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Cervera-Torres S, Núñez-Benjumea FJ, de Arriba Muñoz A, Chicchi Giglioli IA, Fernández-Luque L. Digital health for emotional and self-management support of caregivers of children receiving growth hormone treatment: a feasibility study protocol. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2022; 22:215. [PMID: 35964116 PMCID: PMC9375279 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-022-01935-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 07/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Caregivers of children undergoing growth hormone treatment often face stress and stigma. In this regard, family-centered approaches are increasingly considered, wherein caregivers’ mental wellbeing is taken into account to optimize children’s health-related outcomes and behaviors (e.g., treatment adherence). Here, mindfulness and parenting-based programs have been developed to support the mental wellbeing of caregivers and, in turn, promote richer interactions with the children. Nevertheless, this type of program can face drawbacks, such as the scheduling and availability of family members. Recent digital health (DH) solutions (e.g., mobile apps) are showing promising advantages as self-management support tools for improving wellbeing and behaviors related to the treatments. Although, further evidence is necessary in the field of Growth Hormone Treatment (GHt). Accordingly, this study aims to examine the usability of a mobile DH solution and the feasibility of a DH intervention designed to promote emotional and mental wellbeing of caregivers of children undergoing GHt. Methods This is a prospective mixed-methods (qualitative-quantitative) exploratory study composed of two sub-studies, including caregivers of children undergoing GHt. Sub-study one (SS1; n = 10) focuses on the usability of the DH solution (detecting potential barriers and facilitators) and an ad hoc semi-structured interview will be administered to the caregivers after using the DH solution for one month. Sub-study two (SS2; n = 55) aims to evaluate the feasibility of the DH intervention on caregivers’ perceived distress, positive affectivity, mental wellbeing, self-efficacy, together with the children’s quality of life and treatment adherence. All these parameters will be assessed via quantitative methods before and after 3-months of the DH intervention. Usability and engagement will also be assessed during and at the end of the study. Results It is expected that significant amounts of data will be captured with regards of the feasibility of the DH solution. Discussion The manuscript provides a complete protocol for a study that will include qualitative and quantitative information about, on one hand, the user-friendliness of the DH solution, and on the other, the effects on caregivers’ emotional, as well as, behavioral parameters in terms of the usability and engagement to the DH solution. The findings will contribute to the evidence planning process for the future adoption of digital health solutions for caregiver support and better health-related outcomes. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov, ID: NCT04812665. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12911-022-01935-1.
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The Changing Face of Paediatric Human Growth Hormone Therapy. ENDOCRINES 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/endocrines3030033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Human growth hormone (hGH) has been used therapeutically to promote growth in children for over 60 years. Pituitary-extracted hGH has demonstrated positive growth promotion since the early 1960s. In 1985, prion-induced contamination of hGH triggered a global epidemic of Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease that was responsible for its discontinuation. Recombinant hGH immediately replaced pituitary hGH and, being available in large amounts, was used and licenced for therapy in GH-deficient children, followed by approval for non-GH deficient disorders such as Turner syndrome, short stature related to birth size small for gestational age, idiopathic short stature, SHOX deficiency, Prader–Willi syndrome and Noonan syndrome. RhGH therapy was refined by the use of growth prediction models; however, unmet needs, such as the variability in response and non-adherence resulted in the development of long-acting rhGH (LArhGH) molecules, which are currently in clinical trials and have shown non-inferiority in comparison with daily rhGH. It is likely that LArhGH will enter clinical practice in 2022 and 2023 and will need to demonstrate safety in terms of immunogenicity, IGF-1 generation, metabolic status and tolerability of potential injection pain and local reactions.
