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Driscoll DJO, McCarthy S. Antipsychotic prescribing: national findings of children and adolescents attending mental health services in Ireland. Eur Child Adolesc Psychiatry 2024:10.1007/s00787-024-02428-4. [PMID: 38607458 DOI: 10.1007/s00787-024-02428-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/19/2023] [Accepted: 03/23/2024] [Indexed: 04/13/2024]
Abstract
Antipsychotic prescribing trends vary internationally, albeit off-label use remains high (i.e., target symptoms). We aim to describe antipsychotic use, target conditions, target symptoms and dosing regimens in children and adolescents in Ireland. We used a sampled cohort from a national audit of children and adolescents attending mental health services with predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria from Jul-2021 to Dec-2021 who were prescribed at least one psychotropic medication and up to and including 17-years of age (n = 3528). Each service provided anonymised data. We described the frequency of antipsychotic medication, medication type, target condition, target symptom and medication doses. We used multivariable logistic regression, adjusted with available co-variates to assess the association of being prescribed an antipsychotic medication. Twelve percentage (n = 437) were prescribed an antipsychotic and 16-17-years (n = 211, 48.3%) was the most common age category. The commonest reason for prescribing an antipsychotic was target symptoms (i.e., off-label use) (n = 329; 75.%) and of these symptoms, agitation (n = 77/329; 25%) and irritability (56/239; 25%) were the most common. Quetiapine (n = 127; 29%) was the most common antipsychotic, followed by risperidone (n = 125; 28.6%), aripiprazole (n = 107; 24.5%), and olanzapine (n = 66; 15.1%). In adjusted analysis, having a psychotic disorder ((adjusted-odds-ratio) aOR: 39.63, CI 95%, 13.40-117.22), bipolar disorder (aOR: 16.96, CI 95%, 3.60-80.00), autism spectrum disorder (aOR: 3.24, CI 95%, 2.45-4.28) or aggression symptoms (aOR: 16.75, CI 95%, 7.22-38.89) was associated with prescribing an antipsychotic medication. This is the first study in children and adolescents that describes the target conditions and target symptoms for antipsychotic use in Ireland. Our results show a high proportion of antipsychotic prescribing based on target symptoms rather than target condition or diagnosis.
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Affiliation(s)
- David J O Driscoll
- School of Public Health, Western Gateway Building, University College Cork, Cork, Ireland.
- Specialist Neurodevelopmental ADHD Pathway (SNAP), Cork and Kerry Mental Health Services, Cork, Ireland.
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Giacomini P, Ciliberto G. Molecular Tumor Boards: On the evolution of species. Eur J Cancer 2024; 201:113910. [PMID: 38382152 DOI: 10.1016/j.ejca.2024.113910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/05/2024] [Revised: 01/30/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Affiliation(s)
- Patrizio Giacomini
- Clinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, IRCSS Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, Rome, Italy.
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Senol YC, Orscelik A, Bilgin C, Kobeissi H, Ghozy S, Arul S, Kallmes DF, Kadirvel R. Safety and efficacy profile of off-label use of the Pipeline Embolization Device: A systematic review and meta-analysis. J Stroke Cerebrovasc Dis 2024; 33:107586. [PMID: 38242183 PMCID: PMC10939757 DOI: 10.1016/j.jstrokecerebrovasdis.2024.107586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/08/2024] [Accepted: 01/16/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The off-label utilization of the Pipeline Embolization Device (PED) is a common practice in numerous medical centers globally. Therefore, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the overall outcomes of this off-label usage of PEDs. METHODS PubMed, Web of Science, Ovid Medline, Ovid Embase, and Scopus were searched up to February 2023 using the Nested Knowledge platform to identify studies assessing the off-label use of PEDs. Any use of PED outside of the FDA-approved indication granted in 2018 is considered off-label use. Overall angiographic occlusion rates, ischemic and hemorrhagic complications, mortality, retreatment rates, and favorable clinic outcomes were included. Statistical analyses were performed to compare the overall outcome rates of anterior cerebral artery(ACA) vs. middle cerebral artery(MCA) and anterior vs posterior circulation subgroups. RESULTS We included 26 studies involving a total of 1,408 patients. The overall rate of complete occlusion was 80.3 % (95 % CI= 76.0-84.1). Subgroup analysis demonstrated a statistically significant difference in the rate of complete occlusion between anterior circulation (78.9 %) and posterior circulation (69.2 %) (p value=0.02). The rate of good clinical outcomes was 92.8 % (95 % CI= 88.8-95.4). The mortality rate was 1.4 % (95 % CI= 0.5-2.7). The overall rate of ischemic complications was 9.5 % (95 % CI= 7.7-11.6), with a comparable difference between anterior circulation (7.7 %) and posterior circulation (12.8 %) (p value=0.07). There was no statistically significant difference in MCA vs ACA subgroups in all parameters. CONCLUSIONS Off-label use of PEDs can be a safe and effective treatment option for intracranial aneurysms. However, there is a need for more prospective, high-quality, non-industry-funded registry studies and randomized trials to test the efficacy and safety of off-label usage of PEDs and to expand its indications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yigit Can Senol
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA.
| | - Atakan Orscelik
- Department of Neurosurgery, Medical University of South Carolina, SC, USA
| | - Cem Bilgin
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Sherief Ghozy
- Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - Santhosh Arul
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | | | - Ramanathan Kadirvel
- Department of Neurologic Surgery, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA; Department of Radiology, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
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Aubin HJ. Repurposing drugs for treatment of alcohol use disorder. Int Rev Neurobiol 2024; 175:153-185. [PMID: 38555115 DOI: 10.1016/bs.irn.2024.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Repurposing drugs for the treatment of alcohol dependence involves the use of drugs that were initially developed for other conditions, but have shown promise in reducing alcohol use or preventing relapse. This approach can offer a more cost-effective and time-efficient alternative to developing new drugs from scratch. Currently approved medications for alcohol use disorder (AUD) include acamprosate, disulfiram, naltrexone, nalmefene, baclofen, and sodium oxybate. Acamprosate was developed specifically for AUD, while disulfiram's alcohol-deterrent effects were discovered incidentally. Naltrexone and nalmefene were originally approved for opioids but found secondary applications in AUD. Baclofen and sodium oxybate were repurposed from neurological conditions. Other drugs show promise. Topiramate and zonisamide, anticonvulsants, demonstrate efficacy in reducing alcohol consumption. Another anticonvulsant, gabapentin has been disappointing overall, except in cases involving alcohol withdrawal symptoms. Varenicline, a nicotinic receptor agonist, benefits individuals with less severe AUD or concurrent nicotine use. Ondansetron, a 5-HT3 antagonist, has potential for early-onset AUD, especially when combined with naltrexone. Antipsychotic drugs like aripiprazole and quetiapine have limited efficacy. Further investigation is needed for potential repurposing of α1 adrenergic receptor antagonists prazosin and doxazosin, glucocorticoid receptor antagonist mifepristone, the phosphodiesterase inhibitor Ibudilast, the cysteine prodrug N-acetylcysteine, and the OX1R and OX2R blocker Suvorexant. This review supports repurposing drugs as an effective strategy for expanding treatment options for AUD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henri-Jean Aubin
- Université Paris-Saclay, Inserm, CESP, Villejuif, France; AP-HP, Université Paris Saclay, Villejuif, France.
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Mansilla-Polo M, Gimeno E, Morgado-Carrasco D. Topical and Oral Roflumilast in Dermatology: A Narrative Review. Actas Dermosifiliogr 2024; 115:265-279. [PMID: 37709133 DOI: 10.1016/j.ad.2023.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023] Open
Abstract
Oral roflumilast is a phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor approved for the prevention of exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and chronic bronchitis. In dermatology, topical roflumilast is authorized by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of plaque psoriasis and mild to moderate seborrheic dermatitis. Several studies have described the off-label use of roflumilast in dermatology, including a randomized controlled trial showing its usefulness in the treatment of psoriasis; case reports and small series have also reported successful outcomes in hidradenitis suppurativa, recurrent oral aphthosis, nummular eczema, lichen planus, and Behçet disease. Roflumilast has a favorable safety profile, similar to that of apremilast, and it is considerably cheaper than new generation drugs and even some conventional immunosuppressants. We review the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of topical and oral roflumilast and discuss potential adverse effects and both approved and off-label uses in dermatology. Roflumilast is a promising agent to consider.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mansilla-Polo
- Servicio de Dermatología, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, España; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, España
| | - E Gimeno
- Servicio de Dermatología, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - D Morgado-Carrasco
- Servicio de Dermatología, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, España; Servicio de Dermatología, Hospital de Figueres, Fundació Salut Empordà, Figueres, Girona, España.
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Mansilla-Polo M, Gimeno E, Morgado-Carrasco D. [Translated aticle] Topical and Oral Roflumilast in Dermatology: A Narrative Review. Actas Dermosifiliogr 2024; 115:T265-T279. [PMID: 38224734 DOI: 10.1016/j.ad.2024.01.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/22/2023] [Accepted: 09/04/2023] [Indexed: 01/17/2024] Open
Abstract
Oral roflumilast is a phosphodiesterase-4 inhibitor approved for the prevention of exacerbations of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and chronic bronchitis. In dermatology, topical roflumilast is authorized by the US Food and Drug Administration for the treatment of plaque psoriasis and mild to moderate seborrheic dermatitis. Several studies have described the off-label use of roflumilast in dermatology, including a randomized controlled trial showing its usefulness in the treatment of psoriasis; case reports and small series have also reported successful outcomes in hidradenitis suppurativa, recurrent oral aphthosis, nummular eczema, lichen planus, and Behçet disease. Roflumilast has a favorable safety profile, similar to that of apremilast, and it is considerably cheaper than new generation drugs and even some conventional immunosuppressants. We review the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of topical and oral roflumilast and discuss potential adverse effects and both approved and off-label uses in dermatology. Roflumilast is a promising agent to consider.
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Affiliation(s)
- M Mansilla-Polo
- Servicio de Dermatología, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe, Valencia, Spain; Instituto de Investigación Sanitaria La Fe (IIS La Fe), Valencia, Spain
| | - E Gimeno
- Servicio de Dermatología, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | - D Morgado-Carrasco
- Servicio de Dermatología, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain; Servicio de Dermatología, Hospital de Figueres, Fundació Salut Empordà, Figueres, Girona, Spain.
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Esposito S, Pagliano P, De Simone G, Guarino A, Pan A, Brambilla P, Mastroianni C, Lichtner M, Brugnaro P, Carretta A, Santantonio T, Brindicci G, Carrega G, Montagnani F, Lapadula G, Spolti A, Luzzati R, Schiaroli E, Scaglione V, Pallotto C, Tacconi D, Quintieri F, Trecarichi E. In-label, off-label prescription, efficacy and tolerability of dalbavancin: report from a National Registry. Infection 2024:10.1007/s15010-024-02176-2. [PMID: 38324144 DOI: 10.1007/s15010-024-02176-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/08/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Although dalbavancin is currently approved for the treatment of ABSSIs, several studies suggest its efficacy and tolerance as long-term therapy for other off-label indications requiring prolonged intravenous antibiotic administration. METHODS We conducted a prospective nationwide study of dalbavancin use in real-life settings for both approved and off-label indications analysing for each case the clinical and microbiological characteristics of infection the efficacy and safety of treatments. RESULTS During the study period (from December 2018 to July 2021), the ID specialists from 14 different centres enrolled 223 patients treated with dalbavancin [141 males (63%) and 82 females (37%); male/female ratio 1.72; mean age 59 (SD 17.2) years, (range 15-96). Most patients in the study population (136/223; 61.0%) came from community rather than health care facilities and most of them were visited in Infectious Diseases wards (93/223; 41.7%) and clinics (55/223; 24.7%) even though some patients were cured in other settings, such as surgery wards (18/223; 8.1%), orthopaedic wards (11/223; 4.9%), Emergency Rooms (7/223; 3.1%) and non-surgical other than ID wards (6/223; 2.7%). The most common ID diagnoses were osteomyelitis (44 cases/223; 19.7%; of which 29 acute and 15 chronic osteomyelitis), cellulitis (28/223; 12.5%), cutaneous abscess (23/223; 10.3%), orthopaedic prosthesis-associated infection (22/223; 9.9%), surgical site infection (20/223; 9.0%) and septic arthritis (15/223; 6.7%). CONCLUSION In conclusion, by virtue of its PK/PD properties, dalbavancin represents a valuable option to daily in-hospital intravenous or outpatient antimicrobial regimens also for off-label indications requiring a long-term treatment of Gram-positive infections.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvano Esposito
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy.
