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Colten SS, di Cantogno EV, Jack D. Preferences and Perspectives of Specialist Multiple Sclerosis Nurses and Patients with Multiple Sclerosis Regarding the New RebiSmart ® 3.0 Autoinjector versus Other Assistive Devices. MEDICAL DEVICES-EVIDENCE AND RESEARCH 2024; 17:59-71. [PMID: 38404632 PMCID: PMC10886227 DOI: 10.2147/mder.s438883] [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] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Purpose RebiSmart® is an electromechanical multidose autoinjector developed for administering subcutaneous interferon beta-1a in patients with multiple sclerosis (pwMS). This online survey aimed to understand MS nurses' and pwMS preferences and perceptions regarding the features of an upgraded version of the RebiSmart device (RebiSmart 3.0) compared to other assistive devices used for multiple sclerosis (MS) therapy. Patients and Methods Eligible MS nurses and pwMS from Germany, Italy, and the United Kingdom completed a double-blind, 30-minute online self-administered questionnaire, including a 10-minute video describing the features of RebiSmart 3.0 and its use in administering interferon beta-1a. Results In total, 102 participants (MS nurses, n=52; patients, n=50) completed the survey. Overall, 70% respondents found the RebiSmart 3.0 device "very"/"extremely" appealing, 53% were "very"/"extremely" interested in learning more, and 71% stated they would be "very"/"extremely" comfortable using (pwMS) or educating (MS nurses) on it. Among current or recent RebiSmart 2.0 users (vs RebiSmart 2.0 nonusers), 67% (vs 52%) rated RebiSmart 3.0 "very" or "extremely" appealing, 52% (vs 43%) were "very" or "extremely" interested in learning more about the device, and 67% (vs 48%) stated they would be "very" or "extremely" comfortable using the RebiSmart 3.0 device. Respondents ranked customizable injection process (including injection speed, hold time, depth and rotation guide), self-injection process, and hidden needle as the most important self-assistive device features. RebiSmart 3.0 was rated higher than other self-injecting devices on all tested features. Overall, with respect to the top three features, 89% of the MS nurses and 73% of PwMS rated RebiSmart 3.0 "very good" or "excellent". After reviewing the video, 52% respondents had no questions, 67% nurses recommended providing more information on the customizable injection process feature of RebiSmart 3.0 to patients, and 88% nurses considered patient demonstration materials to be the most helpful type of information for them when initiating and educating pwMS on self-assistive devices. Conclusion The overall reactions of MS nurses and pwMS to the RebiSmart 3.0 device features were positive. The incremental advances over previous versions of the device as well as in comparison with other currently available assistive devices were welcomed. The MS nurses identified key needs for patient education on the use of the device and the suitable approaches (training videos and educational leaflets) to support MS nurses and pwMS.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sridevi S Colten
- Department of MS Market Research & Analysis, EMD Serono Research and Development Institute, Inc. (an Affiliate of Merck KGaA), Billerica, MA, USA
| | - Elisabetta Verdun di Cantogno
- Department of MS Medical Affairs, EMD Serono Research and Development Institute, Inc. (an Affiliate of Merck KGaA), Billerica, MA, USA
| | - Dominic Jack
- Department of N&I Global Medical Affairs, Merck Serono Ltd. (an Affiliate of Merck KGaA), Feltham, UK
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Pavelek Z, Novotný M, Klímová B, Peterka M, Potužník P, Kövári M, Vališ M. DORADA adherence study: full view into RebiSmart subdomains parameters in multiple sclerosis treatment. Curr Med Res Opin 2021; 37:589-596. [PMID: 33538199 DOI: 10.1080/03007995.2021.1880886] [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] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE The aim of this article is to provide unique and detailed data on how patients rate the RebiSmart 2.0 in the specific User Study Questionnaire (USQ) domains, and the relationship between their rating and individual level of disability, baseline demographic/socioeconomic factors, and adherence. PATIENTS AND METHODS Twelve-month, phase IV, observational, multicenter study (no placebo or comparator) to evaluate the ease of use of the RebiSmart autoinjector for self-injection during treatment of CIS/RRMS subjects with Rebif 44 mcg sc three times a week by USQ. A total of 290 subjects participated in the study, with 249 (85.86%) completing the entire study period. RESULTS The endpoint results demonstrated a very high proportion (>95%) of patients with a positive evaluation of the overall convenience of RebiSmart at each study visit. At the end of the study, all patients would recommend the device to others who need Rebif therapy. The proportion of patients rating the RebiSmart ease of use by individual domains (self-injection steps, changing the cartridge, using the device away from home) as "very easy to use" or "easy to use" and the proportion of patients rating the RebiSmart functions as "helpful" or "very helpful" were more than 80% for each domain at each study visit. CONCLUSION These findings are in line with the potential benefits of RebiSmart to treatment adherence. They demonstrate an overall, very good perception of the device by patients and its individual functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zbyšek Pavelek
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Michal Novotný