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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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Deeb A, Al Yaarubi S, Abbas BB, Al Jubeh J, Chaturvedi D, Al Hassani N, Mutair A, Al Masri N, Al Sanad Y, Al Shidhani A, Mahmoud NS, Alherbish A, Savage MO. Patients' Perception of the Use of the EasyPod™ Growth Hormone Injector Device and Impact on Injection Adherence: A Multi-Center Regional Study. Front Pediatr 2022; 10:839278. [PMID: 35295698 PMCID: PMC8918687 DOI: 10.3389/fped.2022.839278] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2021] [Accepted: 01/31/2022] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE This study aimed to assess patient perceptions of the use of the EasyPod™ growth hormone delivery device and its association with compliance. METHODS This cross-sectional, multicenter study was conducted in six centers from three countries (United Arab Emirates, Oman, and Saudi Arabia,) between March 2020 and June 2020. Children and adolescents aged 3-18 years, diagnosed with growth disorders and receiving rhGH through the EasyPod™ device were enrolled. Patients and caregivers were given a pre-set questionnaire that evaluated patient satisfaction, preference for technical and personalized features, and device drawbacks. The results were analyzed using independent measures of analysis of variance to evaluate the association of higher satisfaction with device features and better compliance. RESULTS A total of 186 patients were enrolled in the study. Of these, 45.7% had GH deficiency. The mean age (±SD) of patients was 11.8 (±2.76) years; 117 (62.90%) were males. Average compliance was 87%. One hundred patients (53.76%) had injection compliance of ≥90%. Amongst these patients, 74%, 68%, and 77% top-scored (5/5) the technical features of hidden needle, skin sensor, and pre-set dosing, respectively, compared to top scores by 39%, 34%, and 51% patients in the <90% compliance group (p-value <0.05). Similarly, a statistically significant difference was observed between the groups (p-value <0.05) in the perception of the usefulness of the tracking features such as display of history of injected doses (78% vs. 47.7%), a reminder for medicine remaining (46% vs. 23.3%) and battery power indicator (48% vs. 20.9%). Personal screen messages were associated with higher compliance while the requirement to keep the device in the fridge was reported as the most inconvenient feature by 56% of patients in the higher compliance group as against 39.5% in the lower compliance group (p-value <0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the intensity of pain reported in the two compliance groups. CONCLUSION Our study showed that there is a statistically significant association between better perception of device features and higher compliance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Deeb
- Sheikh Shahbout Medical City & Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Saif Al Yaarubi
- College of Medicine, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | - Bassam Bin Abbas
- King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Jamal Al Jubeh
- Department of Pediatrics, Sheikh Khalifa Medical City, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Deepti Chaturvedi
- Department of Pediatrics, Burjeel Hospital, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Noura Al Hassani
- Division of Endocrine and Diabetes, Department of Pediatrics, Tawam Hospital and Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, UAE University, Al Ain, United Arab Emirates
| | - Angham Mutair
- Pediatric Endocrine Division, Department of Pediatrics, King Abdulaziz Medical City, King Abdullah Specialist Children Hospital, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Neamat Al Masri
- Sheikh Shahbout Medical City & Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Yazan Al Sanad
- Sheikh Shahbout Medical City & Khalifa University, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Azza Al Shidhani
- College of Medicine, Sultan Qaboos University Hospital, Muscat, Oman
| | | | | | - Martin O Savage
- Centre for Endocrinology, Barts and the London School of Medicine & Dentistry, William Harvey Research Institute, Queen Mary University of London, London, United Kingdom
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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, Yang C, Chao MC, Chiang CL. Monitoring Adherence Rate to Growth Hormone Therapy and Growth Outcomes in Taiwanese Children Using Easypod Connect: Observational Study. JMIR Pediatr Parent 2021; 4:e14774. [PMID: 33448936 PMCID: PMC7846437 DOI: 10.2196/14774] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2019] [Revised: 09/23/2020] [Accepted: 11/22/2020] [Indexed: 12/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Adherence to growth hormone therapy is difficult to detect reliably. Devices such as easypod have been developed for electronic recording of injections. The easypod connect observational study (ECOS) was an open-label, observational, multinational, phase IV study conducted in 24 countries around the world. The final results from ECOS in the Taiwanese cohort are reported in this paper. OBJECTIVE This study aimed to evaluate the adherence and long-term outcomes of growth hormone therapy in pediatric subjects using the easypod electromechanical device. METHODS Subjects (aged 2-18 years or >18 years without fusion of growth plates) who received Saizen (recombinant human growth hormone, somatropin) via the easypod device were enrolled in this study. The primary objective was to assess the level of adherence in subjects receiving Saizen via easypod. RESULTS In Taiwan, a total of 35 and 13 children fulfilled the criteria of full analysis set and complete analysis set, respectively. The mean (SD) age of the complete analysis set was 12.08 (2.72) years. All subjects were growth hormone-naïve, with 38% (5/13) females. The mean adherence rates of 13 subjects were 87.6% at 3 months and 84.3% at 6 months, that of 8 subjects was 81.0% at 9 months, and that of 4 subjects was 91.6% at 1 year. After 1 year of treatment, subjects had a median (Q1:Q3) change in height SD score of 0.30 (0.06:0.48), median height velocity of 6.50 (4.33:8.24) cm/year, and median change in height velocity SD score of 1.81 (-0.04:3.52). CONCLUSIONS With the easypod device, patients with inadequate adherence and poor response to treatment can be identified. Adherence to growth hormone therapy administered via easypod was generally high in the first year of treatment but the adherence gradually decreased over time. Overall, growth outcomes after 1 year indicated a positive growth response to growth hormone treatment. Future efforts should be focused on personalized management of adherence by using the easypod system.