| | - Pasquale Pagliano
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Giuseppe De Simone
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Salerno, Salerno, Italy
| | - Amedeo Guarino
- Department of Public Health, University of Naples Federico II, Naples, Italy
| | - Angelo Pan
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituti Ospitalieri of Cremona, Cremona, Italy
| | - Paola Brambilla
- Department of Infectious Diseases, Istituti Ospitalieri of Cremona, Cremona, Italy
| | - Claudio Mastroianni
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University, Rome, Italy
| | - Miriam Lichtner
- Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, Sapienza University, Latina, Italy
| | - Pierluigi Brugnaro
- Infectious Diseases Department, Ospedale Civile "SS. Giovanni E Paolo", Venice, Italy
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital "Ospedali Riuniti" of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Anna Carretta
- Infectious Diseases Department, Ospedale Civile "SS. Giovanni E Paolo", Venice, Italy
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital "Ospedali Riuniti" of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | - Teresa Santantonio
- Infectious Diseases Department, Ospedale Civile "SS. Giovanni E Paolo", Venice, Italy
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University Hospital "Ospedali Riuniti" of Foggia, Foggia, Italy
| | | | - Giuliana Carrega
- Infectious Diseases Unit, Santa Maria Della Misericordia Hospital, Albenga, Savona, Italy
| | | | | | - Anna Spolti
- Infectious Diseases Unit, San Gerardo Hospital, Monza, Italy
| | | | | | - Vittoria Scaglione
- Department of Infectious Diseases, University of Perugia, Perugia, Italy
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Salari P, Larijani B, Zahedi F, Noroozi M. Off-label prescription: developing a guideline and validating an instrument to measure physicians' and clinical pharmacists' knowledge and attitudes toward off-label medication use. J Diabetes Metab Disord 2023; 22:1599-1608. [PMID: 37975085 PMCID: PMC10638311 DOI: 10.1007/s40200-023-01288-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2023] [Accepted: 08/19/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Purpose Off-label medications have been challenging in healthcare systems, and their significance is emphasized throughout pandemics. The study was designed to develop an ethics guideline for prescribing off-label medications and also aimed to develop a valid instrument for evaluating physicians' and clinical pharmacists' knowledge and attitudes regarding off-label medication use. Methods In 2021, the two-phase study was done. A gap analysis study and a review of relevant guidelines and peer-reviewed papers were conducted in the first phase. There were three hybrid expert panel discussions with nine specialists until a consensus was reached. In the second phase, a questionnaire was developed to assess physicians' and pharmacists' knowledge and attitudes toward off-label prescribing medications. An expert panel of nine ethicists, physicians, and pharmacists determined the face and content validity. To evaluate the reliability and construct validity of the instrument, 201 physicians and clinical pharmacists participated. Results This guideline provides 24 recommendations classified into seven themes to assist clinicians, pharmacists, and policymakers in managing off-label medication use. The preliminary questionnaire contained 72 items. Items were removed if their I-CVI and CVR were less than 0.79 and 0.78, respectively. The S-CVI/Average ratio was 0.937. The Cronbach α was 0.848. Ten factors were identified through exploratory factor analysis. These ten factors comprised 64.652% of the variance. There was no significant difference between general physicians, specialist physicians, and clinical pharmacists in one-way ANOVA [F = 0.584, P = 0.559]. Conclusion We developed an ethical guideline for off-label medication use that can integrate ethical principles into related practice. Moreover, our valid and reliable questionnaire can evaluate the ethical adherence of physicians and pharmacists to scientific and ethical challenges of off-label medications in the country, especially during pandemics. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1007/s40200-023-01288-0.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pooneh Salari
- Present Address: Medical Ethics and History of Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Bagher Larijani
- Present Address: Medical Ethics and History of Medicine Research Center, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Farzaneh Zahedi
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Endocrinology and Metabolism Clinical Sciences Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Mahshad Noroozi
- Department of Medical Ethics, School of Medicine, Iran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
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Donà D, Minotti C, Masini T, Penazzato M, Van Der Zalm MM, Judd A, Giaquinto C, Lallemant M. COVID-19 and MIS-C treatment in children-results from an international survey. Eur J Pediatr 2023; 182:5087-5093. [PMID: 37672062 PMCID: PMC10640428 DOI: 10.1007/s00431-023-05179-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 08/23/2023] [Accepted: 08/24/2023] [Indexed: 09/07/2023]
Abstract
Children have been mostly excluded from COVID-19 clinical trials, and, as a result, most medicines approved for COVID-19 have no pediatric indication. In addition, access to COVID-19 therapeutics remains limited. Collecting physicians' experiences with off-label use of therapeutics is important to inform global prioritization processes and better target pediatric research and development. A standardized questionnaire was designed to explore the use of therapeutics used to treat COVID-19 and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C) in pediatric patients globally. Seventy-three physicians from 29 countries participated. For COVID-19, steroids were used by 75.6% of respondents; remdesivir and monoclonal antibodies were prescribed by 48.6% and 27.1% of respondents, respectively. For MIS-C, steroids were prescribed by 79.1% of respondents and intravenous immunoglobulins by 69.6%. The use of these products depended on their pediatric approval and the limited availability of antivirals and most monoclonal antibodies in Africa, South America, Southeast Asia, and Eastern Europe. Off-label prescription resulted widespread due to the paucity of clinical trials in young children at the time of the survey; though, based on our survey results, it was generally safe and led to clinical benefits. Conclusion: This survey provides a snapshot of current practice for treating pediatric COVID-19 worldwide, informing global prioritization efforts to better target pediatric research and development for COVID-19 therapeutics. Off-label use of such medicines is widespread for the paucity of clinical trials under 12 years and 40 kg, though appears to be safe and generally results in clinical benefits, even in young children. However, access to care, including medicine availability, differs widely globally. Clinical development of COVID-19 antivirals and monoclonal antibodies requires acceleration to ensure pediatric indication and allow worldwide availability of therapeutics that will enable more equitable access to COVID-19 treatment. What is Known: • Children have been mostly excluded from COVID-19 clinical trials, and, as a result, most medicines approved for COVID-19 have no pediatric indication. • Access to care differs widely globally, so because of the diversity of national healthcare systems; the unequal availability of medicines for COVID-19 treatment represents an obstacle to the pediatric population's universal right to health care. What is New: • Off-label COVID-19 drug prescription is widespread due to the lack of clinical trials in children younger than 12 years and weighing less than 40 kg, but relatively safe and generally leading to clinical benefit. • The application of the GAP-f framework to COVID-19 medicines is crucial, ensuring widespread access to all safe and effective drugs, enabling the rapid development of age-appropriate formulations, and developing specific access plans (including stability, storage, packaging, and labeling) for distribution in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). Antivirals and monoclonal antibodies may benefit from the acceleration to reach widespread and equal diffusion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniele Donà
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Padova University - Hospital, Padova, Italy
| | - Chiara Minotti
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy.
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Padova University - Hospital, Padova, Italy.
| | - Tiziana Masini
- WHO Research for Health Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Martina Penazzato
- WHO Research for Health Department, World Health Organization, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Marieke M Van Der Zalm
- Desmond Tutu TB Centre, Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Stellenbosch University, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Ali Judd
- MRC Clinical Trials Unit at UCL, University College London, London, UK
| | - Carlo Giaquinto
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
- Division of Pediatric Infectious Diseases, Department of Women's and Children's Health, Padova University - Hospital, Padova, Italy
| | - Marc Lallemant
- Faculty of Associated Medical Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Chiang Mai, Thailand
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Giacomini P, Valenti F, Allegretti M, Pallocca M, De Nicola F, Ciuffreda L, Fanciulli M, Scalera S, Buglioni S, Melucci E, Casini B, Carosi M, Pescarmona E, Giordani E, Sperati F, Jannitti N, Betti M, Maugeri-Saccà M, Cecere FL, Villani V, Pace A, Appetecchia M, Vici P, Savarese A, Krasniqi E, Ferraresi V, Russillo M, Fabi A, Landi L, Minuti G, Cappuzzo F, Zeuli M, Ciliberto G. The Molecular Tumor Board of the Regina Elena National Cancer Institute: from accrual to treatment in real-world. J Transl Med 2023; 21:725. [PMID: 37845764 PMCID: PMC10577953 DOI: 10.1186/s12967-023-04595-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 10/05/2023] [Indexed: 10/18/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Molecular Tumor Boards (MTB) operating in real-world have generated limited consensus on good practices for accrual, actionable alteration mapping, and outcome metrics. These topics are addressed herein in 124 MTB patients, all real-world accrued at progression, and lacking approved therapy options. METHODS Actionable genomic alterations identified by tumor DNA (tDNA) and circulating tumor DNA (ctDNA) profiling were mapped by customized OncoKB criteria to reflect diagnostic/therapeutic indications as approved in Europe. Alterations were considered non-SoC when mapped at either OncoKB level 3, regardless of tDNA/ctDNA origin, or at OncoKB levels 1/2, provided they were undetectable in matched tDNA, and had not been exploited in previous therapy lines. RESULTS Altogether, actionable alterations were detected in 54/124 (43.5%) MTB patients, but only in 39 cases (31%) were these alterations (25 from tDNA, 14 from ctDNA) actionable/unexploited, e.g. they had not resulted in the assignment of pre-MTB treatments. Interestingly, actionable and actionable/unexploited alterations both decreased (37.5% and 22.7% respectively) in a subset of 88 MTB patients profiled by tDNA-only, but increased considerably (77.7% and 66.7%) in 18 distinct patients undergoing combined tDNA/ctDNA testing, approaching the potential treatment opportunities (76.9%) in 147 treatment-naïve patients undergoing routine tDNA profiling for the first time. Non-SoC therapy was MTB-recommended to all 39 patients with actionable/unexploited alterations, but only 22 (56%) accessed the applicable drug, mainly due to clinical deterioration, lengthy drug-gathering procedures, and geographical distance from recruiting clinical trials. Partial response and stable disease were recorded in 8 and 7 of 19 evaluable patients, respectively. The time to progression (TTP) ratio (MTB-recommended treatment vs last pre-MTB treatment) exceeded the conventional Von Hoff 1.3 cut-off in 9/19 cases, high absolute TTP and Von Hoff values coinciding in 3 cases. Retrospectively, 8 patients receiving post-MTB treatment(s) as per physician's choice were noted to have a much longer overall survival from MTB accrual than 11 patients who had received no further treatment (35.09 vs 6.67 months, p = 0.006). CONCLUSIONS MTB-recommended/non-SoC treatments are effective, including those assigned by ctDNA-only alterations. However, real-world MTBs may inadvertently recruit patients electively susceptible to diverse and/or multiple treatments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Patrizio Giacomini
- Clinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy.
| | - Fabio Valenti
- UOC Translational Oncology Research, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Allegretti
- UOC Translational Oncology Research, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Pallocca
- Clinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca De Nicola
- SAFU, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics, and Technological Innovation, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Ludovica Ciuffreda
- SAFU, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics, and Technological Innovation, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Maurizio Fanciulli
- SAFU, Department of Research, Advanced Diagnostics, and Technological Innovation, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Stefano Scalera
- Clinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Simonetta Buglioni
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Elisa Melucci
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Beatrice Casini
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Mariantonia Carosi
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Edoardo Pescarmona
- Department of Pathology, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Elena Giordani
- UOC Translational Oncology Research, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Francesca Sperati
- Clinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, San Gallicano Dermatological Institute IRCCS, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Nicoletta Jannitti
- Pharmacy Unit, Medical Direction, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute and San Gallicano Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Martina Betti
- Clinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Marcello Maugeri-Saccà
- Clinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
- Medical Oncology 2, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Veronica Villani
- Neuro-Oncology Unit, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Andrea Pace
- Neuro-Oncology Unit, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Marialuisa Appetecchia
- Oncological Endocrinology Unit, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Patrizia Vici
- Phase IV Studies, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Antonella Savarese
- Medical Oncology 1, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Eriseld Krasniqi
- Phase IV Studies, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Virginia Ferraresi
- Sarcomas and Rare Tumors Departmental Unit, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Michelangelo Russillo
- Sarcomas and Rare Tumors Departmental Unit, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Fabi
- Precision Medicine Unit in Senology, Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCCS, 00168, Rome, Italy
| | - Lorenza Landi
- Clinical Trial Center: Phase 1 and Precision Medicine, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Gabriele Minuti
- Clinical Trial Center: Phase 1 and Precision Medicine, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Federico Cappuzzo
- Medical Oncology 2, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Massimo Zeuli
- Clinical Trial Center, Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
- Medical Oncology 1, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
| | - Gennaro Ciliberto
- Scientific Direction, IRCCS-Regina Elena National Cancer Institute, 00144, Rome, Italy
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Corbella-Bagot L, Riquelme-McLoughlin C, Morgado-Carrasco D. Long-Term Safety Profile and Off-Label Use of JAK Inhibitors in Dermatological Disorders. Actas Dermosifiliogr 2023; 114:T784-T801. [PMID: 37543140 DOI: 10.1016/j.ad.2023.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023] Open
Abstract
JAK inhibitors target specific inflammatory cytokines involved in various inflammatory diseases. Four molecules have been approved for dermatological use: upadacitinib, baricitinib, abrocitinib and topical ruxolitinib. Off-label prescriptions for other dermatological conditions have been reported. We conducted a narrative review of the literature to assess the long-term safety profile of currently approved JAK inhibitors in dermatology, and their off-label use in skin disorders. We performed literature searches with PubMed and Google Scholar from January 2000 to January 2023, using the keywords "Janus kinase inhibitors", "JAK inhibitors","off-label", "dermatology", "safety", "adverse events", "ruxolitinib", "upadacitinib","abrocitinib" and "baricitinib". Our search yielded a total of 37 dermatological disorders with studies supporting the use of these JAK inhibitors. Preliminary studies indicate that JAK inhibitors generally have a favorable safety profile and can be considered as an option in many dermatological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Corbella-Bagot
- Departamento de Dermatología, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - C Riquelme-McLoughlin
- Departamento de Dermatología, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, España
| | - D Morgado-Carrasco
- Departamento de Dermatología, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Barcelona, España; Departamento de Dermatología, Hospital de Figueres, Fundació Salut Empordà, Figueres, España.
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12
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Corbella-Bagot L, Riquelme-McLoughlin C, Morgado-Carrasco D. Long-Term Safety Profile and Off-Label Use of JAK Inhibitors in Dermatological Disorders. Actas Dermosifiliogr 2023; 114:784-801. [PMID: 37331618 DOI: 10.1016/j.ad.2023.06.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/07/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 06/12/2023] [Indexed: 06/20/2023] Open
Abstract
JAK inhibitors target specific inflammatory cytokines involved in various inflammatory diseases. Four molecules have been approved for dermatological use: upadacitinib, baricitinib, abrocitinib and topical ruxolitinib. Off-label prescriptions for other dermatological conditions have been reported. We conducted a narrative review of the literature to assess the long-term safety profile of currently approved JAK inhibitors in dermatology, and their off-label use in skin disorders. We performed literature searches with Pubmed and Google Scholar from January 2000 to January 2023, using the keywords "Janus kinase inhibitors", "JAK inhibitors", "off-label", "dermatology", "safety", "adverse events", "ruxolitinib", "upadacitinib", "abrocitinib" and "baricitinib". Our search yielded a total of 37 dermatological disorders with studies supporting the use of these JAK inhibitors. Preliminary studies indicate that JAK inhibitors generally have a favorable safety profile and can be considered as an option in many dermatological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Corbella-Bagot
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - C Riquelme-McLoughlin
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain
| | - D Morgado-Carrasco
- Department of Dermatology, Hospital Clínic de Barcelona, Universitat de Barcelona, Spain; Department of Dermatology, Hospital de Figueres, Fundació Salut Empordà, Figueres, Spain.
