from wk 16 to wk 20 than from wk 1 to wk 4, cumulative adherence rates remained high
throughout the observation period. The questionnaire analysis revealed that most patients
actively used the application. Overall, our results suggest that active discussion
regarding the development of healthcare systems that contribute toward improving the
patient quality of life is warranted.
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Lee JE, Lee KH, Park MJ, Yang S, Kim EY, Rhie YJ, Jung MH, Yang A, Kim SH, Chung LY, Ko SY, Lee YJ, Nedjatian N, Chung WY. The role of growth hormone device optimization in patient-reported outcomes: real-world evidence from South Korea. Expert Rev Med Devices 2021; 18:91-106. [PMID: 33307881 DOI: 10.1080/17434440.2021.1864324] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Growth hormone (GH) treatment preference and adherence are affected by delivery device convenience, injection-site pain, confidence in correct dose administration, and device satisfaction. This survey investigated if switching device to NordiFlex® improved treatment experience in pediatric patients in South Korea. DESIGN AND METHODS Patients aged 4-≤18 years were surveyed. Participants were NordiFlex® users who previously used NordiLet®/other devices. Participants compared preference, self-reported adherence, satisfaction, perceived ease of use, and device subjective benefits (across four domains: ease of use, self-efficacy, minimal disruption of daily life, positive feelings about injections) of NordiFlex® vs. previous device. RESULTS Ninety-four patients were enrolled, of which 91.5% previously used NordiLet®. Significantly more patients preferred, and were more satisfied with NordiFlex® vs. previous device; mean score: 0.65 (95% confidence interval [CI]:0.41;0.88) and 0.61 (95% CI:0.36;0.85), respectively. Participants reported greater perceived ease of use (0.49 [95% CI:0.26;0.72]) and fewer missed injections (0.20 [95% CI:0.06;0.34], with NordiFlex® vs. previous device. Bivariate analysis showed significant associations between preference for NordiFlex® and higher scores on self-efficacy, ease of use, minimal disruption of daily life, and positive feelings about injection (all p < 0.001). CONCLUSION These results suggest that improvements in device features could be associated with improved treatment experience.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ji-Eun Lee
- Inha University Hospital, Incheon, Korea
| | | | - Mi Jung Park
- Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Seung Yang
- Hanyang University Guri Hospital, Guri, Korea
| | | | | | - Min-Ho Jung
- The Catholic University of Korea Yeouido St Mary's Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Aram Yang
- Kangbuk Samsung Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | - Shin-Hye Kim
- Inje University Sanggye Paik Hospital, Seoul, Korea
| | | | | | - Young Ju Lee
- Medical Affairs, Novo Nordisk Pharma Korea Ltd, Seoul, Korea
| | - Navid Nedjatian
- Global Medical Affairs, Novo Nordisk Health Care AG, Zurich, Switzerland
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Abstract
Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) is a rare but treatable cause of short stature. The diagnosis requires a careful evaluation of clinical history, physical examination and appropriate interpretation of longitudinal growth, with specific features for each period of life. Other clinical findings, in addition to growth failure, may be present and can be related to the etiology and to associated hormone deficiencies. Despite more than 50 years since the first reports of provocative tests of growth hormone (GH) secretion for the diagnosis of GHD, the interpretation of the results remains a matter of debate. When GHD is confirmed, GH treatment is recommended. Treatment is effective and safe, but requires daily injections during many years, which can affect adherence. At the end of longitudinal growth, during the transition phase, it might be necessary to re-evaluate GH secretion. This review summarizes and updates the recent information related to GHD in children, as well the recommendations for treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Margaret C S Boguszewski
- Department of Pediatrics, Endocrine Division (SEMPR), University Hospital, Federal University of Parana, Curitiba, Brazil.