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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
| | - Chen Yang
- Division of Genetics, Metabolism and Endocrinology, Department of Pediatrics, Taipei Medical University Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan
| | - Mei-Chyn Chao
- Department of Pediatric Genetics, Changhua Christian Children's Hospital, Changhua, Taiwan.,Department of Pediatric Genetics, Endocrinology and Metabolism, Kaohsiung Medical University Hospital, Kaohsiung, Taiwan
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Blanco-López A, Antillón-Ferreira C, Saavedra-Castillo E, Barrientos-Pérez M, Rivero-Escalante H, Flores-Caloca O, Calzada-León R, Rosas-Guerra CC, Koledova E, Chiquete E, Ayala-Estrada A. Adherence to treatment in children with growth hormone deficiency, small for gestational age and Turner syndrome in Mexico: results of the Easypod™ connect observational study (ECOS). J Endocrinol Invest 2020; 43:1447-1452. [PMID: 32239476 PMCID: PMC7481146 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-020-01218-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2019] [Accepted: 03/05/2020] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Assessing adherence to growth hormone (GH) is challenging. The Easypod™ connect device delivers pre-set doses of recombinant human GH (r-hGH) and stores a digital record of adherence that can be shared with healthcare provider. We assessed adherence to r-hGH delivered with Easypod™ according to the approved pediatric indications for r-hGH: growth hormone deficiency (GHD), born small for gestational age (SGA) who failed to show catch-up growth and Turner syndrome (TS). METHODS ECOS (NCT01555528) was a multicenter (24 countries), 5-year, longitudinal, observational study, which aimed to evaluate country-specific adherence to r-hGH therapy prescribed via the Easypod™ electronic injection device. The primary endpoint was yearly adherence. Secondary endpoints were height velocity, height velocity standard deviation scores (SDS), height, height SDS and IGF-1 concentrations. Clinical and auxological data were obtained from medical records and adherence from Easypod™ logs. RESULTS This study included 147 Easypod™-naïve Mexican children assessed during 3 years (mean age: 9.96 ± 3.41 years, 56.8% boys, mean height SDS at baseline: - 2.17 ± 0.97): 118 with GHD, 24 SGA and 5 with TS. A total of 105 (71.4%) patients were GH naïve. Overall median adherence was > 90% over the first year of treatment and > 80% at 3 years. Adherence was not different by r-hGH indication or between GH-naïve or experienced patients. At 1-year follow-up, mean change in height SDS was 0.57 ± 0.34, whereas mean height velocity SDS was 2.85 ± 2.51. In all, 84.7% patients had normal IGF-1 concentrations at 1-year follow-up. Adherence was associated with change in height SDS (r = 0.239, p = 0.005) and height velocity SDS (r = 0.194, p = 0.027). CONCLUSION Adherence rates with the Easypod™ device are high and maintained over time in GHD, SGA and TS Easypod™-naïve Mexican patients. High adherence is associated with better outcomes. Easypod™ assists physicians in monitoring adherence to r-hGH.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Blanco-López
- Hospital Ángeles Interlomas and Hospital Español, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | | | | | | | | | - R Calzada-León
- Servicio de Endocrinología, Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - C C Rosas-Guerra
- Merck Biopharma Distribution S.A. de C.V, Naucalpan de Juárez, Mexico
| | - E Koledova
- Merck Healthcare KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - E Chiquete
- Departamento de Neurología y Psiquiatría, Instituto Nacional de Ciencias Médicas y Nutrición Salvador Zubirán, Delegacion Tlalpan, C.P. 14080, Ciudad de Mexico, México.
| | - A Ayala-Estrada
- Servicio de Pediatría, Hospital ISSEMyM, Toluca, Estado de México, México.
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Koledova E, Tornincasa V, van Dommelen P. Analysis of real-world data on growth hormone therapy adherence using a connected injection device. BMC Med Inform Decis Mak 2020; 20:176. [PMID: 32727461 PMCID: PMC7389874 DOI: 10.1186/s12911-020-01183-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Poor adherence to long-term recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) treatment can lead to suboptimal clinical outcomes; consequently, supporting and monitoring adherence is a crucial part of patient management. We assessed adherence to r-hGH treatment in children with growth disorders over 48 months using a connected monitoring device (easypod™), which automatically transmits adherence data via an online portal (easypod™ connect); both sit within an adherence decision support system (ADSS). We also investigated the effect of age and sex on adherence. Methods Data from children transmitting over 10 injections between January 2007 and February 2019 were analyzed. Adherence (mg injected/mg prescribed) was categorized as high (≥85%), intermediate (> 56–84%) or low (≤56%) and assessed at seven time points from the start of treatment up to 48 months. Adherence was investigated over time and stratified by puberty status and sex. Mean transmission rate in each adherence category (total number of transmissions/total number of children) at each time point was calculated as a proxy measure of engagement in disease and treatment management. Descriptive analyses were performed. Results Longitudinal records were available for 13,553 children. Overall, 71% (n = 9578) had high adherence, 22% (n = 2989) intermediate and 7% (n = 986) low. The proportion of children with high adherence decreased over time from 87% (n = 12,964) to 65% (n = 957) and was higher in pre-pubertal than pubertal children (girls: 80% [n = 1270] vs 70% [n = 4496]; boys 79% [n = 2573] vs 65% [n = 5214]). Children with high adherence had a higher mean number of transmissions (12.5 [SD 24.9]) than children with intermediate (7.2 [SD 15.3]) or low (3.5 [SD 5.7]) adherence. Conclusions High adherence was seen in patients administering r-hGH using the connected device. Children with high adherence were most likely to regularly transmit data. Pubertal children showed lower adherence. We show the potential to develop an ADSS to analyze trends in real-world adherence data. This may prove useful to direct interventions to improve adherence while the ability to readily share data with healthcare professionals may itself improve adherence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ekaterina Koledova
- Endocrinology Global Medical, Safety and CMO, Merck KGaA, 64293, Darmstadt, Germany.