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Courjon J, Senneville E, Illes HG, Pavese P, Boutoille D, Daoud FC, Dunkel N, Tattevin P. Effectiveness and safety of dalbavancin in France: a prospective, multicentre cohort study. Int J Antimicrob Agents 2023; 62:106945. [PMID: 37543122 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijantimicag.2023.106945] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 08/01/2023] [Indexed: 08/07/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVES Dalbavancin is a lipoglycopeptide antibiotic approved for the treatment of acute bacterial skin and skin structure infections. However, several studies have suggested that it is used mostly for off-label indications. We aimed to describe the use of dalbavancin in patients who received at least one dose of the antibiotic in France. METHODS Prospective, observational, multicentre study conducted in France from September 2018 to April 2020. The primary outcome was the clinical response at 30 days after the last dalbavancin dose. RESULTS A total of 151 patients in 16 centres were included in this study. The main infection sites were bone and joint infections (55.0%), multisite infections (15.9%), and vascular infections (14.6%), and the primary pathogens were coagulase-negative staphylococci (N = 82), Staphylococcus aureus (N = 51), and enterococci (N = 27). Most patients (71.5%) received three previous antibiotic treatments. The number of dalbavancin injections per patient was 1 in 26 patients (17.2%), 2 in 95 patients (62.9%), 3 in 17 patients (11.3%), and more than 3 in 13 patients (8.6%), with a mean cumulative dose of 3089 ± 1461 mg per patient. Among the 129 patients with a complete follow-up, clinical success was achieved in 119 patients (92.2%). At least 1 adverse event was reported in 67 patients (44.4%), including 12 (7.9%) patients with dalbavancin-related adverse events. CONCLUSIONS The results of the study showed that dalbavancin is used mostly for off-label indications and in heavily pretreated patients in France. The clinical response at 30 days after the last dose was favourable in most patients, with a good safety profile.
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Affiliation(s)
- Johan Courjon
- Université Côte d'Azur, CHU Nice, Nice, France, Infectious Disease Unit, Nice, France.
| | - Eric Senneville
- Infectious Diseases Department, Gustave Dron Hospital, Tourcoing, France
| | | | - Patricia Pavese
- Infectious Diseases Department, Grenoble Alpes University Hospital, La Tronche, France
| | - David Boutoille
- Department of Infectious Disease and CIC-UIC 1413 INSERM, Nantes University Hospital, Nantes, France
| | | | | | - Pierre Tattevin
- Infectious Diseases and Intensive Care Unit, Pontchaillou University Hospital, Rennes, France
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Dumusc A, Alromaih F, Perreau M, Hügle T, Zufferey P, Dan D. Real-life drug retention rate and safety of rituximab when treating rheumatic diseases: a single-centre Swiss retrospective cohort study. Arthritis Res Ther 2023; 25:91. [PMID: 37264414 DOI: 10.1186/s13075-023-03076-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2022] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/03/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND In Switzerland, rituximab (RTX) is licenced for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and ANCA-associated vasculitis (AAV) but is frequently used off-label to treat other auto-immune diseases (AID), especially connective tissue diseases (CTD). We aimed to characterise the use of RTX in AID in a real-life Swiss setting and compare RTX retention rates and safety outcomes between patients treated for RA, CTD and AAV. METHODS A retrospective cohort study of patients who started RTX in the Rheumatology Department for RA or AID. The RTX retention rate was analysed using Kaplan-Meier survival curves. Occurrences of serious adverse events (SAE), low IgG levels and anti-drug antibodies (ADA) were reported. RESULTS Two hundred three patients were treated with RTX: 51.7% had RA, 29.6% CTD, 9.9% vasculitis and 8.9% other AIDs. The total observation time was 665 patient-years. RTX retention probability at 2 years (95%CI) was similar for RA and CTD 0.65 (0.55 to 0.73), 0.60 (0.47 to 0.72) and lower for vasculitis 0.25 (0.09 to 0.45). Survival curves for RTX retention matched closely (p = 0.97) between RA and CTD patients but were lower for patients with vasculitis due to a higher percentage of induced remission. Patients with vasculitis (95%) and CTD (75%) had a higher rate of concomitant glucocorticoid use than RA (60%). Moderate to severe hypogammaglobulinaemia was observed more frequently in patients with vasculitis (35%) than with RA (13%) or CTD (9%) and was associated with an increased risk of presenting a first infectious SAE (HR 2.01, 95% CI 1.04 to 3.91). The incidence rate of SAE was 23.3 SAE/100 patient-years (36% were infectious). When searched, ADAs were observed in 18% of the patients and were detected in 63% of infusions-related SAE. 10 patients died during RTX treatment and up to 12 months after the last RTX infusion, 50% from infection. CONCLUSION RTX retention rates are similar for patients with RA and CTD but lower for those with vasculitis due to more frequent remission. Patients treated with RTX for vasculitis present more SAE and infectious SAE than patients with RA and CTD, potentially due to a higher use of concomitant glucocorticoids and the occurrence of hypogammaglobulinaemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandre Dumusc
- Department of Rheumatology, Lausanne University Hospital, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland.
| | - Fahad Alromaih
- Department of Rheumatology, Lausanne University Hospital, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Matthieu Perreau
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Division of Immunology and Allergy, Lausanne University Hospital, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Thomas Hügle
- Department of Rheumatology, Lausanne University Hospital, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Pascal Zufferey
- Department of Rheumatology, Lausanne University Hospital, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Diana Dan
- Department of Rheumatology, Lausanne University Hospital, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Faculty of Biology and Medicine, University of Lausanne, 1005, Lausanne, Switzerland
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Tarantola A, Otto MH, Armeni P, Costa F, Malandrini F, Jommi C. Early access programs for medicines: comparative analysis among France, Italy, Spain, and UK and focus on the Italian case. J Pharm Policy Pract 2023; 16:67. [PMID: 37198599 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-023-00570-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2023] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 05/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Early access programs (EAPs) generally refer to patient access to medicines/indications before marketing authorization, possibly extended to price and reimbursement approval. These programs include compassionate use, which is usually covered by pharmaceutical companies, and EAPs reimbursed by third-party payers. This paper aims at comparing EAPs in four European countries (France, Italy, Spain, UK) and providing empirical evidence on EAPs in Italy. The comparative analysis was conducted through a literature review (including scientific and grey literature), complemented by 30-min semi-structured interviews with local experts. The Italian empirical analysis employed data available on the National Medicines Agency website. Although EAPs are very different across countries, they exhibit some common features: (i) eligibility criteria refer to the absence of valid therapeutic alternatives and a presumed favourable risk-benefit profile; (ii) payers do not allocate a pre-determined budget to these programs; (iii) total spending on EAPs is unknown. The French EAPs seem to be the most structured, financed through social insurance, covering pre-marketing, post-marketing and pre-reimbursement phases and providing for data collection. Italy's approach to EAPs has been varied, with several programs covered by different payers, including the cohort-based 648 List (for both early access and off-label use), the nominal-based 5% Fund, and Compassionate Use. Most applications to EAPs are from the Antineoplastic and immunomodulating drug class (ATC L). Some 62% of indications in the 648 List are either not under clinical development or have never been approved (pure off-label use). For those subsequently approved, most approved indications coincide with those covered through EAPs. Only the 5% Fund provides data on economic impact (€ 81.2 million in 2021; average cost per patient € 61.5K). Diverse EAPs are a possible source of inequalities in access to medicines across Europe. A harmonization of these programs, though difficult to achieve, could be modelled on the French EAPs and provide key advantages, not least of which a common effort to collect real-world data in parallel with clinical trials and clear separation between EAPs and off-label use programs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alice Tarantola
- SDA Bocconi School of Management, Centre for Research on Health and Social Care Management (CERGAS), Milan, Italy.
| | - Monica Hildegard Otto
- SDA Bocconi School of Management, Centre for Research on Health and Social Care Management (CERGAS), Milan, Italy
- Department of Social and Political Science, Bocconi University, Milan, Italy
| | - Patrizio Armeni
- SDA Bocconi School of Management, Centre for Research on Health and Social Care Management (CERGAS), Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Costa
- SDA Bocconi School of Management, Centre for Research on Health and Social Care Management (CERGAS), Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Malandrini
- SDA Bocconi School of Management, Centre for Research on Health and Social Care Management (CERGAS), Milan, Italy
| | - Claudio Jommi
- Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Università del Piemonte Orientale, Largo Guido Donegani, 2, 28100, Novara, Italy
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Kandemir EA, Karaomerlioglu I, Yaradilmis IM. Off-label use of immune checkpoint inhibitors for the treatment of solid tumors: analysis of a nationwide patient sample. J Cancer Res Clin Oncol 2023:10.1007/s00432-023-04803-1. [PMID: 37115271 DOI: 10.1007/s00432-023-04803-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/17/2023] [Accepted: 04/18/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
PURPOSE Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have become an indispensable part of clinical practice; however, off-label use of these agents is unknown. We aimed to define the patterns of off-label use of ICIs in a nationwide sample of patients. METHODS The online database (Reçetem) was retrospectively searched for off-label use cases related to ICIs approved during a 6-month period. Adult patients with metastatic solid tumors were included. Ethics approval was obtained. Reasons for off-label use were recorded in eight categories and cases were assessed for adherence to current guidelines. Statistical analysis was performed with GNU PSPP version 1.5.3. RESULTS Five hundred seventy-seven reasons for use were recorded for 538 cases related to 527 patients (67.5% male). Non-small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) (35.9%) was the most common cancer type. Nivolumab (49%), pembrolizumab (25.5%), and atezolizumab (25%) were commonly used. The top reason for off-label use was lack of approval for the cancer type (37.1%), followed by use beyond the approved treatment line (21%). Nivolumab was more frequently used than atezolizumab and/or pembrolizumab in patients with malignant melanoma, kidney cancer, head and neck cancer, and hepatocellular carcinoma (Chi-square goodness-of-fit test, p < 0.001). The guideline adherence rate was 60.5%. CONCLUSION Off-label use of ICIs was primarily related to (NSCLC), and most patients were treatment-naïve in contrast to the acceptance that off-label use results from exhausted treatment options. Lack of approval is a significant reason for the off-label use of ICIs.
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O'Donovan A, Duncan JC, Li KY, Del-Nevo L, Gill A, Peak M, Alhnan MA. The Use of Special-Order Products in England between 2012-2020: An Insight into The Need for Point-of-Care Manufacturing. Int J Pharm 2023; 637:122801. [PMID: 36878418 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijpharm.2023.122801] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Revised: 02/28/2023] [Accepted: 03/01/2023] [Indexed: 03/07/2023]
Abstract
Point-of-care manufacturing such as 3D printing has recently received significant attention from regulatory bodies and the pharmaceutical industry. However, little information is available on the quantity of the most prescribed patient-specific items, their dosage form, and why they were required to be dispensed. In England, 'Specials' are unlicensed medicines formulated to meet the requirements of a specific prescription, prescribed if no suitable licensed alternative exists. This work aims to quantify and examine trends in the prescribing of 'Specials' in England during 2012-2020, using the NHS Business Services Authority (NHSBSA) database. Quarterly prescription data from NHSBSA for the top 500 'Specials' by quantity from 2012-2020 were compiled yearly. The changes in net ingredient cost, the number of items, British National Formulary (BNF) drug category, dosage form, and a potential reason for requiring a 'Special' were identified. In addition, the cost-per-unit was calculated for each category. The total spending on 'Specials' decreased by 62% from £109.2M in 2012 to £41.4M in 2020, primarily due to a 55.1% reduction in the number of 'Specials' items issued. The most frequently prescribed dosage form type of 'Special' was oral dosage forms (59.6% of all items in 2020) particularly oral liquids. The most common reason for prescribing a 'Special' was an inappropriate dosage form (74% of all 'Specials' in 2020). The total number of items dropped over the 8 years as commonly prescribed 'Specials' such as melatonin and cholecalciferol became licensed. In conclusion, the total spending on 'Specials' dropped from 2012-2020 primarily due to a reduction in the number of 'Specials' items issued and pricing change in the Drug tariff. Based on the current demand for 'special order' products, these findings are instrumental for formulation scientists to identify 'Special' formulations to design the next generation of extemporaneous medicine to be produced at the point of care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna O'Donovan
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kings College, London, SE1 9NH
| | - Jennifer C Duncan
- Paediatric Medicines Research Unit, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L12 2AP
| | - Kuan-Yin Li
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kings College, London, SE1 9NH
| | - Lucy Del-Nevo
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kings College, London, SE1 9NH
| | - Andrea Gill
- Paediatric Medicines Research Unit, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L12 2AP
| | - Matthew Peak
- Paediatric Medicines Research Unit, Alder Hey Children's NHS Foundation Trust, Liverpool, L12 2AP
| | - Mohamed A Alhnan
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Medicine Research, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science, School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, Kings College, London, SE1 9NH.