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Blanka Klímová
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
| | - Marek Peterka
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Plzen, Plzen, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Potužník
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Plzen, Plzen, Czech Republic
| | - Martina Kövári
- Department of Rehabilitation and Sports Medicine, 2nd Faculty of Medicine, Charles University in Prague and Motol University Hospital, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Martin Vališ
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital Hradec Kralove, Hradec Kralove, Czech Republic
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Vališ M, Šarláková J, Halúsková S, Klímová B, Potužník P, Peterka M, Kuča K, Štourač P, Mareš J, Pavelek Z. An observational study demonstrating the adherence and ease of use of the injector device, RebiSmart®. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2020; 17:719-724. [PMID: 32315204 DOI: 10.1080/17425247.2020.1742694] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
Background: Adherence to Multiple Sclerosis (MS) treatment is considered one of the crucial factors for ensuring optimal clinical outcomes. Research has shown that the use of self-injector devices improves patient compliance with treatment. Therefore, the main purpose of this study is to evaluate the ease of use of RebiSmart® 2.0 in clinically isolated syndrome/relapsing-remitting MS patients during 12 months treatment period.Methods: A total number of 290 subjects entered into data collection; 249 (86%) of them completed the whole 12 months study period. The primary endpoints and the secondary endpoints were assessed by the User Study Questionnaire. Adherence data were retrieved from RebiSmart® 2.0 (Menu - Dose History) on the respective patient's visit. Outcome measures also included Expanded Disability Status Score, Kurtzke Functional Systems, and Modified Social Support Survey, Modified Social Support Survey-5.Results: This study demonstrated a very high proportion (>95%) of patients with a positive rating of the overall ease of use and the overall convenience of RebiSmart®. The proportion of patients with a positive rating of the ease of use by individual domains and the functions of RebiSmart® were also high (>80%).Conclusion: The findings demonstrate a very good perception of the usability of the device by patients overall and in its individual functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martin Vališ
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Hradec Králové, Charles University in Prague, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Jana Šarláková
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Hradec Králové, Charles University in Prague, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Simona Halúsková
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Hradec Králové, Charles University in Prague, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Blanka Klímová
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Hradec Králové, Charles University in Prague, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Potužník
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Plzeň, Charles University in Prague, Plzeň, Czech Republic
| | - Marek Peterka
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Plzeň, Charles University in Prague, Plzeň, Czech Republic
| | - Kamil Kuča
- Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry, University of Hradec Králové, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
| | - Pavel Štourač
- Department of Neurology, University Hospital and Masaryk University, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Jan Mareš
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine, Palacky University and University Hospital Olomouc, Olomouc, Czech Republic
| | - Zbyšek Pavelek
- Department of Neurology, Faculty of Medicine and University Hospital Hradec Králové, Charles University in Prague, Hradec Králové, Czech Republic
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Zettl UK, Hecker M, Aktas O, Wagner T, Rommer PS. Interferon β-1a and β-1b for patients with multiple sclerosis: updates to current knowledge. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2018; 14:137-153. [DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2018.1426462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Uwe Klaus Zettl
- Department of Neurology, Neuroimmunology Section, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Michael Hecker
- Department of Neurology, Neuroimmunology Section, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Orhan Aktas
- Department of Neurology, Medical Faculty, Heinrich Heine University, Düsseldorf, Germany
| | - Torsten Wagner
- Department of Medical Affairs, Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
| | - Paulus S. Rommer
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
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Li Z, Easton R. Practical considerations in clinical strategy to support the development of injectable drug-device combination products for biologics. MAbs 2018; 10:18-33. [PMID: 29035675 PMCID: PMC5800388 DOI: 10.1080/19420862.2017.1392424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Revised: 10/07/2017] [Accepted: 10/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