| | - Vincenzo Tornincasa
- Merck Connected Health and Devices, Ares Trading S.A., an affiliate of Merck KGaA, 1262, Eysins, Switzerland
| | - Paula van Dommelen
- The Netherlands Organization for Applied Scientific Research TNO, Leiden, The Netherlands
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Wit JM, Deeb A, Bin-Abbas B, Al Mutair A, Koledova E, Savage MO. Achieving Optimal Short- and Long-term Responses to Paediatric Growth Hormone Therapy. J Clin Res Pediatr Endocrinol 2019; 11:329-340. [PMID: 31284701 PMCID: PMC6878339 DOI: 10.4274/jcrpe.galenos.2019.2019.0088] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/25/2019] [Accepted: 07/05/2019] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
It is over sixty years since the first administration of human growth hormone (GH) to children with GH deficiency, and over thirty years since recombinant human GH has been available for treatment of GH deficiency and a wider range of non-GH deficiency disorders. From a diagnostic perspective, genetic analysis, using single gene or Sanger sequencing and more recently next generation or whole exome sequencing, has brought advances in the diagnosis of specific causes of short stature, which has enabled therapy to be targeted more accurately. Genetic discoveries have ranged from defects of pituitary development and GH action to abnormalities in intracellular mechanisms, paracrine regulation and cartilage matrix formation. The strategy of GH therapy using standard doses has evolved to individualised GH dosing, depending on diagnosis and predictors of growth response. Evidence of efficacy of GH in GH deficiency, Turner syndrome and short children born small for gestational age is reviewed. The importance of critical assessment of growth response is discussed, together with the recognition and management of a poor or unsatisfactory growth response and the organisational issues related to prevention, detection and intervention regarding suboptimal adherence to GH therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jan M. Wit
- Leiden University Medical Centre, Department of Paediatrics, Leiden, Netherlands
| | - Asma Deeb
- Mafraq Hospital, Clinic of Paediatric Endocrinology, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
| | - Bassam Bin-Abbas
- King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Center, Department of Paediatrics, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Angham Al Mutair
- King Abdullah Specialised Children’s Hospital, Ministry of National Guard Health Affairs, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- King Abdullah International Medical Research, Clinic of Paediatrics, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
- King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Science, Clinic of Paediatrics, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Martin O. Savage
- William Harvey Research Institute, Barts and the London Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, London, United Kingdom
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Foo J, Maghnie M, Colao A, Vlachaki I, Colombo G. Cost-consequence analysis for human recombinant growth hormone (r-hGH) treatment administered via different devices in children with growth hormone deficiency in Italy. CLINICOECONOMICS AND OUTCOMES RESEARCH 2019; 11:525-537. [PMID: 31692496 PMCID: PMC6710537 DOI: 10.2147/ceor.s195265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/06/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The objective of this analysis was to evaluate the cost-consequence of recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) administered via the easypod auto-injector (Merck, Darmstadt, Germany) versus conventional devices in children with growth hormone deficiency in Italy. Methods A patient-level simulation, decision-analytical model was developed to estimate the average height gains and growth hormone treatment costs for a cohort of boys and girls until their bone maturation age. The calculations were performed using listed growth hormone drug prices (base case) and a scenario analysis was also conducted using published tender prices. Costs were discounted at 3%. Results Due to improved adherence and earlier identification of poor responders, patients receiving somatropin with easypod gained, on average, 3.2 cm more than patients receiving other r-hGH treatments. Somatropin with easypod had the second highest total cost including wastage (€96,710), but had the second lowest cost per cm gained (€7699/cm). In the scenario analysis, somatropin with easypod had the lowest cost per cm gained (€4708/cm) amongst all of the compared treatments. Conclusion Somatropin with easypod can be cost-saving versus all other r-hGH treatments except Omnitrope when listed drug prices are considered and can be cost-saving versus all other r-hGH treatments when tender drug prices are considered. The easypod device also facilitates cost savings in terms of reduced wastage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jason Foo
- Global Health Economics, Mapi Group (An ICON plc Company), Houten, The Netherlands
| | - Mohamad Maghnie
- Department of Pediatrics, IRCCS Istituto Giannina Gaslini Institute, University of Genova, Genova, Italy
| | - Annamaria Colao
- Department of Clinical Medicine and Surgery, University Federico II of Naples, 80131 Napoli, Italy
| | | | - Giorgio Colombo
- Department of Drug Science, Pavia University, Pavia, Italy.,SAVE Studi - Health Economics & Outcomes Research, Milan, Italy
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11