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Lee KB, Suh CH, Song Y, Kwon B, Kim MH, Yoon JT, Lee DH. Trends of Expanding Indications of Woven EndoBridge Devices for the Treatment of Intracranial Aneurysms: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Clin Neuroradiol 2023; 33:227-235. [PMID: 36036257 DOI: 10.1007/s00062-022-01207-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2022] [Accepted: 07/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Woven EndoBridge (WEB) was introduced for the endovascular therapy of wide-neck intracranial aneurysms. The safety and efficacy have been evaluated through several meta-analyses. However, these reviews did not cover the expanding indications in detail. Therefore, we aimed to show the changing trends for intracranial aneurysm treatment using the WEB device. METHODS A systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted with PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane databases. We searched for studies that reported baseline characteristics of aneurysms and the WEB devices, which had treated more than 20 aneurysms consecutively. The pooled proportions of aneurysm indications and used WEB device types were obtained. To evaluate the changing indications for the treated aneurysm size, including the neck diameter, a trend line and linear regression model was measured. RESULTS A total of 27 cohorts were included encompassing 1831 aneurysms treated with the WEB. A total of 86% were used in the four major locations as on-label indications (middle cerebral artery bifurcation; 34%, anterior communicating artery; 26%, basilar tip; 18%, internal carotid artery terminus; 7%). Among off-label indications, the most common location was the posterior communicating artery (8%), followed by the anterior cerebral artery including the pericallosal artery (6%). The median aneurysm size and neck diameter was 7 mm and 4.6 mm, respectively. The WEB device has been used for the treatment of smaller aneurysms than the initial indication. Also, the proportion for ruptured aneurysm treatment was increased up to 15%. CONCLUSION The mechanical and technical development of the WEB resulted in expanding the indications for the treatment of intracranial aneurysms. The off-label indications accounted for 14% in total and an increasing number of small aneurysms are treated with WEB devices. Moreover, the proportion for ruptured aneurysm treatment was currently increased up to 14% more than in the beginning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ki Baek Lee
- Department of Radiologic Technology, Chungbuk Health & Science University, Cheongju, Korea (Republic of)
| | - Chong Hyun Suh
- Department of Radiology, Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, 05505, Seoul, Korea (Republic of)
| | - Yunsun Song
- Department of Radiology, Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, 05505, Seoul, Korea (Republic of)
| | - Boseong Kwon
- Department of Radiology, Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, 05505, Seoul, Korea (Republic of)
| | - Mi Hyeon Kim
- Department of Radiology, Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, 05505, Seoul, Korea (Republic of)
| | - Jong-Tae Yoon
- Department of Radiology, Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, 05505, Seoul, Korea (Republic of)
| | - Deok Hee Lee
- Department of Radiology, Research Institute of Radiology, Asan Medical Center, University of Ulsan College of Medicine, 88 Olympic-ro 43-gil, Songpa-gu, 05505, Seoul, Korea (Republic of).
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Jaguga F, Kirwa P, Gakinya B, Manji I, Andale T, Kinyanjui D, Kwobah EK, Mwangi F, Werunga K, Kerema J, Kwobah C, Temet E, Songok J, Aruasa WK. Intravenous ketamine for severe alcohol use disorder at Moi Teaching & Referral Hospital, Kenya: a case report. Subst Abuse Treat Prev Policy 2023; 18:11. [PMID: 36803380 PMCID: PMC9936629 DOI: 10.1186/s13011-023-00519-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alcohol use disorder is prevalent globally and in Kenya, and is associated with significant health and socio-economic consequences. Despite this, available pharmacological treatment options are limited. Recent evidence indicates that intravenous (IV) ketamine can be beneficial for the treatment of alcohol use disorder, but is yet to be approved for this indication. Further, little has been done to describe the use of IV ketamine for alcohol use disorder in Africa. The goal of this paper, is to: 1) describe the steps we took to obtain approval and prepare for off-label use of IV ketamine for patients with alcohol use disorder at the second largest hospital in Kenya, and 2) describe the presentation and outcomes of the first patient who received IV ketamine for severe alcohol use disorder at the hospital. CASE PRESENTATION In preparing for the off-label use of ketamine for alcohol use disorder, we brought together a multi-disciplinary team of clinicians including psychiatrists, pharmacists, ethicists, anesthetists, and members of the drug and therapeutics committee, to spearhead the process. The team developed a protocol for administering IV ketamine for alcohol use disorder that took into account ethical and safety issues. The national drug regulatory authority, the Pharmacy and Poison's Board, reviewed and approved the protocol. Our first patient was a 39-year-old African male with severe alcohol use disorder and comorbid tobacco use disorder and bipolar disorder. The patient had attended in-patient treatment for alcohol use disorder six times and each time had relapsed between one to four months after discharge. On two occasions, the patient had relapsed while on optimal doses of oral and implant naltrexone. The patient received IV ketamine infusion at a dose of 0.71 mg/kg. The patient relapsed within one week of receiving IV ketamine while on naltrexone, mood stabilizers, and nicotine replacement therapy. DISCUSSION & CONCLUSIONS This case report describes for the first time the use of IV ketamine for alcohol use disorder in Africa. Findings will be useful in informing future research and in guiding other clinicians interested in administering IV ketamine for patients with alcohol use disorder.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florence Jaguga
- grid.513271.30000 0001 0041 5300Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, PO BOX -30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Philip Kirwa
- grid.513271.30000 0001 0041 5300Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, PO BOX -30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Benson Gakinya
- grid.79730.3a0000 0001 0495 4256School of Medicine, Moi University College of Health Sciences, PO BOX 4606, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Imran Manji
- grid.513271.30000 0001 0041 5300Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, PO BOX -30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Thomas Andale
- grid.513271.30000 0001 0041 5300Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, PO BOX -30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Daniel Kinyanjui
- grid.79730.3a0000 0001 0495 4256School of Medicine, Moi University College of Health Sciences, PO BOX 4606, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Edith Kamaru Kwobah
- grid.513271.30000 0001 0041 5300Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, PO BOX -30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Felicita Mwangi
- grid.499694.f0000 0004 0528 0638Albury Wodonga Health, Kerferd Unit 37/45 corner Dixon and docker streets, Wangaratta, Victoria 3677 Australia
| | - Kituyi Werunga
- grid.79730.3a0000 0001 0495 4256School of Medicine, Moi University College of Health Sciences, PO BOX 4606, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Josephat Kerema
- grid.513271.30000 0001 0041 5300Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, PO BOX -30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Charles Kwobah
- grid.79730.3a0000 0001 0495 4256School of Medicine, Moi University College of Health Sciences, PO BOX 4606, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Eunice Temet
- grid.513271.30000 0001 0041 5300Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, PO BOX -30100, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Julia Songok
- grid.79730.3a0000 0001 0495 4256School of Medicine, Moi University College of Health Sciences, PO BOX 4606, Eldoret, Kenya
| | - Wilson K. Aruasa
- grid.513271.30000 0001 0041 5300Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, PO BOX -30100, Eldoret, Kenya
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20
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Iveli MF, Monti M, Benito ME, Iveli P. Off-label prescriptions in child and adolescent psychiatry. Why, when and how? Vertex 2022; 33:89-97. [PMID: 36626604 DOI: 10.53680/vertex.v33i158.320] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
In the paediatric population, paticulary in the field of child and adolescent psychiatry, off-label indications are the rule rather than the exception. This may occur when a drug is indicated for a pathology, age, route of administration or treatment length other than those described in the product label. Argentina, unlike other countries, has no explicit regulation on off-label prescribing. Therefore, the prescription of a medicine in a manner different from that approved by the National Administration of Medicines, Food and Medical Technology (ANMAT) does not have a regulatory framework regarding the conditions that must be met at the time of treatment. Although off-label use is not prohibited, it carries an additional risk. In order to encourage research in paediatrics, regulatory agencies such as the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and the European Medicines Agency (EMA) have introduced legislative reform. The following paper will review the current framework of the regulatory agencies that are relevant to the paediatric population and
will analyse criteria to guide physicians in the rational use of off-label pharmacotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Florencia Iveli
- Doctora en Medicina, especialista en psiquiatría infantojuvenil. Equipo especializado en psicofarmacología infanto-juvenil y reproductiva (EPSIRE), Argentina.
| | - Mariano Monti
- Abogado, Magister en Derecho Penal. Auxiliar Letrado Relator del Tribunal de Casación Penal de la Provincia de Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - María Eugenia Benito
- Médica, especialista en psiquiatría y psicogerontología. EPSIRE H.I.G.A Prof. Dr. R. Rossi de La Plata, Argentina.
| | - Pablo Iveli
- Médico, especialista en pediatría, Magister en Infectología Pediátrica e Inmunología. Bayer AG, Wuppertal, Alemania.
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21
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Greiwe J, Honsinger R, Hvisdas C, Chu DK, Lang DM, Nicklas R, Apter AJ. Boxed Warnings and Off-Label Use of Allergy Medications: Risks, Benefits, and Shared Decision Making. J Allergy Clin Immunol Pract 2022; 10:3057-3063. [PMID: 36064185 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2022.08.033] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/16/2022] [Revised: 08/26/2022] [Accepted: 08/26/2022] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
The Food and Drug Administration is tasked with evaluating the efficacy and safety of a drug. Despite having a regimented appraisal process in place, safety evidence can emerge during clinical trials as well as from observations and studies conducted after the drug has been on the market, which might require a boxed warning. The boxed warning is the most severe warning that the Food and Drug Administration can give to an approved drug. It is commonly referred to as a Black Box Warning because it is outlined in the package insert by a thick black box to garner the attention of prescribers and patients. There are currently more than 400 medications that have boxed warnings, and the information addressing major risks associated with a particular drug may, appropriately or inappropriately, influence patient and clinician decision making. Health care professionals must use the best evidence and clinical judgment in determining whether to prescribe medications with these warnings. Use of an approved drug at dosages or for indications other than what it was originally licensed for is referred to as "off-label" and is legal, commonplace, and may be evidence-based. All drugs may expose patients to possible harm, so prescribers have an obligation to discuss the best available evidence regarding benefits and harms so that patients can participate in shared decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Greiwe
- Bernstein Allergy Group, Inc, Cincinnati, Ohio; Division of Immunology/Allergy Section, Department of Internal Medicine, The University of Cincinnati College of Medicine, Cincinnati, Ohio.
| | - Richard Honsinger
- Los Alamos Medical Care Clinic Ltd, Los Alamos, NM; Department of Medicine, University of New Mexico School of Medicine, Albuquerque, NM
| | - Christopher Hvisdas
- Department of Pharmacy Penn Presbyterian Medical Center, University of Pennsylvania Health System, Philadelphia, Pa
| | - Derek K Chu
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | - David M Lang
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Respiratory Institute, Cleveland Clinic, Cleveland, Ohio
| | | | - Andrea J Apter
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy, & Critical Care Medicine, Perelman School of Medicine, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, Pa
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22
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Mital R, Gray A, Minta A, Almhana F, Amin S, Hydol-Smith J, Mallela T, Kaffenberger BH. Novel and Off-Label Biologic Use in the Management of Hidradenitis Suppurativa, Pyoderma Gangrenosum, Lichen Planus, and Seborrheic Dermatitis: A Narrative Review. Dermatol Ther (Heidelb) 2022; 13:77-94. [PMID: 36434425 PMCID: PMC9823183 DOI: 10.1007/s13555-022-00860-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/17/2022] [Accepted: 11/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
With advances in drug development and our understanding of the pathophysiology of skin disease, biologic medications have emerged as powerful management tools for dermatologists. While biologics have most often been used in the management of psoriasis, they are being used off-label for the management of a variety of other immune-mediated skin diseases with overlapping molecular targets. This narrative review focuses on the novel and off-label use of biologic medications for the management of hidradenitis suppurativa (HS), pyoderma gangrenosum (PG), lichen planus (LP), and seborrheic dermatitis (SD). Review of the literature revealed that IL-17, IL-23, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) inhibitors were being used across a variety of immune-mediated skin pathologies with variable efficacy, among other targeted biologics. While biologics were generally safe in the treatment of primary immune-mediated skin disorders, paradoxical disease eruptions were noted with biologic use and were theorized to occur owing to immune dysregulation and cytokine imbalance. While numerous case reports show promise for the use of biologics in immune-mediated skin pathologies, the variable efficacy and safety reported warrants more thorough investigations of the role of these targeted medications in comprehensive disease management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rohan Mital
- grid.412332.50000 0001 1545 0811Department of Dermatology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH USA ,grid.261331.40000 0001 2285 7943College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
| | - Ashley Gray
- grid.412332.50000 0001 1545 0811Department of Dermatology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH USA ,grid.261331.40000 0001 2285 7943College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
| | - Abena Minta
- grid.412332.50000 0001 1545 0811Department of Dermatology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH USA ,grid.261331.40000 0001 2285 7943College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
| | - Farah Almhana
- grid.261331.40000 0001 2285 7943College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
| | - Sabrina Amin
- grid.261331.40000 0001 2285 7943College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
| | - Jourdan Hydol-Smith
- grid.264756.40000 0004 4687 2082School of Medicine, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX USA
| | - Teja Mallela
- grid.261331.40000 0001 2285 7943College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH USA
| | - Benjamin H. Kaffenberger
- grid.412332.50000 0001 1545 0811Department of Dermatology, The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, Columbus, OH USA
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23
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Balan S, Koo K, Muhamad Hamdan MD, Lee SV. The use of special approval medicines among pediatric patients in a tertiary care hospital: A reality check. Explor Res Clin Soc Pharm 2022; 8:100188. [PMID: 36281358 PMCID: PMC9587311 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2022.100188] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/19/2022] [Revised: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 10/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Special approval medicines (SAMs) are medicines used with approval from the Director General of Health Malaysia when the therapeutic options within regulatory and formulary boundaries appear unsuitable or ineffective to treat the patients. OBJECTIVES To examine and characterize the use of SAMs among children in a Malaysian tertiary care hospital. METHODS The named-patient basis SAM application forms, cover letter, pharmacist review summary and patient monitoring forms available at the Pharmacy Department between 1st January 2019 and 31st December 2020 were reviewed. Unprocessed, unapproved and stock-basis applications were excluded. The outcome measures were categories, scope, off-label use and cost of SAM. Per-patient data were analyzed descriptively. RESULTS Overall, 1010 patients (mean age of 8.7 ± 5.6 years) were involved in 328 SAMs applications. The most common SAMs pharmacological groups were nervous system (n = 371, 36.7%) and antineoplastic and immunomodulating agents (n = 332, 32.9%). Top three SAMs were melatonin (11.5%), scopolamine (7.6%) and cholecalciferol (7.1%). A total of 837 (82.9%) and 513 (50.8%) patients were involved in the SAMs applications for non-formulary and unregistered medicines, respectively. Unregistered, non-formulary medicines were applied for 47.3% (n = 478) of the patients. The majority of the scope for SAMs (64.7%) were to substitute the available alternatives in the national formulary which were ineffective or sub-optimal for the patients. Among the 262 patients with repeat applications, 93.8% reported disease or symptom improvement while 1.9% experienced side effects. Up to 17% of SAMs analyzed in this study were used for off-label indications. The total cost of the SAMs was RM8,748,358.38 (USD 2,090,418.86). CONCLUSION The use of SAMs among children in this hospital involved unregistered, non-formulary medicines used to substitute the available alternatives in the formulary. A concerted effort is warranted in exploring supplementary mechanisms to enhance the medicine registration process and formulary system towards facilitating enhanced provision of treatment for children.