The development of an injectable drug-device combination (DDC) product for biologics is an intricate and evolving process that requires substantial investments of time and money. Consequently, the commercial dosage form(s) or presentation(s) are often not ready when pivotal trials commence, and it is common to have drug product changes (manufacturing process or presentation) during clinical development. A scientifically sound and robust bridging strategy is required in order to introduce these changes into the clinic safely. There is currently no single developmental paradigm, but a risk-based hierarchical approach has been well accepted. The rigor required of a bridging package depends on the level of risk associated with the changes. Clinical pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic comparability or outcome studies are only required when important changes occur at a late stage. Moreover, an injectable DDC needs to be user-centric, and usability assessment in real-world clinical settings may be required to support the approval of a DDC. In this review, we discuss the common issues during the manufacturing process and presentation development of an injectable DDC and practical considerations in establishing a clinical strategy to address these issues, including key elements of clinical studies. We also analyze the current practice in the industry and review relevant and status of regulatory guidance in the DDC field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhaoyang Li
- Sanofi, Translational Medicine & Clinical Pharmacology, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Rachael Easton
- Sanofi, Translational Medicine & Clinical Pharmacology, 55 Corporate Drive, Bridgewater, NJ, USA
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Ghezzi A, Bianchi A, Baroncini D, Bertolotto A, Malucchi S, Bresciamorra V, Lanzillo R, Milani N, Martinelli V, Patti F, Chisari C, Rottoli M, Simone M, Paolicelli D, Visconti A. A multicenter, observational, prospective study of self- and parent-reported quality of life in adolescent multiple sclerosis patients self-administering interferon-β1a using RebiSmart™-the FUTURE study. Neurol Sci 2017; 38:1999-2005. [PMID: 28831635 DOI: 10.1007/s10072-017-3091-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2017] [Accepted: 08/07/2017] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
Besides the impact of disease per se, the use of immunomodulatory therapies in adolescents with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) may have an effect on quality of life (QL). The FUTURE (Quality of liFe in adolescent sUbjecTs affected by mUltiple sclerosis treated with immunomodulatoRy agEnt using self-injecting device) study was designed to evaluate the changes in QL of Italian adolescents with RRMS receiving treatment with IFN-β1a (Rebif; 22 μg), administered subcutaneously three times weekly using the RebiSmart™ electronic autoinjection device over a 52-week period. Fifty adolescents with RRMS were enrolled and 40 completed the study. Changes from baseline to end of treatment (EoT) in adolescent self-reported and parent-reported QL were assessed using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Multidimensional Fatigue Scale (PedsQL), which has been validated for use in pediatric MS and for which an Italian version is available. The adolescent self-reported total PedsQL4.0 score and all of its subscales tended to increase from baseline to EoT, the only exception being "Emotional functioning." In parent-reported measures, the total PedsQL4.0 score increased significantly from baseline to EoT (+ 5.27 points, p = 0.041). Significant increases were also evident for parent-reported "Psychosocial health summary score" (+ 5.90 points; p = 0.015) and "School functioning" (+ 7.84 points; p = 0.029). Our results indicate that adolescents with RRMS using the electronic injection device RebiSmart™ for self-administration of Rebif® can experience long-term improvements in QL.
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Affiliation(s)
- A Ghezzi
- Azienda Ospedaliera S. Antonio Abate, Gallarate, Italy.
| | - A Bianchi
- Azienda Ospedaliera S. Antonio Abate, Gallarate, Italy
| | - D Baroncini
- Azienda Ospedaliera S. Antonio Abate, Gallarate, Italy
| | - A Bertolotto
- AOU S. Luigi Gonzaga Neurologia 2 CRESM, Orbassano, Italy
| | - S Malucchi
- AOU S. Luigi Gonzaga Neurologia 2 CRESM, Orbassano, Italy
| | - V Bresciamorra
- Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - R Lanzillo
- Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - N Milani
- Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy
| | | | - F Patti
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, and Advanced Technologies, Neuroscience Section, Multiple Sclerosis Center, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - C Chisari
- Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, and Advanced Technologies, Neuroscience Section, Multiple Sclerosis Center, University of Catania, Catania, Italy
| | - M Rottoli
- Neurologia USS Malattie Autoimmuni - Centro Sclerosi Multipla ASST Papa Giovanni XXIII, Bergamo, Italy
| | - M Simone
- Dip di Scienze mediche di Base, Neuroscienze ed Organi di Senso Università di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - D Paolicelli
- Dip di Scienze mediche di Base, Neuroscienze ed Organi di Senso Università di Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - A Visconti
- Medical Affair Department Merck Serono, Rome, Italy
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Järvinen E, Multanen J, Atula S. Subcutaneous Interferon β-1a Administration by Electronic Auto-injector is Associated with High Adherence in Patients with Relapsing Remitting Multiple Sclerosis in a Real-life Study. Neurol Int 2017; 9:6957. [PMID: 28286627 PMCID: PMC5337756 DOI: 10.4081/ni.2017.6957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 01/15/2017] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