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Graham S, Neo S, Auyeung V, Weinman J. What Potentially Modifiable Factors are Associated With Treatment Nonadherence in Pediatric Growth Hormone Deficiency? A Quantitative Study. Endocr Pract 2021; 27:146-151. [PMID: 33563559 DOI: 10.4158/ep-2020-0543] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2020] [Revised: 08/29/2020] [Accepted: 09/10/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE A recent systematic review reported that up to 71% of patients with growth hormone deficiency and their families are nonadherent to treatment as prescribed. Nonadherence to growth hormone treatment presents a substantial and costly problem for the patient, health care provider, and health care system. The current study uniquely investigated the potentially modifiable factors associated with treatment nonadherence in this endocrine disorder. METHODS The cross-sectional study was conducted among 82 parent/caregivers of children with growth hormone deficiency who were receiving growth hormone treatment. Self-report questionnaires investigated parent/caregiver perceptions and experiences of their child's condition and prescribed treatment, in addition to their perceived relationship with their health care professional. The 8-item Morisky medication adherence scale was used for the assessment of treatment adherence. RESULTS Sixty-two percent of parents/caregivers were found to be nonadherent to growth hormone treatment as prescribed. Illness perceptions (consequences, identity, and coherence) and treatment concerns were found to be significantly associated with treatment adherence, as was the quality of the health care professional-parent/caregiver relationship. CONCLUSION The study confirmed the extent of the adherence problem evident among the pediatric growth hormone deficiency population. In addition, it presented an insight into the explanatory factors that underpin nonadherence to growth hormone treatment. Our findings can be used to inform the development of adherence-focused interventions, with the purpose of supporting patients and their families and improving the use of prescribed growth hormone treatment within endocrine clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selina Graham
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom.
| | - Samantha Neo
- Health Psychology Section, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Vivian Auyeung
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - John Weinman
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London, United Kingdom
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Siegel S, Unger N, Streetz-van der Werf C, Karges W, Schilbach K, Schröder B, Szybowicz J, Sauerwald J, Zopf K, Grzywotz A, Bidlingmaier M, Kirstein C, Sommer H, Strasburger CJ, Kreitschmann-Andermahr I. Adults' Adherence to Growth Hormone Replacement in Relation to Medication-Related Beliefs, Coping and Quality of Life - An Exploratory Analysis. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2021; 12:680964. [PMID: 34108940 PMCID: PMC8181747 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2021.680964] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/23/2021] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Little is known about psychological reasons associated with adherence to growth hormone (GH) replacement therapy (GHRx) in adults. As in other chronic diseases, medication-related beliefs, coping strategies and disease impact on quality of life (QoL) might play an important role. We thus explored these psychological factors in relation to adherence in patients with GH deficiency (GHD) in order to find leverage points for the improvement of adherence. PATIENTS AND METHODS Cross-sectional analysis including 107 adult GHD patients on GHRx who completed self-assessment inventories on health-related QoL (Short-Form SF-36), coping style (Freiburg questionnaire on coping with illness, FKV-LIS) and medication beliefs (Beliefs about Medicine questionnaire, BMQ). Results were correlated to general and GH-specific adherence to medication. RESULTS In the BMQ, 92.5% of the patients (n=99) reported a strong belief in the need for their medication, which correlated significantly with general adherence (rs = 0.325). Active coping was significantly related to general (rs = 0.307) and GH-specific adherence (rs = 0.226). Better mental QoL (rs = 0.210) but worse physical QoL (rs = -0.198; all p < 0.05) were related to higher GH-specific adherence. Older age was associated with a higher degree of active coping, a higher belief in the necessity of medication and worse physical QoL. CONCLUSION We provide preliminary data that most GHD patients on GHRx are strongly convinced of their need for medication and that adherence to GHRx is influenced by coping strategies and QoL. Patients with impaired psychological QoL are less able to translate their convictions into good adherence, a phenomenon to be addressed in future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sonja Siegel
- Department of Neurosurgery and Spine Surgery, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Nicole Unger
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Christine Streetz-van der Werf