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24
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Hefner G, Wolff J, Toto S, Reißner P, Klimke A. Off-label use of antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood-stabilizers in psychiatry. J Neural Transm (Vienna) 2022; 129:1353-1365. [PMID: 36070009 DOI: 10.1007/s00702-022-02542-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2022] [Accepted: 08/30/2022] [Indexed: 10/14/2022]
Abstract
Off-label drug prescribing in psychiatry is increasing. Many psychotropic drugs are approved for psychopathologic syndromes rather than based on international standard diagnostic classification systems which might facilitate the clinical decision for off-label prescriptions. The objective of this study was to analyze the prevalence and category of off-label use of psychotropic drugs. The study was conducted in 10 psychiatric hospitals in Germany over a period of 2 years. Prescription data of all patients were retrospectively analyzed after identification of antidepressants, antipsychotics, and mood-stabilizers, which were classified as off-label according to the German prescribing information and diagnostic classification according to ICD-10. In total, 53,909 patient cases (46% female) with a mean age of 46.8 (SD: 18) years were included in the study. 30.2% of the cases received at least one off-label prescription of a psychotropic drug during hospital stay. Off-label prevalence rates differed markedly between different diagnostic groups (ICD-10 F0/G3: 47%, F1: 33%, F2: 25%, F3: 21%, F4: 27%, F6: 46%, F7: 84%). The most often off-label prescribed drugs were quetiapine and mirtazapine for organic mental disorders (F0/G3), valproate and quetiapine in patients with disorders due to psychoactive substance use (F1), valproate in patients with psychotic disorders (F2), and risperidone and olanzapine in patients with affective disorders (F3). The prevalence rate of psychotropic off-label prescriptions is high if restricted to product description and ICD-10 diagnosis. Therefore, current psychiatric guidelines should drug-specifically issue this problem by defining psychiatric off-label indications based on a clear benefit-risk assessment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gudrun Hefner
- Psychiatric Hospital, Vitos Clinic for Forensic Psychiatry, Kloster-Eberbach-Straße 4, 65346, Eltville, Germany.
| | - Jan Wolff
- Peter L. Reichertz Institute for Medical Informatics, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Sermin Toto
- Department of Psychiatry, Social Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany
| | - Pamela Reißner
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Vitos Klinikum Hochtaunus, Friedrichsdorf, Germany
| | - Ansgar Klimke
- Department of Psychiatry and Psychotherapy, Vitos Klinikum Hochtaunus, Friedrichsdorf, Germany.,Heinrich-Heine-University, Duesseldorf, Germany
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25
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Mathai DS, Lee SM, Mora V, O'Donnell KC, Garcia-Romeu A, Storch EA. Mapping consent practices for outpatient psychiatric use of ketamine. J Affect Disord 2022; 312:113-121. [PMID: 35753499 DOI: 10.1016/j.jad.2022.06.036] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/17/2021] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/20/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Given increasing community-based and off-label use of ketamine for psychiatric indications, we examined current informed consent processes from a convenience sample of outpatient ketamine clinics to identify areas of congruence with current evidence and opportunities for growth. METHODS Using a rubric developed from existing practice guidelines, we conducted an exploratory analysis of informed consent documents (IC-Docs) from 23 American clinics offering ketamine as a psychiatric treatment. Domains assessed included clinical content, procedures, and syntax. RESULTS Participating clinics (23/288) varied widely in their constitution, training, and services provided. We found that IC-Docs addressed a majority of consent elements, though did so variably on an item-level. Areas for improvement included communication around long-term adverse effects, treatment alternatives, medical/psychiatric evaluation prior to treatment, medical/psychological support during treatment, adjunctive psychological interventions, and subjective/dissociative-type effects. All forms were limited by poor readability. LIMITATIONS Our study was limited by convenience sampling along with possible underestimation of verbal consent processes. CONCLUSIONS As ketamine continues to emerge as a psychiatric intervention, both patients and providers will benefit from a deliberate consent process informed by scientific, ethical, and pragmatic factors toward the goal of shared decision-making regarding treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- David S Mathai
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baltimore, MD, United States of America.
| | - Scott M Lee
- Veteran Affairs Boston Healthcare System/Harvard Medical School, Department of Psychiatry, Brockton, MA, United States of America
| | - Victoria Mora
- Baylor College of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Houston, TX, United States of America
| | - Kelley C O'Donnell
- New York University Grossman School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry, New York, NY, United States of America
| | - Albert Garcia-Romeu
- Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Baltimore, MD, United States of America
| | - Eric A Storch
- Baylor College of Medicine, Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, Houston, TX, United States of America
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26
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Lee H, Zhang C, Rose R, dosReis S. Pediatric Off-Label Antipsychotic Use for Attention-Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder. Clin Ther 2022; 44:e83-e90. [PMID: 35965110 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinthera.2022.07.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2022] [Revised: 07/20/2022] [Accepted: 07/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Off-label antipsychotic use for behavioral symptoms in pediatric attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) poses safety concerns, and evidence to support such use is limited. This study aims to investigate the risk of off-label antipsychotic use associated with comorbid disruptive behavior disorder (DBD) among a cohort of youth with ADHD. METHODS A cohort study was conducted using IQVIA PharMetrics Plus for Academics data from 2007 to 2020. Youth 5 to 15 years of age at the index ADHD visit were included in the cohort. The index ADHD visit meets at least 1 of the following criteria: (1) 1 inpatient ADHD visit, (2) 2 outpatient ADHD visits within 90 days, or (3) an ADHD medication prescription fill within 30 days of an outpatient ADHD visit. We excluded youth who had a diagnosis of DBD or a US Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-approved indication for antipsychotics at baseline. Youth were followed up until antipsychotic initiation or were censored at a loss of coverage, receipt of an FDA-indicated diagnosis, or end of the study. A Cox proportional hazards regression model with DBD as a time-varying covariate estimated the hazard of antipsychotic use after the index ADHD visit. FINDINGS Of 41,098 youth with ADHD who met the study criteria, 4557 were diagnosed with DBD during follow-up. The incidence of antipsychotic initiation was 19.6 (95% CI, 18.7- 20.5) per 1000 person-years. After adjustment for baseline covariates, the hazard ratio of antipsychotic initiation associated with DBD was 4.64 (95% CI, 4.15-5.18). IMPLICATIONS Antipsychotic use among youth with ADHD is more likely in the presence of DBD, suggesting that an off-label use is for behavior problems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Haeyoung Lee
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Chengchen Zhang
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Roderick Rose
- University of Maryland School of Social Work, Baltimore, Maryland
| | - Susan dosReis
- Department of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, University of Maryland School of Pharmacy, Baltimore, Maryland.
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D’Agostino A, Aguglia A, Barbui C, Bartoli F, Carrà G, Cavallotti S, Chirico M, Ostinelli EG, Zangani C, Martinotti G, Ostuzzi G. Off-label long acting injectable antipsychotics in real-world clinical practice: a cross-sectional analysis of prescriptive patterns from the STAR Network DEPOT study. BMC Psychiatry 2022; 22:442. [PMID: 35773631 PMCID: PMC9245273 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-022-04071-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Information on the off-label use of Long-Acting Injectable (LAI) antipsychotics in the real world is lacking. In this study, we aimed to identify the sociodemographic and clinical features of patients treated with on- vs off-label LAIs and predictors of off-label First- or Second-Generation Antipsychotic (FGA vs. SGA) LAI choice in everyday clinical practice. METHOD In a naturalistic national cohort of 449 patients who initiated LAI treatment in the STAR Network Depot Study, two groups were identified based on off- or on-label prescriptions. A multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to test several clinically relevant variables and identify those associated with the choice of FGA vs SGA prescription in the off-label group. RESULTS SGA LAIs were more commonly prescribed in everyday practice, without significant differences in their on- and off-label use. Approximately 1 in 4 patients received an off-label prescription. In the off-label group, the most frequent diagnoses were bipolar disorder (67.5%) or any personality disorder (23.7%). FGA vs SGA LAI choice was significantly associated with BPRS thought disorder (OR = 1.22, CI95% 1.04 to 1.43, p = 0.015) and hostility/suspiciousness (OR = 0.83, CI95% 0.71 to 0.97, p = 0.017) dimensions. The likelihood of receiving an SGA LAI grew steadily with the increase of the BPRS thought disturbance score. Conversely, a preference towards prescribing an FGA was observed with higher scores at the BPRS hostility/suspiciousness subscale. CONCLUSION Our study is the first to identify predictors of FGA vs SGA choice in patients treated with off-label LAI antipsychotics. Demographic characteristics, i.e. age, sex, and substance/alcohol use co-morbidities did not appear to influence the choice towards FGAs or SGAs. Despite a lack of evidence, clinicians tend to favour FGA over SGA LAIs in bipolar or personality disorder patients with relevant hostility. Further research is needed to evaluate treatment adherence and clinical effectiveness of these prescriptive patterns.
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Affiliation(s)
- Armando D’Agostino
- grid.4708.b0000 0004 1757 2822Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy ,grid.415093.a0000 0004 1793 3800Department of Mental Health, San Paolo Hospital, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Aguglia
- grid.5606.50000 0001 2151 3065Department of Neuroscience, Rehabilitation, Ophthalmology, Genetics, Maternal and Child Health (DINOGMI), Section of Psychiatry, University of Genoa, Genoa, Italy ,grid.410345.70000 0004 1756 7871IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino, Genoa, Italy
| | - Corrado Barbui
- grid.5611.30000 0004 1763 1124WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Francesco Bartoli
- grid.7563.70000 0001 2174 1754Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Carrà
- grid.7563.70000 0001 2174 1754Department of Medicine and Surgery, University of Milano Bicocca, Monza, Italy
| | - Simone Cavallotti
- grid.415093.a0000 0004 1793 3800Department of Mental Health, San Paolo Hospital, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
| | - Margherita Chirico
- grid.4708.b0000 0004 1757 2822Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy ,grid.415093.a0000 0004 1793 3800Department of Mental Health, San Paolo Hospital, ASST Santi Paolo e Carlo, Milan, Italy
| | - Edoardo G. Ostinelli
- grid.4708.b0000 0004 1757 2822Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy ,grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK ,grid.8241.f0000 0004 0397 2876Oxford Precision Psychiatry Lab, NIHR Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK ,grid.416938.10000 0004 0641 5119Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Caroline Zangani
- grid.4708.b0000 0004 1757 2822Department of Health Sciences, Università degli Studi di Milano, Milan, Italy ,grid.4991.50000 0004 1936 8948Department of Psychiatry, University of Oxford, Oxford, UK ,grid.8241.f0000 0004 0397 2876Oxford Precision Psychiatry Lab, NIHR Oxford Health Biomedical Research Centre, Oxford, UK ,grid.416938.10000 0004 0641 5119Oxford Health NHS Foundation Trust, Warneford Hospital, Oxford, UK
| | - Giovanni Martinotti
- grid.412451.70000 0001 2181 4941Department of Neuroscience, Imaging and Clinical Sciences, University “G. d’Annunzio”, Chieti, Italy
| | - Giovanni Ostuzzi
- grid.5611.30000 0004 1763 1124WHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health and Service Evaluation, Department of Neuroscience, Biomedicine and Movement Sciences, Section of Psychiatry, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
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Taliaz D, Serretti A. Investigation of Psychoactive Medications: Challenges and a Practical and Scalable New Path. CNS Neurol Disord Drug Targets 2022; 22:CNSNDDT-EPUB-124837. [PMID: 35762546 DOI: 10.2174/1871527321666220628103843] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2022] [Revised: 03/17/2022] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
In the last two decades the validity of clinical trials in psychiatry has been subject to discussion. The most accepted clinical study method in the medical area, randomized controlled trial (RCT), faces significant problems when applied to the psychiatric world. One of the causes for this scenario is the strict participant inclusion and exclusion criteria that may not represent the real world. The inconsistency of the different endpoint parameters that are used in the field is another cause. We think that psychiatric RCTs' challenges, together with the underlying complexity of psychiatry, lead to a problematic clinical practice. Today, psychoactive drugs are routinely tested not in an official clinical trial setting. Off-label psychoactive drugs are commonly prescribed, and other substances, such as herbal remedies, are also regularly consumed. Learning from those real-life experiments can teach us useful lessons. Real-world data (RWD) includes information about heterogeneous patient populations, and it can be measured with standardized parameters. Collecting RWD can also address the need for systematically documenting and sharing case reports' outcomes. We suggest using digital tools to capture objective and continuous behavioral data from patients passively. New conclusions will be constantly drawn, possibly allowing more personalized treatment outcomes. The relevant next-generation decision support tools are already available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dekel Taliaz
- 2 Prof. Yehezkel Kaufmann Street, Textile Center (15th Floor), Tel Aviv 6801294, Israel
| | - Alessandro Serretti
- Department of Biomedical and NeuroMotor Sciences, University of Bologna, Italy
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29
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Li QY, Lv Y, An ZY, Dai NN, Hong X, Zhang Y, Liang LJ. Ethical review of off-label drugs during the COVID-19 pandemic. World J Clin Cases 2022; 10:5541-5550. [PMID: 35979109 PMCID: PMC9258355 DOI: 10.12998/wjcc.v10.i17.5541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2022] [Revised: 03/26/2022] [Accepted: 04/09/2022] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
High-quality scientific research is very important in attempting to effectively control the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic and ensure people’s health and safety. Chloroquine (CQ) and hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) have received much attention. This article comprehensively investigates the ethical review of off-label CQ and HCQ research during the COVID-19 pandemic with regard to strictly abiding by review standards, improving review efficiency, ensuring the rights and interests of subjects and that ethics committees conduct independent reviews, and achieving full ethics supervision of research conducted during an emergency. Research must be both rigorous and prudent to ensure the best outcome, with the maximization of benefits as the core principle. Standardization of the application, implementation and ethical review processes are needed to prevent unnecessary risk.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qiu-Yu Li
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Ye Lv
- Advanced Institute for Medical Sciences, Dalian Medical University, Dalian 116044, Liaoning Province, China
| | - Zhuo-Yu An
- Peking University Institute of Hematology, Peking University People’s Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Ni-Ni Dai
- Department of Pulmonary and Critical Care Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Xue Hong
- Department of Ethics Office, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Yu Zhang
- Department of Ethics Office, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Li-Jun Liang
- Department of Ethics Office, Peking University Third Hospital, Beijing 100191, China
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Cammarata SM, Capone G, Lombardi N, Pani L, Mugelli A. Systematic Data Monitoring and Analysis of Cardiovascular Off-label Prescriptions in Pediatrics: Focus on Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors (ACE-I) and Beta Blockers. High Blood Press Cardiovasc Prev 2022; 29:169-195. [PMID: 34997917 DOI: 10.1007/s40292-021-00499-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/13/2021] [Indexed: 10/19/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Many efforts have been made to stimulate clinical trials (CTs) in pediatrics but most of the drugs are still authorized only in adults and used off-label in the pediatric population. AIM To assess how widespread is the off-label prescription in Italy and to identify areas of unmet medical need by applying a model for the systematic collection and analysis of data. METHODS A study was performed using 2015 data from the Italian Medicines Utilization Monitoring Centre Health Database (OsMed). A study sample of 3,726,583 pediatric patients, was considered. Cardiovascular drugs were selected for this study. Assessment of the off-label use, the analysis of the pharmacovigilance signals, a bibliographic research and the analysis of ongoing CTs were carried out. RESULTS In 2015, 8,544 pediatric patients received treatment with a cardiovascular drug. Angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-I) followed by beta blockers agents are the most prescribed molecules. Eight molecules were selected and an in-depth analysis conducted. The PhV network showed only one record of adverse reaction as off-label in 2015. The results show several therapeutic areas of use in pediatrics. CONCLUSION Off-label in pediatrics is largely widespread in Europe and US and our results show it is also present in Italy. Molecules selected are used off-label for therapeutic areas such as oncologic, hematological and rare diseases. Results of pharmacovigilance suggests underreporting. The analysis carried out in this study could be an open track for a systematic monitoring activity and of interest for prescribers, pediatricians and other healthcare professionals during the clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- S M Cammarata
- Italian Medicines Agency (AIFA), Via del Tritone, 181, 00187, Rome, Italy. .,Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Viale G. Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy.