The objective was to investigate adherence measured by an electronic auto-injector device, and self-reported adherence and treatment convenience in subjects with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS), using an electronic auto-injector Rebismart® to self-inject interferon β-1a. Thirty one patients with RRMS using the electronic auto-injector Rebismart® for self-injecting interferon β-1a subcutaneously three times weekly were included in a real-life clinical multicenter study for 24 weeks in Finland. Mean adherence reported by the device and mean self-assessment of adherence were studied. Reasons for missing injections and treatment convenience were assessed. Association between adherence and gender and age were studied. The mean adherence calculated from the device data was 93.5%. The mean self-assessment of adherence was 96.6%. The most common reason for missing an injection was forget-fulness. Adherence (measured by the device) was not changed over time. In the high adherence group there were more females and young patients (<30 years of age). The auto-injector was found to substantially ease the treatment by 90% of the patients. The electronic auto-injector was associated with high adherence to treatment. The device was found to ease the patient’s treatment and it was perceived as easy to use. It is a convenient tool to assess patient’s adherence to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Sari Atula
- Helsinki University Central Hospital , Helsinki, Finland
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Lugaresi A, De Robertis F, Clerico M, Brescia Morra V, Centonze D, Borghesan S, Maniscalco GT. Long-term adherence of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis to subcutaneous self-injections of interferon β-1a using an electronic device: the RIVER study. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2016; 13:931-5. [PMID: 26909646 DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2016.1148029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES The BRIDGE study has previously shown a high short-term (12 weeks) adherence rate (>85%) of patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) to subcutaneous self-injections of interferon β-1a using an electronic auto-injection device (RebiSmart®). The primary goal of the RIVER study was to investigate in a real-life setting the long-term adherence to the use of RebiSmart among patients enrolled in the parent BRIDGE study. METHODS The RIVER study was designed as a real-life extension study of the BRIDGE trial. RRMS patients who completed BRIDGE and still had an indication for treatment were included. Data were collected prospectively through the RebiSmart device, and analyzed retrospectively. Long term adherence (administration of ≥ 80% of injections) to and safety of RebiSmart were assessed. The expected follow-up period ranged from 19 to 26 months. RESULTS A total of 57 RRMS patients participated in the follow-up study. The mean observation period was 20.5 ± 5.7 months. The overall adherence to the use of RebiSmart in the entire study cohort was 79.8% (median = 85.2%, range = 16-100%). There were 36 patients (63.2%) who completed at least 80% of the scheduled injections. No statistically significant differences were found between adherent and non-adherent patients in terms of age, sex, duration of the observation period, and occurrence of relapses. No serious treatment-related adverse events occurred. CONCLUSIONS This study showed a high level of long-term adherence to the use of RebiSmart, with 63.2% of participants meeting the criterion for adherence to treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandra Lugaresi
- a Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences , G. 'd'Annunzio University' - S.S. Annunziata Hospital , Chieti , Italy
| | | | - Marinella Clerico
- c Division of Neurology, Department of Clinical and Biological Science , S. 'Luigi Gonzaga' Hospital, University of Turin , Orbassano , Italy
| | | | - Diego Centonze
- e Department of Neuroscience , Tor Vergata University, Rome & IRCCS Neuromed , Pozzilli , IS , Italy
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Bayas A, Ouallet JC, Kallmann B, Hupperts R, Fulda U, Marhardt K. Adherence to, and effectiveness of, subcutaneous interferon β-1a administered by RebiSmart® in patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis: results of the 1-year, observational SMART study. Expert Opin Drug Deliv 2015; 12:1239-50. [PMID: 26098143 DOI: 10.1517/17425247.2015.1057567] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/05/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with multiple sclerosis who have poor adherence to treatment have a higher risk of relapse than adherent patients. This study assessed adherence to, and effectiveness and convenience of, treatment with subcutaneous (sc) interferon (IFN) β-1a (Rebif®, Merck Serono SA) 44 or 22 μg three times weekly in patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) using the RebiSmart® electronic, multidose, autoinjector for 1 year. STUDY DESIGN European, multicentre, observational study among neurologists: inclusion criteria included RMS, Expanded Disability Status Scale score ≤ 6, sc IFN β-1a administered by RebiSmart for ≤ 6 weeks. The primary endpoint was cumulative adherence recorded by RebiSmart. RESULTS The safety population included 912 patients, 77.4% (n = 823) of whom completed the Month-12 visit. Mean (± standard deviation) cumulative adherence was 97.1 ± 7.3% (n = 791). The most common reason for missed injection was 'forgot to inject' (37.0%). At Month 12/ED, 79.5% of patients were relapse-free. Of 353 patients who rated the convenience of the device, 68.3% found injecting 'very easy'. No unknown safety issues were detected. CONCLUSIONS Patients with RMS self-injecting sc IFN β-1a with RebiSmart had excellent adherence at Month 12/ED, which was associated with good clinical outcomes and no unexpected safety issues. Patients rated RebiSmart as convenient and easy to use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Antonios Bayas