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Maggio MC, Vergara B, Porcelli P, Corsello G. Improvement of treatment adherence with growth hormone by easypod™ device: experience of an Italian centre. Ital J Pediatr 2018; 44:113. [PMID: 30261918 PMCID: PMC6161418 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-018-0548-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND One of the most important vulnerabilities falling the efficacy of recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) treatment is low adherence especially in young patients. This study was planned to describe the correlation between r-hGH treatment efficacy and adherence in real-life setting using easypod™. METHODS Forty patients younger than 18 years, affected by a clinical condition in which r-hGH is available and treated with r-hGH easypod™, were enrolled in a retrospective, observational, real-world data, monocentric trial. The study design provided the retrospective collection of records collected by a questionnaire proposed to the patients and their parents and compared with registered data by the new generation electronic device r-hGH easypod™. Number of injections and doses were collected and used to assess the percentage of administered GH doses to measure treatment adherence. The r-hGH treatment efficacy was evaluated comparing standard deviation score for height (SDS) between baseline and follow-up visit, according to clinical practice. RESULTS The mean treatment adherence was 92.20% and it was inversely related to patients' age (R = - 0.358, p = 0.023), and significantly higher in the sub-group of patients with age between 10 and 13 years. Treatment adherence showed an inverse correlation with the years of therapy (R = - 0.453, p = 0.003) and with the number of r-hGH administrations (R = - 0.392, p = 0.012). However, the height increase did not reach a significant correlation with treatment adherence (R = - 0.067, p = 0.683). CONCLUSIONS Children and adolescent patients with GH deficiency due to different clinical conditions show high adherence to r-hGH treatment tested by easypod™. Easypod™ could be used as an important device to control patients' adherence in daily treatment for chronic diseases with expensive drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Cristina Maggio
- University Department Pro.Sa.M.I. "G. D'Alessandro", University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy.
| | - Beatrice Vergara
- University Department Pro.Sa.M.I. "G. D'Alessandro", University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
| | - Paolo Porcelli
- Unit of Endocrinology, "Ospedali Riuniti Villa Sofia-Cervello", Palermo, Italy
| | - Giovanni Corsello
- University Department Pro.Sa.M.I. "G. D'Alessandro", University of Palermo, Palermo, Italy
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Acerini CL, Wac K, Bang P, Lehwalder D. Optimizing Patient Management and Adherence for Children Receiving Growth Hormone. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne) 2017; 8:313. [PMID: 29209274 PMCID: PMC5701910 DOI: 10.3389/fendo.2017.00313] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2017] [Accepted: 10/30/2017] [Indexed: 01/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Poor adherence with growth hormone (GH) therapy has been associated with worse clinical outcomes, which in children relates specifically to their linear growth and loss of quality of life. The "360° GH in Europe" meeting, held in Lisbon, Portugal, in June 2016 and funded by Merck KGaA (Germany), examined many aspects of GH diseases. The three sessions, entitled "Short Stature Diagnosis and Referral," "Optimizing Patient Management," and "Managing Transition," each benefited from three guest speaker presentations, followed by an open discussion and are reported as a manuscript, authored by the speakers. Reported here is a summary of the proceedings of the second session, which reviewed the determinants of GH therapy response, factors affecting GH therapy adherence and the development of innovative technologies to improve GH treatment in children. Response to GH therapy varies widely, particularly in regard to the underlying diagnosis, although there is little consensus on the definition of a poor response. If the growth response is seen to be less than expected, the possible reasons should be discussed with patients and their parents, including compliance with the therapy regimen. Understanding and addressing the multiple factors that influence adherence, in order to optimize GH therapy, requires a multi-disciplinary approach. Because therapy continues over many years, various healthcare professionals will be involved at different periods of the patient's journey. The role of the injection device for GH therapy, frequent monitoring of response, and patient support are all important for maintaining adherence. New injection devices are incorporating electronic technologies for automated monitoring and recording of clinically relevant information on injections. Study results are indicating that such devices can at least maintain GH adherence; however, acceptance of novel devices needs to be assessed and there remains an on-going need for innovations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlo L. Acerini
- Department of Paediatrics, University of Cambridge, Cambridge, United Kingdom
- *Correspondence: Carlo L. Acerini,
| | - Katarzyna Wac
- Quality of Life Technologies Laboratory, University of Geneva, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Peter Bang
- Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Linköping University, Linköping, Sweden