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Wolfram Karges
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetes, Rheinisch-Westfälische Technische Hochschule (RWTH) Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany
| | - Katharina Schilbach
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Klinikum, Munich, Germany
| | - Bernadette Schröder
- Department of Neurosurgery and Spine Surgery, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Janine Szybowicz
- Department of Neurosurgery and Spine Surgery, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Janina Sauerwald
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutritional Medicine, Charité Universitaetsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Kathrin Zopf
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutritional Medicine, Charité Universitaetsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Agnieszka Grzywotz
- Department of Neurosurgery and Spine Surgery, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | - Martin Bidlingmaier
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität (LMU) Klinikum, Munich, Germany
| | - Cedric Kirstein
- Department of Neurosurgery and Spine Surgery, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Christian J. Strasburger
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutritional Medicine, Charité Universitaetsmedizin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Ilonka Kreitschmann-Andermahr
- Department of Neurosurgery and Spine Surgery, University of Duisburg-Essen, Essen, Germany
- *Correspondence: Ilonka Kreitschmann-Andermahr,
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Kreitschmann-Andermahr I, Siegel S, Unger N, Streetz-van der Werf C, Karges W, Schilbach K, Schröder B, Szybowicz J, Sauerwald J, Zopf K, Grzywotz A, Bidlingmaier M, Sommer H, Strasburger CJ. Motivation for and adherence to growth hormone replacement therapy in adults with hypopituitarism: the patients' perspective. Pituitary 2020; 23:479-487. [PMID: 32441023 PMCID: PMC7426293 DOI: 10.1007/s11102-020-01046-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION While reasons for non-adherence in children requiring growth hormone (GH) replacement (GH-Rx) are well researched, few studies have investigated adherence in adult GH deficient patients. Against the background of the adverse medical sequelae of untreated severe GH deficiency (GHD) in adults, we explored adherence to GH-Rx and associated factors in this patient group. METHOD Cross-sectional analysis including 107 adult patients with severe GHD on GH-Rx, 15 untreated GDH patients and 19 who had discontinued therapy. Patients completed self-developed ad hoc surveys on adherence to medication and GH-Rx, specific beliefs about GH-Rx, side effects and burden of injection, reasons for never receiving or dropping out of therapy, respectively. RESULTS Adherence to GH-Rx was high (mean 15.8/18 points on the self-developed adherence score) and significantly correlated with general medication adherence. Higher age was significantly associated with better adherence to GH-Rx, while injection side effects, duration of treatment or device used were not. The most frequent reasons for not being on GH-Rx apart from medical reasons included fear of side effects, lack of belief in treatment effects and dislike of injections. In patients not on GH-Rx, the proportion of patients in employment was significantly smaller than in the treatment group, despite similar age and comorbidities. CONCLUSIONS Adherence to GH-Rx was high for those patients on therapy. Instead of focusing on improving adherence in those adults already on GH-Rx, efforts should be undertaken to ally fear of side effects and provide education on positive treatment effects for those eligible but not receiving therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ilonka Kreitschmann-Andermahr
- Department of Neurosurgery and Spine Surgery, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147, Essen, Germany.
| | - Sonja Siegel
- Department of Neurosurgery and Spine Surgery, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Nicole Unger
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetology and Metabolism, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstr. 55, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Wolfram Karges
- Division of Endocrinology and Diabetology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Pauwelsstrasse 30, 52074, Aachen, Germany
| | - Katharina Schilbach
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Bernadette Schröder
- Department of Neurosurgery and Spine Surgery, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Janine Szybowicz
- Department of Neurosurgery and Spine Surgery, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | | | - Kathrin Zopf
- Hexal AG, Industriestrasse 25, 83607, Holzkirchen, Germany
| | - Agnieszka Grzywotz
- Department of Neurosurgery and Spine Surgery, University of Duisburg-Essen, Hufelandstrasse 55, 45147, Essen, Germany
| | - Martin Bidlingmaier
- Medizinische Klinik und Poliklinik IV, Klinikum der Universität München, Munich, Germany
| | - Heide Sommer