| | - G Capone
- Italian Medicines Agency (AIFA), Via del Tritone, 181, 00187, Rome, Italy
| | - N Lombardi
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Viale G. Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
| | - L Pani
- Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, University of Miami, School of Medicine, Miami, FL, 33136-1015, USA
| | - A Mugelli
- Department of Neurosciences, Psychology, Drug Research and Child Health, Section of Pharmacology and Toxicology, University of Florence, Viale G. Pieraccini, 6, 50139, Florence, Italy
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Anastasilakis AD, Makras P, Doulgeraki A, Polyzos SA, Guarnieri V, Papapoulos SE. Denosumab for the treatment of primary pediatric osteoporosis. Osteoporos Int 2021; 32:2377-2381. [PMID: 33987688 DOI: 10.1007/s00198-021-06002-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Primary osteoporosis is rare in children and adolescents and its optimal pharmacological management is uncertain. Bisphosphonates are commonly used while denosumab has only been administered to a few children with osteogenesis imperfecta. We studied a treatment-naïve 13.5-year-old boy with severe osteoporosis and multiple vertebral deformities who presented with back pain and difficulty in walking. Causes of secondary osteoporosis were excluded and there were no abnormalities in genes known to cause bone fragility. He was treated with denosumab 60 mg subcutaneously every 3 months for 30 months, and he was pain-free within 6 weeks after the first injection. Lumbar spine BMD and femoral neck BMD increased with treatment by 65.6% and 25.3%, respectively, and deformed vertebrae regained their normal shape; linear growth was not impaired. During the second year of treatment, transient hypercalcemia (maximum 3.09 mmol/l) before the denosumab injection was observed. In conclusion, denosumab was highly effective in this case of primary pediatric osteoporosis, with remarkable clinical and radiological response. Transient hypercalcemia was probably due to amplification of the effect of growth spurt and puberty on bone remodeling by the transient, short-term discontinuation of the drug. Furthermore, our data suggest that mobilization of calcium from treatment-induced sclerotic transverse lines in bone metaphyses may contribute to the development of hypercalcemia.
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Affiliation(s)
- A D Anastasilakis
- Department of Endocrinology, 424 General Military Hospital, Ring Road, 564 29 N.Efkarpia, Thessaloniki, Greece.
| | - P Makras
- Department of Endocrinology and Diabetes and Department of Medical Research, 251 Hellenic Air Force & VA General Hospital, Athens, Greece
| | - A Doulgeraki
- Department of Bone and Mineral Metabolism, Institute of Child Health, Athens, Greece
| | - S A Polyzos
- First Laboratory of Pharmacology, School of Medicine, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
| | - V Guarnieri
- Division of Medical Genetics, Fondazione IRCCS Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza, San Giovanni Rotondo, FG, Italy
| | - S E Papapoulos
- Center for Bone Quality, Department of Internal Medicine, Section Endocrinology, Leiden University Medical Center, Leiden, The Netherlands
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van Huizen AM, Vermeulen FM, Bik CMJM, Borgonjen R, Karsch SAT, Kuin RA, Gerbens LAA, Spuls PI. On which evidence can we rely when prescribing off-label methotrexate in dermatological practice? - a systematic review with GRADE approach. J DERMATOL TREAT 2021; 33:1947-1966. [PMID: 34425719 DOI: 10.1080/09546634.2021.1961999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/20/2022]
Abstract
If an authorized drug is prescribed for a use that is not described in the Summary of Product Characteristics, this is defined as 'off-label use.' Methotrexate is often used off-label for dermatological indications. Off-label use is permitted if physicians can justify the treatment based on scientific evidence available to them. Our objective here was therefore to summarize the evidence for the effectiveness, efficacy, and safety of the dermatological off-label use of methotrexate in a systematic review. We searched MEDLINE, EMBASE, and CENTRAL for studies for evidence on the effectiveness, efficacy, and safety of the off-label use of methotrexate in dermatological indications up to November 2019. We used the GRADE system to rate the quality of the evidence. The search retrieved 34,583 hits of which 3566 were selected after the title and abstract screening. After the full-text screening, 143 studies were included, which involved 3688 patients in total. We found low-quality evidence for the effectiveness, efficacy, and safety of the off-label use of methotrexate in 31 dermatological diseases. To optimize the quality of evidence to support off-label use, we need high-quality studies in which well-characterized patients are treated with standardized treatments regimens using well-validated outcomes relevant to patients and physicians.
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Affiliation(s)
- Astrid M van Huizen
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Public Health, Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Francisca M Vermeulen
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Public Health, Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | - Rinke Borgonjen
- Department of Dermatology, Gelderland Valley Hospital, Ede, The Netherlands
| | - Saskia A T Karsch
- Department of Family Medicine, UMC Utrecht, Utrecht, The Netherlands
| | - Rosanna A Kuin
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Public Health, Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Louise A A Gerbens
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Public Health, Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Phyllis I Spuls
- Department of Dermatology, Amsterdam Public Health, Infection and Immunity, Amsterdam UMC, University of Amsterdam, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Wang J, Jiang F, Yang Y, Zhang Y, Liu Z, Qin X, Tao X, Liu T, Liu Y, Tang YL, Liu H, Cotes RO. Off-label use of antipsychotic medications in psychiatric inpatients in China: a national real-world survey. BMC Psychiatry 2021; 21:375. [PMID: 34315410 PMCID: PMC8314470 DOI: 10.1186/s12888-021-03374-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2021] [Accepted: 07/08/2021] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The off-label use of antipsychotic medications is common in many countries, and the extent of such use in psychiatric inpatients in China has not been sufficiently studied. The purpose of this study was to survey the incidence and examine the correlates of off-label antipsychotic use in a large, nationally-representative sample in China. METHODS This study included discharged psychiatric patients between March 19 and 31, 2019 from 41 tertiary psychiatric hospitals across 29 provinces in China. Their socio-demographic and clinical data were collected and analyzed. RESULTS After excluding patients with schizophrenia spectrum disorder or bipolar disorder, 981 patients were included in the analysis. Overall, antipsychotics were prescribed to 63.2% (95%CI 60.2-66.2%) of the sample. Antipsychotics were used in a wide spectrum of psychiatric disorders, with the rate being the highest among patients with dissociative (conversion) disorders (89.9, 95%CI 83.0-94.8%), organic mental disorders (81.7, 95%CI 73.1-88.7%), dementia (79.0,95%CI 67.8-87.9%), obsessive-compulsive disorder (77.8, 95%CI 55.7-92.5%), mental disorders due to psychoactive substances (75.3,95%CI 64.7-84.2%), behavioural and emotional disorders with onset usually occurring in childhood and adolescence (71.4, 95%CI 45.5-90.1%), somatoform disorders (63.2, 95%CI 40.8%-82..2%), major depression disorder (53.7,95%CI 48.8-58.6%), anxiety disorder (38.8,95%CI 30.5-47.7%), and insomnia (25.0, 95%CI 8.5-28.9%). The top three most commonly used antipsychotics were olanzapine (29.1%), quetiapine (20.3%) and risperidone (6.8%), and their corresponding average doses were 9.04 ± 5.80 mg/day, 185.13 ± 174.72 mg/day, and 2.98 ± 1.71 mg/day, respectively. A binary logistic regression showed that younger age, having the Employee Health Insurance or Residents Health Insurance, having psychotic symptoms and requiring restraint during hospitalization were significantly associated with off-label use of antipsychotics. CONCLUSION Off-label use of antipsychotics is very common in psychiatric inpatients in China, mainly with moderate-dose use of single agents. However, the efficacy and safety of this practice is uncertain for many diagnoses and for the elderly. Clinicians should be cautious about this practice while waiting for more research data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Juan Wang
- grid.54549.390000 0004 0369 4060The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Lab for Neuroinformation, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China ,The Fourth People’s Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu Mental Health Center, 8 Hulixiyixiang, Jinniu District, Chengdu, China
| | - Feng Jiang
- grid.16821.3c0000 0004 0368 8293Institute of Health Yangtze River Delta, Shanghai Jiao Tong University, 1954 Huashan road, Xuhui district, Shanghai, China
| | - Yating Yang
- grid.459419.4Department of Psychiatry, Chaohu Hospital of Anhui Medical University, 64 Chaohu North Road, Chaohu District, Hefei, China ,Department of Psychiatry, Anhui Psychiatric Center, 64 Chaohu North Road, Chaohu District, Hefei, China
| | - Yulong Zhang
- grid.459419.4Department of Psychiatry, Chaohu Hospital of Anhui Medical University, 64 Chaohu North Road, Chaohu District, Hefei, China ,Department of Psychiatry, Anhui Psychiatric Center, 64 Chaohu North Road, Chaohu District, Hefei, China
| | - Zhiwei Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, Fuyang Third People’s Hospital, Fuyang, Anhui China
| | - Xiaorong Qin
- grid.54549.390000 0004 0369 4060The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Lab for Neuroinformation, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China ,The Fourth People’s Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu Mental Health Center, 8 Hulixiyixiang, Jinniu District, Chengdu, China
| | - Xueqin Tao
- grid.54549.390000 0004 0369 4060The Clinical Hospital of Chengdu Brain Science Institute, MOE Key Lab for Neuroinformation, University of Electronic Science and Technology of China, Chengdu, China ,The Fourth People’s Hospital of Chengdu, Chengdu Mental Health Center, 8 Hulixiyixiang, Jinniu District, Chengdu, China
| | - Tingfang Liu
- grid.12527.330000 0001 0662 3178Institute for Hospital Management of Tsinghua University, K308 Tsinghuayuan District, Shenzhen, China
| | - Yuanli Liu
- grid.506261.60000 0001 0706 7839School of Public Health, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College, 5 Dongdansantiao, Dongcheng District, Beijing, 100730 China
| | - Yi-lang Tang
- grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, 12 Executive Park Drive NE, Suite 150, Atlanta, GA 30329 USA ,grid.414026.50000 0004 0419 4084Mental Health Service Line, Atlanta VA Medical Center, Decatur, GA 30033 USA
| | - Huanzhong Liu
- Department of Psychiatry, Chaohu Hospital of Anhui Medical University, 64 Chaohu North Road, Chaohu District, Hefei, China. .,Department of Psychiatry, Anhui Psychiatric Center, 64 Chaohu North Road, Chaohu District, Hefei, China.