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Loche S, Salerno M, Garofalo P, Cardinale GM, Licenziati MR, Citro G, Caruso Nicoletti M, Cappa M, Longobardi S, Maghnie M, Perrone R. Adherence in children with growth hormone deficiency treated with r-hGH and the easypod™ device. J Endocrinol Invest 2016; 39:1419-1424. [PMID: 27406716 PMCID: PMC5107197 DOI: 10.1007/s40618-016-0510-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2016] [Accepted: 07/06/2016] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Poor adherence to recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) therapy is associated with reduced growth velocity in children with growth hormone deficiency (GHD). This twelve-month observational study was to assess adherence in r-hGH patients treated with the easypod™, an electronic, fully automated injection device designed to track the time, date and dose administered. METHODS Ninety-seven prepubertal patients receiving r-hGH therapy were included in the study from ten Italian clinical sites and 88 completed the study. To avoid possible confounding effects, only GHD patients (79/88; 89.7 % of the overall study population) were considered in the final analysis. The primary endpoint-adherence to treatment-was calculated as the proportion of injections correctly administered during the observational period out of the expected total number of injections. The relevant information, tracked by the easypod™, was collected at months 6 (V1) and 12 (V2) after baseline (V0). At study termination, adherence data were partially available from 16 patients and fully available from 53 patients. As secondary endpoints, serum IGF-1 levels, fasting serum glucose and insulin levels and key anthropometric characteristics (height, waist circumference and BMI) were also determined. RESULTS The easypod™ data showed that 56.7 % of the patients were considered to be fully (≥92 %) adherent to their treatment throughout the period V0-V2. Treatment improved stature, significantly increased IGF-1 and produced a non-significant increase in blood glucose and insulin levels. CONCLUSIONS The injection-recording system and other characteristics of easypod™ could enhance the ability of physicians to monitor adherence to r-hGH treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Loche
- SSD of Pediatric Endocrinology, Pediatric Hospital Microcitemico Antonio Cao AOB Cagliari, Via Edward Jenner, 09121, Cagliari, Italy.
| | - M Salerno
- Department of Translational Medical Sciences, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - P Garofalo
- Endocrinology Unit, AOOR Villa Sofia-Cervello, Palermo, Italy
| | - G M Cardinale
- Paediatric Division, Hospital F Ferrari, Casarano, Italy
| | - M R Licenziati
- Department of Pediatrics, AORN Santobono-Pausilipon, Naples, Italy
| | - G Citro
- Endocrinology Unit, Mother Theresa of Calcutta Territorial Specialist Centre, Potenza, Italy
| | - M Caruso Nicoletti
- Paediatric Endocrinology Service, University Hospital of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - M Cappa
- University-Hospital Department, Bambino Gesù Children's Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | | | - M Maghnie
- Department of Paediatrics, IRCCS Giannina Gaslini Institute, University of Genova, Genoa, Italy
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Rohrer TR, Horikawa R, Kappelgaard AM. Growth hormone delivery devices: current features and potential for enhanced treatment adherence. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2016; 14:1253-1264. [DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2017.1243526] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Tilman R. Rohrer
- Department of Pediatrics and Adolescent Medicine, Saarland University Medical Center, Homburg/Saar, Germany
| | - Reiko Horikawa
- Division of Endocrinology and Metabolism, National Center for Child Health and Development, Tokyo, Japan
| | - Anne-Marie Kappelgaard
- Clinical, Medical and Regulatory, Novo Nordisk International Operations A/G, Zurich, Switzerland
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Lass N, Reinehr T. Low Treatment Adherence in Pubertal Children Treated with Thyroxin or Growth Hormone. Horm Res Paediatr 2016; 84:240-7. [PMID: 26279278 DOI: 10.1159/000437305] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2015] [Accepted: 06/29/2015] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Treatment outcome depends largely on treatment adherence (TA). However, studies analyzing TA in chronic endocrine diseases are scarce and controversial in childhood. PATIENTS AND METHODS We studied TA in 103 children treated subcutaneously with growth hormone (GH) and 97 children treated orally with thyroxin. TA was calculated based on the prescription refill rates. The number of GH injections was recorded by an autoinjector device in 23 children treated with GH. RESULTS The correlation between recorded TA and calculated TA based on prescription refill rates was very good (p < 0.001, r = 0.83). TA was lower (p < 0.01) in pubertal children compared to prepubertal children and in children self-administering their medication compared to those whose drug was administered by their parents, both in GH- and thyroxin-treated children. Overall, 67% of the pubertal children treated with GH and 58% of the pubertal children treated with thyroxin missed at least 1 dose per week. TA was higher (p < 0.001) in children with thyroxin treatment compared to children treated with recombinant human GH (8 vs. 26% missed >3 doses/week). DISCUSSION Puberty and self-administration of drugs were negative predictors of TA. Therefore, in puberty, prevention and treatment efforts should be undertaken to improve TA, especially when adolescents administer their drugs themselves.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nina Lass