- Hexal AG, Industriestrasse 25, 83607, Holzkirchen, Germany
| | - Christian J Strasburger
- Department of Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutritional Medicine, Campus Charité Mitte, Charité Universitaetsmedizin, Charitéplatz 1, 10117, Berlin, Germany
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Child J, Davies C, Frost K, McDermid E, Pidcock R, Weinman J, Savage MO. Managing Paediatric Growth Disorders: Integrating Technology Into a Personalised Approach. J Clin Res Pediatr Endocrinol 2020; 12:225-232. [PMID: 31744271 PMCID: PMC7499133 DOI: 10.4274/jcrpe.galenos.2019.2019.0153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Long-term growth management can be challenging for patients, families and healthcare professionals (HCP). Personalised optimal responses to growth hormone (GH) therapy depend on the creation of a good working relationship between the patient and family and the HCPs responsible for care. Current unmet needs in growth management will be discussed, focusing on the likelihood of a poor growth response and its identification and management with emphasis on the importance of good adherence to GH therapy. Digital tools are now available to record injections and communicate accurate adherence data to the HCP and patient. Psychological barriers to good adherence will be covered, with techniques identified to change behaviour and improve outcome. Motivational interviewing is a valuable skill in this respect and should be taught to both medical and nursing HCPs to enhance the quality of the relationship with the patient and family. Key messages are, firstly, the importance of personalised care with the HCP using acquired psychological skills to prevent and manage poor adherence. Secondly, a human-eHealth partnership is necessary to maximise the benefit of new digital tools to aid in successful growth management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jenny Child
- The Child Growth Foundation, Sutton Coldfield, UK
| | - Christine Davies
- University Hospital of Wales, Noah’s Ark Children’s Hospital for Wales, Children’s Hospital, Cardiff, UK
| | - Katie Frost
- The Straw Barn, Upton End Farm Business Park, Bedfordshire, UK
| | | | | | - John Weinman
- King’s College London, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, London, UK
| | - Martin O. Savage
- Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, William Harvey Research Institute, Centre of Endocrinology, London, UK,* Address for Correspondence: Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, William Harvey Research Institute, Centre of Endocrinology, London, UK Phone: +44 (0)7803084491 E-mail:
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40
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Malik S, Moloney C, Koledova E, Reston J, Weinman J. Designing a Personalized Digital Patient Support Program for Patients Treated With Growth Hormone: Key Design Considerations. J Med Internet Res 2020; 22:e18157. [PMID: 32723712 PMCID: PMC7424476 DOI: 10.2196/18157] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Accepted: 05/14/2020] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Recombinant human growth hormone treatment can optimize growth potential; however, optimal outcomes are not always achieved for several reasons, including poor adherence. The overall objective of this project was to design a patient support program to maximize the chances of treatment success for people being treated with somatropin injection. An approach known as the behavior change wheel was used to enhance the development of the patient support program. The behavior change wheel provided a comprehensive framework to support the design of interventions. OBJECTIVE The aim of this paper was to describe how the steps of the behavior change wheel were applied to the development of a patient support program for individuals with growth hormone deficiency undergoing treatment with somatropin. METHODS We followed a series of steps that align to tenets of the behavior change wheel, namely, a narrative literature review to identify which behaviors needed to change and the potential drivers of and barriers to the behaviors, the selection of an intervention strategy and discrete behavior change techniques, and, finally, intervention specification. RESULTS A recent systematic review identified a range of potentially modifiable factors found to have an influence on patient adherence to growth hormone treatment. Insights from the systematic review were used to guide the development of a patient support program. The final design of the patient support program consisted of four elements: (1) a personalization questionnaire to tailor support for each individual, (2) tailored reminder and support SMS text messages, (3) nurse-led phone calls, and (4) Easypod connect, an automated electronic autoinjector drug-delivery device with a transmitter and connection platform for Saizen (somatropin) that allows automatic recording, storage, and transmission of drug-usage data, thus providing insight into suboptimal adherence. CONCLUSIONS The patient support program that was designed is currently being piloted with patients to assess engagement with the program and determine its impact on patient outcomes. Results from the pilot will be used to further refine the program to ensure it meets user needs.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Ekaterina Koledova