| | - Robert O. Cotes
- grid.189967.80000 0001 0941 6502Department of Psychiatry and Behavioural Sciences, Emory University School of Medicine, 12 Executive Park Drive NE, Suite 150, Atlanta, GA 30329 USA
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Abstract
BACKGROUND Governmental regulations of drug registration and licensing are not always followed by healthcare providers. OBJECTIVE To explore the global research growth and patterns on systemic use of off-label and unlicensed drugs to gain knowledge about the magnitude of the problem and the main research themes encountered in this field. METHODS SciVerse Scopus was searched for papers on off-label and unlicensed drug use from 1990 until December 31, 2020, without any language limitations. A bibliometric methodology was adopted to present the following indicators: top-cited documents, the most productive countries, top active journals, international research collaboration, the most frequent author keywords, and research themes. RESULTS The search query returned 1320 papers with an h-index of 66, published in 721 different journals. The Hospital Pharmacy journal ranked first (n = 43, 3.3%). In total, 5777 authors (median = 3) from 85 different countries contributed to the retrieved papers. The USA (n = 381, 28.9%) ranked first, followed distantly by Germany and Italy. The percentage of documents with international authors for active countries was from 8.8% for China to 42.3% for the Netherlands. The most frequent author keyword next to off-label was children/pediatrics. The keyword unlicensed was less frequently encountered than that for off-label. Major research themes in the retrieved papers focused on off-label drug use in hospitalized children/pediatrics, biological drugs such as rituximab and rFVIIa, psychiatric disorders, regulations, and questionnaire-based knowledge/attitude studies among community pharmacists and physicians. CONCLUSIONS Research activity on off-label drug use has witnessed a general increase in the past two decades. The major research theme was off-label drug use in hospitalized children/pediatrics/neonates. The USA and certain European countries made a major contribution to this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Waleed M Sweileh
- Department of Physiology, Pharmacology/Toxicology, Division of Biomedical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, An-Najah National University, Nablus, Palestine
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Rawal S, Kianian S, Guo W, Marquez J, Ayasse M, Siamas KA, Lee Y, Salvemini J. Alternative uses of ustekinumab for non-indicated dermatological conditions: a systematic review. Arch Dermatol Res 2021; 314:503-514. [PMID: 34156549 DOI: 10.1007/s00403-021-02262-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/11/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Ustekinumab is approved for the treatment of psoriasis and Crohn's disease. Because many dermatological conditions are due to immune-mediated development, ustekinumab may be effective in other conditions. A systematic review of the off-label uses of ustekinumab, as well as on-label adverse effect, was performed, reporting on clinical improvement. MEDLINE, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases were searched for studies regarding ustekinumab treatment of rativa (HS), lichen planus (LP), pyoderma gangrenosum (PG), pityriasis rubra pilaris (PRP), cutalopecia areata (AA), atopic dermatitis (AD), Bechet's disease, bullous pemphigoid (BP), hidradenitis suppuaneous sarcoidosis, cutaneous systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE), and vitiligo. Descriptive statistics were performed. 74 articles of 4596 screened were included, and reported on 212 patients receiving ustekinumab treatment. Across all studies, ustekinumab showed promise in treating patients: AA (10/12 patients; 83.3% improvement), AD (28/74 patients; 37.8% improvement), HS (42/52 patients; 80.8% improvement), and PRP (25/27 patients; 92.6% improvement), among others. Adverse events were noted with the use of ustekinumab, including development of AA (four patients), AD (three patients), and BP (four patients), among others. Ustekinumab can be a promising option for patients with dermatological conditions refractory to traditional therapies. Adverse events must be monitored in certain patients.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sahil Rawal
- Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony, Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA.
| | - Sara Kianian
- Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony, Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - William Guo
- Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony, Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Jocellie Marquez
- Division of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery at Stony, Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Marissa Ayasse
- Renaissance School of Medicine at Stony, Brook University, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Katherine A Siamas
- Department of Dermatology, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Yoojin Lee
- Department of Dermatology, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, NY, USA
| | - Joann Salvemini
- Department of Dermatology, Stony Brook University Hospital, Stony Brook, NY, USA
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Costa HTML, Florencio AP, Bezerra PKDV, Cavalcanti JEC, Costa TX, Fernandes FEM, Martins RR. [Comparative assessment of off-label and unlicensed drug prescription in neonatal intensive care: FDA versus Brazilian guidelines]. An Pediatr (Barc) 2021; 94:153-160. [PMID: 33514478 DOI: 10.1016/j.anpedi.2020.07.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/17/2020] [Revised: 07/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Regulatory agencies are responsible for defining the use of off-label (OL) and unlicensed (UL) drug prescription in neonatal intensive care. However, these regulatory criteria may differ between agencies in different countries. The aim of this study was to establish the frequency of OL and UL drug prescription in a sample of patients in a neonatal intensive care unit applying the criteria of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of the United States and the Agência Nacional de Vigilância Sanitária (ANVISA) of Brazil, analysing the differences observed in the results based on the applied criteria. METHODS Prospective cohort study in neonates admitted for more than 24hours to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) of a teaching maternity hospital between August 2017 and July 2018. We obtained information concerning the drugs included in the analysis of OL and UL prescriptions from the DrugDex-Micromedex® and official information on pharmaceutical products in Brazil. We used the kappa correlation coefficient to assess the agreement between the FDA and ANVISA criteria. We defined disagreement as a kappa value of less than 0.200. RESULTS We evaluated 220 neonates admitted to the NICU and 17,421 items prescribed during the study period. We did not find a difference in the proportion of neonates in which at least 1 drug was prescribed under OL conditions applying the FDA versus the ANVISA criteria (96.4% vs. 98.6%). We found differences between the FDA and ANVISA in the OL classification based on the authorised age of use and indications for prescription, mainly in systemic antimicrobials and cardiovascular drugs. When we compared the prescribing information provided by the FDA and the ANVISA, we found that the criteria of the ANVISA were less specific. CONCLUSIONS OL and UL drug prescription are frequent in neonatal intensive care applying the criteria of either agency, although the FDA has established more detailed criteria in terms of the ages and indications for which prescription is authorised.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Arlan Peres Florencio
- Departamento de Farmacia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brasil
| | | | | | - Tatiana Xavier Costa
- Hospital Universitario Materno-Infantil Januário Cicco, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande Norte, Natal, Brasil
| | | | - Rand Randall Martins
- Departamento de Farmacia, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brasil; Programa de Posgrado en Salud de la Mujer, Universidade Federal do Rio Grande do Norte, Natal, Brasil
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Lohberger Timsit B, Deroux A, Bouillet L, Colombe B, Lugosi M. [Assessment of the Internal Medicine Multidisciplinary Team meetings at the Grenoble University Hospital]. Rev Med Interne 2021; 42:452-8. [PMID: 33309054 DOI: 10.1016/j.revmed.2020.11.013] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2020] [Revised: 11/15/2020] [Accepted: 11/16/2020] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Multidisciplinary team (MDT) meetings purpose is to optimize the disease management regarding state of science. While cancer MDT has proven its effectiveness, this is not yet the case with internal medicine MDT. METHODS We performed a descriptive monocentric retrospective study. Data were collected from 247 MDT meeting reports which took place at the Grenoble University Hospital over a 5 years period. We investigated the data related to patient, MDT features, and decision-making process and reporting. Discussions were classified as diagnostic and/or therapeutic. RESULTS Three specialties, among which at least internal medicine, attended to meetings. While 12% of cases were considered as "complex", a specialist opinion was required in 18% of diagnostic discussions. With regards to therapeutic discussions, 35% were supported by guidelines, 50% of therapeutic implementation involved innovating and expensive drugs, with off-label prescription in 75% of them. The decision-making process was described in 6% of the reports. Treatment recommendations were actually implemented in 72% of the patients. CONCLUSION MDT meetings in Internal medicine meets a real need of physicians, in the ultimate interest of the patient. A prospective analysis would be interesting for a better definition of the evaluation criteria of these MDT meetings, meeting the physicians' needs, in patient management best interest. Prospective analyses are needed to better define MDT meetings assessment criteria.
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Etan T, Amir E, Tibau A, Yerushalmi R, Moore A, Shepshelovich D, Goldvaser H. National comprehensive cancer network recommendations for drugs without US food and drug administration approval in metastatic breast cancer: A cross-sectional study. Cancer Treat Rev 2020; 91:102113. [PMID: 33128993 DOI: 10.1016/j.ctrv.2020.102113] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 10/04/2020] [Accepted: 10/07/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) guidelines can include recommendations for off-label use of anti-cancer drugs. Here, we evaluate NCCN recommendations not supported by US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval and explore associations with such recommendations. METHODS All NCCN recommendations for MBC and their supporting data were identified. Drug labels were reviewed to determine whether recommendations are FDA approved. Logistic regression was used to compare FDA approved and off-label recommendations for pre-specified categories, including drug type, tumor subtype, level of recommendation and line of therapy. RESULTS Of 124 recommendations identified, 68 (55%) were off-label. Chemotherapy and human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) targeted drugs were associated with lower odds of FDA approval (OR = 0.28, p = 0.001 and OR = 0.29, 95% p = 0.005, respectively). Recommendations for endocrine therapy (OR = 3.44, p = 0.009) and non-HER2 targeted treatment (OR = 10.0, p < 0.001) were more commonly FDA approved indications. Compared to combination therapies, monotherapies were more likely to be FDA approved (OR = 3.45, p = 0.001) as were category 1 (OR = 7.63, p = 0.001) and preferred NCCN recommendations (OR = 4.07, p < 0.001). Compared to off-label recommendations, NCCN recommendations of approved drugs were based on significantly higher sample size (mean 477 vs. 342 patients, p = 0.02) and were non-significantly associated with availability of randomized data (OR = 2.0, 95% CI 0.89-4.49, p = 0.09). CONCLUSION More than half of all NCCN recommendations for MBC are off-label, mostly involving chemotherapy containing regimes for HER2 negative disease and combinations which include HER2-targeted drugs. Improved transparency of NCCN guidelines may result from reporting of the strength of the evidence supporting recommendations for MBC.
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Hindryckx P, Degroote H. Lumen-apposing metal stents for approved and off-label indications: a single-centre experience. Surg Endosc 2020; 35:6013-6020. [PMID: 33051767 DOI: 10.1007/s00464-020-08090-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2020] [Accepted: 10/03/2020] [Indexed: 01/25/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND STUDY AIMS Lumen-apposing stents (LAMS) are approved to treat peripancreatic collections and for gallbladder and bile duct drainage. Over the last years, LAMS have also been used for off-label indications including gastrojejunostomy, gastro-gastrostomy and drainage of postsurgical collections. We aimed to analyze indications, technical/clinical success rates and complications of all LAMS placed over the last 2 years. PATIENTS AND METHODS Data from 61 consecutive LAMS (Hot Axios, Boston Scientific) in 57 patients were analyzed. Technical success was defined as successful deployment of the LAMS in the desired position. Clinical success was defined as follows: for pancreatic collections: resolution without the need for non-endoscopic interventions; for choledochoduodenostomy: ≥ 50% drop in baseline serum bilirubin within 2 weeks AND patient can receive chemotherapy if indicated; for gastrojejunostomy: resolution of gastric outlet obstruction and successful re-initiation of oral intake; for gastro-gastrostomy: successful endoscopic access to the excluded stomach; for gallbladder or postsurgical collection drainage: resolution of sepsis. RESULTS Indications were drainage of peripancreatic collections in 24 cases (39.3%), choledochoduodenostomy in 13 (21.3%), gastrojejunostomy in 6 (9.8%), gastro-gastrostomy in 13 (21.3%), gallbladder drainage in 1 (1.6%) and postsurgical collection drainage in 4 (6.6%). Overall technical and clinical success rates were high (57/61; 93.4% and 54/61; 88.5%, respectively). Clinical success rate for non-approved indications was 95.6% (22/23 cases). Complications occurred in 13 patients (21.3%, 4 serious). CONCLUSIONS LAMS are increasingly used in interventional endoscopy. In our cohort, more than one third of LAMS are placed for off-label indications, with a high success rate and acceptable complication rate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pieter Hindryckx
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital of Ghent, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium.
| | - Helena Degroote
- Department of Gastroenterology and Hepatology, University Hospital of Ghent, Corneel Heymanslaan 10, 9000, Ghent, Belgium
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Thangaraju P, Venkatesan N, Thangaraju E, Venkatesan S. Are We Jumping the Gun with Itolizumab in India? A Situational Analysis from the Pre-COVID Era. SN Compr Clin Med 2020; 2:2131-2136. [PMID: 33015549 PMCID: PMC7519855 DOI: 10.1007/s42399-020-00550-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/24/2020] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Itolizumab, an anti-CD6 monoclonal antibody, has been recently approved for the off-label indication of cytokine release syndrome in the background of COVID-19, by the Drug Controller General of India. However, this drug has not been included in the National Clinical Management Protocol for COVID-19 yet. The limited-to-no experience of the Indian health workforce with the drug urged us to conduct a situational analysis in the pre-COVID era to analyse the degree of use of the drug and the indications for which it has been employed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pugazhenthan Thangaraju
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Raipur, Chhattisgarh India
| | | | - Eswaran Thangaraju
- AKT Memorial College of engineering and technology, Kallakurichi, Tamil Nadu India
| | - Sajitha Venkatesan
- Department of Microbiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Raipur, Chhattisgarh India
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Schwarze V, Froelich MF, Marschner C, Knösel T, Rübenthaler J, Clevert DA. Safe and pivotal approaches using contrast-enhanced ultrasound for the diagnostic workup of non-obstetric conditions during pregnancy, a single-center experience. Arch Gynecol Obstet 2021; 303:103-12. [PMID: 32761368 DOI: 10.1007/s00404-020-05735-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2020] [Accepted: 07/31/2020] [Indexed: 10/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Conventional ultrasound is the main imaging modality in obstetrics for assessing the maternal and fetal status. Up to date, contrast-enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) has not found widespread use in gynecology and obstetrics, but recent studies demonstrate promising results. The aim of the present study is to assess safe and valuable application of CEUS during pregnancy to investigate non-obstetric conditions. METHODS Five pregnant patients on whom CEUS was performed between 2019 and 2020 were included in this retrospective single-center study. A total of six CEUS examinations were performed including one CEUS-guided biopsy (mean age: 31 years, mean weeks of pregnancy: 18 weeks). CEUS examinations were performed by a consultant radiologist (EFSUMB level 3). RESULTS All included pregnant women safely underwent CEUS. Neither maternal nor fetal adverse effects were detected. CEUS critically helped in the diagnostic workup of a desmoid tumor of the abdominal wall, hepatic hemangioma, amebic hepatic abscess, uncomplicated renal cyst and post-inflammatory alteration of the renal cortex and for excluding active abdominal bleeding. In addition, CEUS-guided biopsy was performed to prevent intratumoral hemorrhage. Findings from CEUS prompted immediate treatment in two women, whereas in three women regular obstetric monitoring of the women could be conducted. CONCLUSION Our results demonstrate safe and crucial application of off-label CEUS in pregnant women to assess different non-obstetric conditions allowing to prevent additional ionizing CT or application of (gadolinium-based) contrast agent in MRI. Hence, CEUS might add pivotal value for evaluating obstetric and non-obstetric conditions and thereby directing clinical management of pregnant women in the future.