- Department of Pediatric Endocrinology, Diabetes and Nutrition Medicine, Vestische Hospital for Children and Adolescents Datteln, University of Witten/Herdecke, Datteln, Germany
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Pollock RF, Kappelgaard AM, Seitz L. An analysis of product wastage arising from dosing increment granularity in four modern growth hormone administration devices. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2015; 12:353-60. [PMID: 25614081 DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2015.1003805] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Human growth hormone (hGH) delivery systems differ in the size of the dose increments that can be set by the patient, affecting proximity to the target (i.e., prescribed) dose which can be attained. We investigated differences in dosing increment granularity in NordiFlex®, FlexPro®, NordiPen® (all multiple dose devices) and MiniQuick® (single dose) delivery systems. METHODS A simulation model was developed to project hGH dosing in pediatric patients with growth hormone deficiency, small for gestational age or Turner syndrome, calculating the nearest dose above the target dose administrable by each device in typical EU and US cohorts and projecting the excess dose (hGH wastage) over 1 year of typical use. RESULTS The device with the smallest dosing increment (FlexPro 5 mg; 0.025 mg dosing increment) was projected to administer doses < 1% above the target across all indications. MiniQuick (0.2 mg dosing increment) was projected to deliver between 5 and 6% above the target dose. None of the sensitivity analyses changed the conclusion that larger dosing increments result in more hGH wastage. CONCLUSIONS In addition to increasing dosing accuracy, finer dosing increments may result in reductions in unnecessary hGH usage, which may in turn result in reductions in the cost of hGH treatment borne by the health-care payer.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richard F Pollock
- Ossian Health Economics and Communications GmbH , Bäumleingasse 20, 4051 Basel , Switzerland +41 61 271 6214 ;
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Hartmann K, Ittner J, Müller-Rossberg E, Schönau E, Stephan R, Ullrich KP, Hoppe B, Ramseger R, Brämswig J. Growth hormone treatment adherence in prepubertal and pubertal children with different growth disorders. Horm Res Paediatr 2014; 80:1-5. [PMID: 23860437 DOI: 10.1159/000351800] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2012] [Accepted: 05/03/2013] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND/AIMS Treatment of children with growth disorders with recombinant human growth hormone is necessary for improved outcomes, including final height. METHODS Adherence data from the Observational Study Saizen®-online, recorded with the easypod™ device collected between October 2009 and May 2011, were analyzed in pediatric patients receiving recombinant human growth hormone treatment for a variety of growth disorders. RESULTS Data from 75 children (46 boys, 29 girls) with different growth disorders were analyzed over a period of 343 ± 201 (SD) days. Boys and girls showed similar mean ± SD adherence rates of 90.5 ± 3.1% and 92.2 ± 10.7%, respectively. Pubertal children (n = 41) had a significantly lower adherence rate (89.1 ± 13.7%) than prepubertal children (n = 29) (96.5 ± 3.9%; p < 0.005). There were nonsignificant differences in adherence rates according to diagnosis: growth hormone deficiency (n = 48) 91.4 ± 11.0%, small for gestational age (n = 18) 91.1 ± 15.3%, Turner syndrome (n = 6) 86.0 ± 14.5%, and chronic renal failure (n = 3) 99.3 ± 1.0%, although the latter two groups were small. CONCLUSION Our data indicate that only a small number of pediatric patients using the easypod device had poor adherence to treatment. Further reliable adherence data are required to identify factors affecting long-term adherence in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- Klaus Hartmann
- Medical Centre of Childhood and Adolescence, Frankfurt, Germany.
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Exell S, Verdun E, Driebergen R. A new electronic device for subcutaneous injection of IFN-β-1a. Expert Rev Med Devices 2014; 8:543-53. [DOI: 10.1586/erd.11.29] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Lugaresi A. RebiSmart™ (version 1.5) device for multiple sclerosis treatment delivery and adherence. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2012; 10:273-83. [DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2013.746311] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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Review of subcutaneous interferon β-1a, delivered via the electronic self-injection device RebiSmart™, for the treatment of multiple sclerosis. Ther Deliv 2011; 2:1455-65. [DOI: 10.4155/tde.11.116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease requiring lifelong treatment with disease-modifying drugs that aim to prevent relapses and slow the progression of disability. The established first-line treatments for multiple sclerosis all require regular injections, and real-world observations suggest that long-term adherence to treatment is low. Indeed, poor adherence to disease-modifying drug treatment has been associated with poorer clinical outcomes. Autoinjectors have been developed to improve the success of self-injection, whilst also making injections more comfortable for patients, with the aim of minimizing obstacles to treatment adherence. RebiSmart™ is a new electronic autoinjector for subcutaneous administration of interferon β-1a (Rebif®) that includes several unique features designed to further reduce barriers to adherence, including a dosing log and adjustable comfort settings.