- Endocrinology, Global Medical, Safety and CMO, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | | | - John Weinman
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, Kings College London, London, United Kingdom
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Miller BS, Velazquez E, Yuen KCJ. Long-Acting Growth Hormone Preparations - Current Status and Future Considerations. J Clin Endocrinol Metab 2020; 105:5611083. [PMID: 31676901 PMCID: PMC7755139 DOI: 10.1210/clinem/dgz149] [Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
CONTEXT Long-acting GH (LAGH) preparations are currently being developed in an attempt to improve adherence. The profile of GH action following administration of LAGH raises practical questions about clinical monitoring and long-term safety and efficacy of these new therapeutic agents. METHODS Recent literature and meeting proceedings regarding LAGH preparations are reviewed. RESULTS Multiple LAGH preparations are currently at various stages of development, allowing for decreased GH injection frequency from daily to weekly, biweekly, or monthly. Following administration of LAGH, the serum peak and trough GH and IGF-I levels vary depending upon the mechanism used to prolong GH action. Randomized, controlled clinical trials of some LAGH preparations have reported non-inferiority compared with daily recombinant human GH (rhGH) for improved growth velocity and body composition in children and adults with GH deficiency (GHD), respectively. No significant LAGH-related adverse events have been reported during short-term therapy. CONCLUSION Multiple LAGH preparations are proceeding through clinical development with some showing promising evidence of short-term clinical efficacy and safety in children and adults with GHD. The relationship of transient elevations of GH and IGF-I following administration of LAGH to efficacy and safety remain to be elucidated. For LAGH to replace daily rhGH in the treatment of individuals with GHD, a number of practical questions need to be addressed including methods of dose adjustment, timing of monitoring of IGF-I, safety, efficacy, and cost-effectiveness. Long-term surveillance of efficacy and safety of LAGH preparations will be needed to answer these clinically relevant questions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bradley S Miller
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
- Correspondence and Reprint Requests: Bradley S. Miller, MD, PhD, 8952D, MB671 East Bldg, Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, 2450 Riverside Avenue, Minneapolis, MN 55454. E-mail:
| | - Eric Velazquez
- Division of Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, Minnesota
| | - Kevin C J Yuen
- Departments of Neuroendocrinology and Neurosurgery, Barrow Pituitary Center, Barrow Neurological Institute, University of Arizona College of Medicine, Phoenix, Arizona
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Final adult height of children with idiopathic short stature: a multicenter study on GH therapy alone started during peri-puberty. BMC Pediatr 2020; 20:138. [PMID: 32222149 PMCID: PMC7102429 DOI: 10.1186/s12887-020-02034-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2019] [Accepted: 03/13/2020] [Indexed: 01/20/2023] Open
Abstract
Background To evaluate the efficacy of GH in improving FAH in ISS children in a multicenter study. Methods A real-world observation was carried out. Children with ISS in seven hospitals in China were enrolled. The height gains standard deviation score and the height gain over the target height were evaluated. Results There were 344 ISS patients (217 boys and 127 girls). The baseline average age of boys and girls was 12.7 and 11.7 years, with bone age of 11.7 and 10.1 years, respectively. The baseline height SDS of boys and girls was − 3.07 and − 2.74, and the FAH SDS was − 1.91 and − 1.38, respectively. Compared with the baseline height SDS, the FAH SDS was significantly increased in both boys and girls (both P = 0.0000). The FAH SDS was the highest (gain by 1.54 SD) in the ≥2y treatment course group. Two hundred eighteen patients (218/344, 63.4%) had a FAH SDS > − 2 SD. Among these patients, girls in the 1-2y treatment course group and ≥ 2y group had a FAH SDS higher than TH SDS. Even in the control group, a spontaneous catch-up growth of 1.16 SD was observed. A multivariate linear regression model was used to analyze the results, with FAH SDS as the dependent variable. It was found that the treatment course and baseline height SDS in the boys’ model were statistically significant (P < 0.05), whereas the baseline height SDS and baseline bone age significantly affected the girls’ FAH SDS (P < 0.05). Conclusions Both girls and boys of ISS improved FAH by GH therapy even if treatments begin over 10 years old and majority of them reached TH. Some peri-puberty ISS will have a spontaneous height gain. We recommend the course of GH treatment more than 2 years for girls, and longer courses for boys.