- Department of Neurology, Klinikum Augsburg , Stenglinstr 2, D-86156, Augsburg , Germany +49 821 400 3892 ; +49 821 400 2691 ;
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Willis H, Webster J, Larkin AM, Parkes L. An observational, retrospective, UK and Ireland audit of patient adherence to subcutaneous interferon beta-1a injections using the RebiSmart(®) injection device. Patient Prefer Adherence 2014; 8:843-51. [PMID: 24966669 PMCID: PMC4062562 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s54986] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Poor adherence to disease-modifying drugs is associated with an increased risk of relapse in patients with multiple sclerosis. However, adherence is difficult to assess objectively. RebiSmart(®) (Merck Serono SA, Geneva, Switzerland), a device for subcutaneous (sc) injection of interferon (IFN) β-1a, features an electronic injection log that can assist in objective monitoring of adherence. OBJECTIVE To assess adherence to sc IFN β-1a injections using data from RebiSmart(®). METHODS This was a single-group, observational, retrospective audit. Adherence data were collected from patients with relapsing multiple sclerosis in the United Kingdom and Ireland who had been prescribed sc IFN β-1a and had been using RebiSmart(®) for a minimum of 24 months. RESULTS In total, 225 patients were included in the full analysis set; 72% were in the United Kingdom, and 28% were in Ireland. Overall, the mean age was 44.1 years, and 73% were women. Patients received sc IFN β-1a 44 µg (68%) or 22 µg (32%) three times per week. Mean adherence over the course of 24 months was 95.0% (median, 99.4%), and similar values were observed across all periods. The proportion of patients with 80% or higher adherence was 92.0% at 12 months and 91.1% at 24 months. CONCLUSION High adherence to sc IFN β-1a was observed across all patient groups using RebiSmart(®), according to 2-year treatment adherence data. This may be partly attributed to the expert support patients received, supplemented by routine and regular contact from the MySupport patient-support program, as well as the self-motivation of patients who persisted with treatment for 2 or more years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helen Willis
- Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford, Essex, United Kingdom
- Correspondence: Helen Willis, Mid Essex Hospital Services National Health Service Trust, Broomfield Hospital, Court Road, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 7ET, United Kingdom, Tel +44 01245 516 829, Fax +44 01245 513 9756, Email
| | - Julie Webster
- Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford, Essex, United Kingdom
| | | | - Laura Parkes
- Medical Affairs, Merck Serono Ltd, Feltham, United Kingdom
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Boeru G, Milanov I, De Robertis F, Kozubski W, Lang M, Rojas-Farreras S, Tomlinson M. ExtaviJect® 30G device for subcutaneous self-injection of interferon beta-1b for multiple sclerosis: a prospective European study. MEDICAL DEVICES-EVIDENCE AND RESEARCH 2013; 6:175-84. [PMID: 24255602 PMCID: PMC3832381 DOI: 10.2147/mder.s52590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The ExtaviJect® 30G autoinjector was developed to facilitate parenteral self-administration of interferon beta-1b (Extavia®), a first-line disease-modifying therapy in patients with multiple sclerosis. Our aim was to assess patient compliance with treatment when using the autoinjector, patients’ and nurses’ experiences of using the device, its tolerability, and patient satisfaction. Methods This was a 12-week, real-world, prospective, observational, noninterventional study conducted in nine European countries. Questionnaires were used to measure patient compliance and to assess patients’ and nurses’ experiences. All adverse events were recorded by severity, including injection site reactions or pain. Patient satisfaction and health-related quality of life were assessed using the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication-9 (TSQM-9) and EuroQol-5 Dimension (EQ-5D) instruments, respectively. Results Of 582 patients enrolled, 568 (98%) received at least one injection and attended the first follow-up visit at 6 weeks, and 542 (93%) attended the second follow-up visit at 12 weeks. For the whole study, 548 of 568 (97%) patients were compliant with treatment. Among the various questions assessing whether the device was easy and quick to use accurately, without fear of the needle, 56%–98% of patients and 59%–98% of nurses were in agreement. There were nine serious adverse events (four disease-related) reported among the 227 (39%) patients reporting adverse events. Scores increased in the TSQM-9 convenience domain between weeks 6 and 12 (P=0.0009), and in the EQ-5D visual analog scale between baseline and week 12 (P<0.0001), indicating improvement in health-related quality of life. Conclusion ExtaviJect 30G was convenient to use and was associated with high levels of compliance.
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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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