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Christen M, Schertz JC, Arriagada P, Keitel J, Müller H. The redesigned follitropin α pen injector for infertility treatment. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2011; 8:833-9. [PMID: 21548843 DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2011.581658] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Treatment for infertility may require multiple drugs and complex dosing schedules. Available injection devices for patients who require regular injections during treatment are reviewed in this article, focusing on pen injectors used to self-administer recombinant human follicle-stimulating hormone (follitropin α). Following the introduction of the first and second follitropin α pen injectors in the last decade, a third pen injector with improved design for the administration of follitropin α has been developed for use in fertility treatment cycles. AREAS COVERED This paper presents the results of the dose accuracy testing with this pen injector that was performed in accordance with international standards (EN ISO 11608-1:2000). This overview also provides an understanding of the key features of the redesigned pen injector that are of interest to healthcare professionals. EXPERT OPINION The availability of an improved injection device for the delivery of follitropin α used during infertility treatment cycles of ovulation induction and assisted reproductive technology offers patients and healthcare professionals new treatment administration options. As fertility treatment cycles involve the use of several injectable gonadotropins, a standard device that could be used for all such treatments would simplify both the administration and the teaching of administration considerably.
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Deleu D, Alsharoqi I, Jumah MAA, Tahan ARA, Bohlega S, Dahdaleh M, Inshasi J, Khalifa A, Szólics M, Yamout BI. Will New Injection Devices for Interferon Beta-1a s.c. Affect Treatment Adherence in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis? An Expert Opinion in the Middle East. Int J Neurosci 2011; 121:171-5. [DOI: 10.3109/00207454.2010.541572] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
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Bozzola M, Colle M, Halldin-Stenlid M, Larroque S, Zignani M. Treatment adherence with the easypod™ growth hormone electronic auto-injector and patient acceptance: survey results from 824 children and their parents. BMC Endocr Disord 2011; 11:4. [PMID: 21294891 PMCID: PMC3045978 DOI: 10.1186/1472-6823-11-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/13/2010] [Accepted: 02/04/2011] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Accurately monitoring adherence to treatment with recombinant human growth hormone (r-hGH) enables appropriate intervention in cases of poor adherence. The electronic r-hGH auto-injector, easypod™, automatically records the patient's adherence to treatment. This study evaluated adherence to treatment of children who started using the auto-injector and assessed opinions about the device. METHODS A multicentre, multinational, observational 3-month survey in which children received r-hGH as part of their normal care. Physicians reviewed the recorded dose history and children (with or without parental assistance) completed a questionnaire-based survey. Children missing ≤2 injections per month (92% of injections given) were considered adherent to treatment. Adherence was compared between GH treatment-naïve and treatment-experienced children. RESULTS Of 834 recruited participants, 824 were evaluated. The median (range) age was 11 (1-18) years. From the recorded dose history, 87.5% of children were adherent to treatment over the 3-month period. Recorded adherence was higher in treatment-naïve (89.7%, n = 445/496) than in treatment-experienced children (81.7%, n = 152/186) [Fisher's exact test FI(X) = 7.577; p = 0.0062]. According to self-reported data, 90.2% (607/673) of children were adherent over 3 months; 51.5% (421/817) missed ≥1 injection over this period (mainly due to forgetfulness). Concordance between reported and recorded adherence was 84.3%, with a trend towards self-reported adherence being higher than recorded adherence. Most children liked the auto-injector: over 80% gave the top two responses from five options for ease of use (720/779), speed (684/805) and comfort (716/804). Although 38.5% (300/780) of children reported pain on injection, over half of children (210/363) considered the pain to be less or much less than expected. Given the choice, 91.8% (732/797) of children/parents would continue using the device. CONCLUSIONS easypod™ provides an accurate method of monitoring adherence to treatment with r-hGH. In children who received treatment with r-hGH using easypod™, short-term adherence is good, and significantly higher in treatment-naïve children compared with experienced children. Children/parents rate the device highly. The high level of acceptability of the device is reflected by a desire to continue using it by over 90% of the children in the survey.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mauro Bozzola
- Paediatric Department, University of Pavia, IRCCS San Matteo Foundation, Pavia, Italy
| | | | | | - Sylvain Larroque
- Merck Serono S.A. - Geneva, Switzerland, an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Monia Zignani
- Merck Serono S.A. - Geneva, Switzerland, an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
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Pfützner A, Hartmann K, Winter F, Fuchs GS, Kappelgaard AM, Rohrer TR. Intuitiveness, ease of use, and preference of a prefilled growth hormone injection pen: A noninterventional, randomized, open-label, crossover, comparative usability study of three delivery devices in growth hormone-treated pediatric patients. Clin Ther 2010; 32:1918-34. [DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2010.10.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/08/2010] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
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Denson LA. Growth hormone therapy in children and adolescents: pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic considerations and emerging indications. Expert Opin Drug Metab Toxicol 2008; 4:1569-80. [DOI: 10.1517/17425250802465347] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
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