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Fernandez-Luque L, Labarta JI, Palmer E, Koledova E. Content Analysis of Apps for Growth Monitoring and Growth Hormone Treatment: Systematic Search in the Android App Store. JMIR Mhealth Uhealth 2020; 8:e16208. [PMID: 32130162 PMCID: PMC7055837 DOI: 10.2196/16208] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2019] [Revised: 12/11/2019] [Accepted: 12/16/2019] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The use of mobile apps for health is growing. This rapid growth in the number of health apps can make it hard to assess their quality and features. The increased demand for and availability of mobile health apps highlights the importance of regular publication of reviews to identify potential areas of unmet needs and concern. The focus of this review is mobile apps for monitoring growth for health care professionals, caregivers, and patients. Monitoring growth as a part of healthy physical development is important across different periods of childhood and adolescence. Objective The goal of this content analysis is to map and understand the types of apps that currently exist that are related to growth monitoring and growth hormone treatment. Methods A semiautomated search was undertaken using the app search engine 42Matters, complemented by a manual search for growth apps using the web search tool of Google Play (Android App Store). Apps were rated on their relevance to growth monitoring and categorized by independent raters. Results In total, 76 apps were rated relevant to growth monitoring or growth hormone treatment. The level of agreement was measured for the semiautomated search and was very high (Κ=0.97). The target audience for 87% of the apps (66/76) was patients and relatives, followed by health care professionals (11%; 8/76) and both (3%; 2/76). Apps in the category “growth tracking tools for children and babies” were retrieved most often (46%; 35/76) followed by “general baby care apps” (32%; 24/76), “nonpharmacological solutions for growth” (12%; 9/76) and “growth hormone–related” (11%; 8/76). Overall, 19/76 apps (25%) tracked a precise location. Conclusions This study mapped the type of apps currently available for growth monitoring or growth hormone treatment that can be used as a foundation for more detailed evaluations of app quality. The popularity of care apps for children and growth monitoring apps should provide a great channel for potential intervention in childhood health in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - José I Labarta
- Department of Pediatrics, Hospital Universitario Miguel Servet, Zaragoza, Spain
| | - Ella Palmer
- inScience Communications, Springer Healthcare Ltd, London, United Kingdom
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de Zwaan M, Fischer-Jacobs J, Wabitsch M, Reinehr T, Meckes-Ferber S, Crosby RD. Development and Psychometric Evaluation of an Instrument Assessing Barriers to Growth Hormone Treatment (BAR-GHT). Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2020; 11:84. [PMID: 32158432 PMCID: PMC7051941 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2020.00084] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2019] [Accepted: 02/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose: This paper presents development and validation of a new patient reported outcome measure (PRO), the Barriers to Growth Hormone Therapy (BAR-GHT) in a patient (child/adolescent) and a parent version. The BAR-GHT was developed to measure problems and potential barriers to GHT. Methods: The development and validation of the BAR-GHT was conducted according to the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Guidance on the development of PROs. Concept elicitation included a literature review and open-ended interviews with young patients, parents, and clinical experts. Qualitative data were analyzed based on grounded theory principles and draft items were rated in terms of their importance and clarity. The instruments underwent psychometric validation in a German clinic-based patient population of children and adolescents who inject themselves and in a parent sample who inject their child. The statistical analysis plan included exploratory factor analysis, reliability, and validity. Results: 29 patients, 22 parents, and 4 clinical experts participated in the concept elicitation, 156 children and adolescents aged 8-18 years and 146 parents completed the validation study. Exploratory factor analysis resulted in six domains: Fear, Public Embarrassment, Annoyance, Daily Routine, Supplies, and Travel. Internal consistencies and test-retest reliabilities of the total score of both the patient version and the parent version were >0.8. Convergent and discriminant validity was demonstrated. Conclusions: The final 19-item BAR-GHT for patients aged 8-18 years and the 16-item version for parents can be considered reliable and valid PROs of barriers to GHT. Clinical Trial Registration: www.ClinicalTrials.gov, identifier: NCT03672617. Universal Trial Number (UTN) of the International Clinical Trials Registry Platform (ICTRP, www.who.int): U1111-1210-1036.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina de Zwaan
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hanover, Germany
- *Correspondence: Martina de Zwaan
| | - Josefine Fischer-Jacobs
- Department of Psychosomatic Medicine and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hanover, Germany
| | - Martin Wabitsch
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology and Diabetes, Department of Paediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, University Medical Center, Ulm, Germany
| | - Thomas Reinehr
- Vestische Kinder- und Jugendklinik Datteln, University Witten/Herdecke, Datteln, Germany
| | | | - Ross D. Crosby
- Center for Biobehavioral Research, Sanford Health, Fargo, ND, United States
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Graham S, Auyeung V, Weinman J. Exploring Potentially Modifiable Factors That Influence Treatment Non-Adherence Amongst Pediatric Growth Hormone Deficiency: A Qualitative Study. Patient Prefer Adherence 2020; 14:1889-1899. [PMID: 33116433 PMCID: PMC7569171 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s268972] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 08/11/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION A recent systematic review found that up to 71% of children with growth hormone deficiency and their families are non-adherent to treatment as prescribed. A key way to better understanding the complex issue of pediatric non-adherence is to explore the perceptions and experiences of the parent/caregiver. Our study is the first to look specifically at the potentially modifiable factors that influence non-adherence to rhGH treatment amongst parents/caregivers of children with this endocrine disorder. METHODS Fourteen semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted to explore parents/caregivers' perceptions and experiences of their child's condition and prescribed treatment, in addition to their perceived relationship with their healthcare professional. The findings were thematically analyzed and narratively synthesized, in line with the qualitative approach of Braun and Clarke (2006). RESULTS Potentially modifiable factors that influence non-adherence to growth hormone treatment were grouped under four themes: 1. Device Burdens, 2. Treatment Considerations, 3. Logistical Interferences and 4. Interpersonal Influences. CONCLUSION Our exploratory study presents the wide range of potentially modifiable factors that influence the way in which growth hormone treatment is used. These findings can, in turn, be used to inform and promote the development of targeted, adherence-focused interventions, to support growth hormone deficient children and their families and optimize the use of prescribed growth hormone treatment within endocrine clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Selina Graham
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
- Correspondence: Selina Graham School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King’s College London, Franklin-Wilkins Building, London, UK Email
| | - Vivian Auyeung
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
| | - John Weinman
- School of Cancer and Pharmaceutical Sciences, King’s College London, London, UK
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Yuen KCJ, Llahana S, Miller BS. Adult growth hormone deficiency: clinical advances and approaches to improve adherence. Expert Rev Endocrinol Metab 2019; 14:419-436. [PMID: 31721610 DOI: 10.1080/17446651.2019.1689119] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2019] [Accepted: 11/01/2019] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: There have been significant clinical advances in the understanding of the diagnosis and benefits of long-term recombinant human growth hormone (rhGH) replacement in adults with GH deficiency (GHD) since its approval in 1996 by the United States Food and Drug Administration.Areas covered: We searched PubMed, Medline, CINAHL, EMBASE and PsychInfo databases between January 2000 and June 2019 for published studies evaluating adults with GHD. We reviewed the data of the oral macimorelin test compared to the GHRH plus arginine and the insulin tolerance tests that led to its approval by the United States FDA and European Medicines Agency for adult diagnostic testing. We summarize the clinical advances of long-term benefits of rhGH therapy and the potential effects of GH receptor polymorphisms on individual treatment responsiveness. We identify that non-adherence and discontinuation rates are high and recommend strategies to support patients to improve adherence. We also provide an overview of several long-acting GH (LAGH) preparations currently under development and their potential role in improving treatment adherence.Expert opinion: This article summarizes recent clinical advances in rhGH replacement therapy, the biological and molecular aspects that may influence rhGH action, and offers practical strategies to enhance adherence in adults with GHD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kevin C J Yuen
- Barrow Pituitary Center, Barrow Neurological Institute, University of Arizona College of Medicine and Creighton School of Medicine, Phoenix, AZ, USA
| | - Sofia Llahana
- Division of Nursing, School of Health Sciences, City University of London, London, UK
| | - Bradley S Miller
- Division of Pediatric Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, University of Minnesota, Minneapolis, MN, USA
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