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Wang SK, Motaganahalli RL, Maijub JG, Sawchuk AP. Treatment of a traumatic aortic bifurcation injury with an iliac branch endoprosthesis. J Vasc Surg Cases Innov Tech 2020; 6:317-319. [PMID: 32685793 PMCID: PMC7355387 DOI: 10.1016/j.jvscit.2020.04.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/08/2020] [Indexed: 11/12/2022]
Abstract
We present the case of a 62-year-old man who sustained a traumatic distal aortic injury associated with an adjacent lumbar vertebral body fracture resulting from a 20-ft fall. Given the site of injury, an iliac artery branched endograft was deployed off-label to preserve the aortic bifurcation and cover a limited amount of healthy aorta to preserve the collaterals. The procedure was successful, with no intraoperative complications or evidence of an endoleak. The aortic bifurcation and distal iliac arteries remained widely patent by computed tomography angiography at the follow-up examination without evidence of sequelae.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Keisin Wang
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Ind
| | - Raghu L Motaganahalli
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Ind
| | - John G Maijub
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Ind
| | - Alan P Sawchuk
- Division of Vascular Surgery, Department of Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine, Indianapolis, Ind
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Manfredini VA, Cerini C, Clavenna A, Dotta A, Caccamo ML, Staffler A, Massenzi L, Rezzonico RM. Furosemide use in Italian neonatal intensive care units: a national survey. Ital J Pediatr 2020; 46:86. [PMID: 32571386 PMCID: PMC7310123 DOI: 10.1186/s13052-020-00851-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2020] [Accepted: 06/15/2020] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
Abstract Background Furosemide is approved in full term neonates to treat edema associated with congestive heart failure, cirrhosis and renal diseases. It is often administered off-label in premature neonates, to treat respiratory conditions and at doses greater-than-recommended. We conducted a national survey on behalf of the Neonatal Pharmacotherapy Study Group of the Italian Society of Neonatology (SIN), to investigate its use in Italian neonatal intensive care units (NICUs), in conformity with current guidelines. Methods Between December 2016 and June 2017, a 14-item multiple-choice online questionnaire was sent to all NICU directors from the SIN directory. Gestational age, route of administration, posology, indications, referenced guidelines, adverse effects monitoring and the presence of Paediatric Cardiology or Cardiosurgery service on site were assessed. A chi-square test was performed 1) to evaluate differences in the distribution of responses between NICUs administering furosemide at doses higher-than-recommended; 2) to compare the proportion of NICUs administering furosemide at high doses in institutions with versus without a Paediatric Cardiology or Cardiosurgery service. Results The response rate was 50% (57/114). The intravenous and oral routes were chosen primarily; the intravenous administration in single doses predominated over continuous infusion. Its main therapeutic indications were congestive heart failure/overload (94.7%) and oligo-anuria (87.7%) however furosemide was also frequently used for broncopulmonary dysplasia (50.9%) and respiratory distress syndrome and/or transient tachypnea of the newborn (24.6%). In 28/57 NICUs furosemide was administered at doses higher-than-recommended. In most NICUs the same posology was used in term and preterm neonates. Compared to the total sample, a larger proportion of NICUs administering doses greater-than-recommended referenced current literature for reasons to do so (19.3 and 32.1% respectively). The presence of a Paediatric Cardiology or Cardiosurgery service on site did not correlate with the chosen posology. The majority of NICUs performed acoustic test and renal ultrasound for furosemide exposure greater than 2 weeks. Conclusions In Italian NICUs, furosemide is commonly prescribed to term and preterm newborns for label and unlabeled indications. Doses greater-than-recommended are frequently administered. Such use is not necessarily inappropriate. More research is required to assess the efficacy and safety of unlabeled use.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chiara Cerini
- Children's Hospital Los Angeles, 4650 Sunset Boulevard, Los Angeles, CA, 90027, USA
| | - Antonio Clavenna
- Department of Public Health, Laboratory for Mother and Child Health, Istituto di Ricerche Farmacologiche Mario Negri IRCCS, Milan, Italy
| | - Andrea Dotta
- Department of Medical and Surgical Neonatology, Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Bambino Gesù Children Hospital, IRCCS, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Letizia Caccamo
- Indipedent researcher, Former director of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, Sant'Anna Hospital, Como, Italy
| | - Alex Staffler
- Division of Neonatology, Central teaching Hospital of Bolzano, Bozen, Italy
| | - Luca Massenzi
- Neonatology and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, "San Giovanni Calibita" Fatebenefratelli Hospital, Rome, Italy
| | - Rossano Massimo Rezzonico
- Indipendent researcher, Former director of Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, ASST Rhodense, Via C. Forlanini 95, 20024, Milan, Italy
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Fatokun O. Risk Minimization Measures in Off-Label Drug Use: A Survey of Community Pharmacists in Malaysia. Curr Drug Saf 2020; 15:181-189. [PMID: 32538733 DOI: 10.2174/1573403x16666200615144946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2020] [Revised: 04/19/2020] [Accepted: 05/22/2020] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND While off-label drug use is common and sometimes necessary, it also presents considerable risks. Therefore, measures intended to prevent or reduce the potential exposure to off-label risks have been recommended. However, little is known about community pharmacists' beliefs regarding these measures in Malaysia. OBJECTIVES This study examined community pharmacists' beliefs towards risk minimization measures in off-label drug use in Malaysia and assessed the relationship between perceived risk of off-label drug use and beliefs towards risk minimization measures. METHODS A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 154 pharmacists practicing in randomly selected community pharmacies in Kuala Lumpur and the State of Selangor, Malaysia. RESULTS The majority agreed or strongly agreed that adverse drug events from the off-label drug should be reported to the regulatory authority (90.9%) and the off-label drug should only be used when the benefit outweighs potential risks (88.3%). Less than half (48.1%) agreed or strongly agreed that written informed consent should be obtained before dispensing off-label drugs and a majority (63.7%) agreed or strongly agreed that the informed consent process will be burdensome to healthcare professionals. Beliefs towards risk minimization measures were significantly associated with perceived risk of off-label drug use regarding efficacy (p = 0. 033), safety (p = 0.001), adverse drug rection (p = 0.001) and medication errors (p = 0.002). CONCLUSION The community pharmacists have positive beliefs towards most of the risk minimization measures. However, beliefs towards written informed consent requirements are not encouraging. Enhancing risk perception may help influence positive beliefs towards risk minimization measures.
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Affiliation(s)
- Omotayo Fatokun
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, UCSI University, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur 56000, Malaysia
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Puig-Molto M, Pol-Yanguas E, Segarra L, Lumbreras B. Impact of the EMA/FDA alerts on the use of effective contraceptive method in women of childbearing age undergoing valproic acid treatment in a long-stay psychiatric center. Epilepsy Behav 2020; 107:107072. [PMID: 32278266 DOI: 10.1016/j.yebeh.2020.107072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/17/2020] [Revised: 03/19/2020] [Accepted: 03/23/2020] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We aimed to evaluate the impact of the European Medicines Agency (EMA) and Food Drug and Administration (FDA) alerts on the use of effective contraceptive method in women of childbearing age undergoing valproic acid treatment in a long-stay psychiatric center. MATERIAL AND METHODS An interrupted time-series analysis of women of childbearing age admitted in a long-stay psychiatric center (2013-2019), according to the EMA/FDA restrictions dates (October 2014 and February 2018). RESULTS Of the 82 cases included, 50 (61.0%) had an 'off-label' prescription. The percentage of cases with a contraceptive method before October 2014 (31.6%) increased to 61.5% after October 2014, p = 0.004. Women with an 'off-label' prescription after 2018 were more likely to use a contraceptive method than those before 2014, and there were not statistically significant differences in women with an 'under indication' prescription. CONCLUSIONS The recent regulatory restrictions on the use of a contraceptive method had a positive effect, mainly in women with an 'off-label' prescription. No effect was seen in women with epilepsy, probably because the intervention had started long before.
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Affiliation(s)
- María Puig-Molto
- Pharmacy Faculty, Miguel Hernandez University, Crtra Alicante-Valencia km 81. Sant Joan d'Alacant, 03550 Alicante, Spain
| | | | - Lidia Segarra
- Pharmacy Faculty, Miguel Hernandez University, Crtra Alicante-Valencia km 81. Sant Joan d'Alacant, 03550 Alicante, Spain
| | - Blanca Lumbreras
- Department of Public Health, History of Science and Gynecology, Miguel Hernández University, Crtra Alicante-Valencia km 81. Sant Joan d'Alacant, 03550 Alicante, Spain; CIBER en Epidemiología y Salud Pública, Crtra Alicante-Valencia km 81. Sant Joan d'Alacant, 03550 Alicante, Spain.
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Zammarchi L, Lazzarotto T, Andreoni M, Campolmi I, Pasquini L, Di Tommaso M, Simonazzi G, Tomasoni LR, Castelli F, Galli L, Borchi B, Clerici P, Bartoloni A, Tavio M, Trotta M. Management of cytomegalovirus infection in pregnancy: is it time for valacyclovir? Clin Microbiol Infect 2020; 26:1151-4. [PMID: 32289479 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmi.2020.04.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2020] [Revised: 03/26/2020] [Accepted: 04/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Congenital cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is the leading infectious cause of neurological impairment for which, currently, there are no approved antenatal treatment options. OBJECTIVES The aim of this article was to summarize the available evidence on the use of valacyclovir during pregnancy to prevent and treat congenital CMV infection and disease. SOURCES Two databases (PubMed and ClinicalTrial.gov) were reviewed. CONTENT Six relevant documents were identified, namely one observational study, three clinical trials, two case reports. Most relevant findings were those from two clinical trials. A phase 2/3 placebo-controlled study showed a decrease of 71% (5 of 45 vs 14 of 47) in rate of CMV vertical transmission in women treated with 8 g/day valacyclovir following primary CMV infection in pregnancy. A phase 2, single-arm clinical trial, showed that 8 g/day valacyclovir administered to mothers of symptomatic infected foetuses increased the portion of asymptomatic neonates to 82% (34 of 41), compared with 43% (20 of 47) in untreated pregnancies from a historical cohort. IMPLICATIONS Studies in favour of using valacyclovir during pregnancy for prevention and treatment of congenital CMV infection are emerging but are still few. Randomized clinical trials on large cohorts of patients investigating the efficacy on prevention and treatment of congenital CMV are required. Unfortunately, this will be probably not be feasible at least in the short period. In the meantime, data on the 'off label' use of valacyclovir for CMV in pregnancy could be collected within a multicentre observational study.
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Saunders JA, Gustafson WL, Vazquez SR, Jones AE, Witt DM. Real-world assessment of off-label direct oral anticoagulant dosing for venous thromboembolism. J Thromb Thrombolysis 2020; 48:506-510. [PMID: 31230262 DOI: 10.1007/s11239-019-01904-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
Preferred anticoagulation therapy for venous thromboembolism (VTE) has shifted from warfarin to direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs). Adherence to DOAC prescribing information is an important quality measure as off-label doses have been associated with increased risk of adverse events (AEs). To identify the prevalence, outcomes, and patient characteristics associated with off-label DOAC dosing during VTE treatment. Patients receiving DOAC for VTE treatment discharged from University of Utah Health (UUH) over a 90-day period were identified. Dosing was classified as "labeled" or "off-label" based on concordance with manufacturer prescribing information. AEs (thromboembolic events, bleeding, death) occurring within 90 days after discharge were identified. Out of 195 patients, 154 (79.0%) received labeled dosing, 31 (15.9%) received off-label dosing, and 10 (5.1%) were indeterminate. Two-thirds of off-label doses were higher than recommended and three-fourths occurred during extended treatment (more than 90 days post-VTE). Off-label dosing rates dropped to 5.6% when 6-month dose reductions were not required. Off-label dosing was associated with apixaban use and extended phase treatment (p < 0.001). No association was found between off-label dosing and age, renal function, prescriber rationale for dose selection, or Thrombosis Clinic referral. AEs were experienced by 18 (11.7%) and 3 (9.7%) patients in the labeled and off-label groups, respectively (p = 0.77). Bleeding events comprised 46.2% of AEs. The rate of off-label DOAC dosing for VTE at UUH was within rates reported in prior studies, occurred primarily with extended-duration apixaban, and did not result in a higher rate of AEs.
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Affiliation(s)
- John A Saunders
- Department of Pharmacotherapy, University of Utah College of Pharmacy, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Whitney L Gustafson
- Department of Pharmacotherapy, University of Utah College of Pharmacy, Salt Lake City, UT, USA
| | - Sara R Vazquez
- Department of Pharmacotherapy, University of Utah College of Pharmacy, Salt Lake City, UT, USA. .,University of Utah Health Thrombosis Center, 50 N Medical Drive Room 1R211, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA.
| | - Aubrey E Jones
- Department of Pharmacotherapy, University of Utah College of Pharmacy, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,University of Utah Health Thrombosis Center, 50 N Medical Drive Room 1R211, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA
| | - Daniel M Witt
- Department of Pharmacotherapy, University of Utah College of Pharmacy, Salt Lake City, UT, USA.,University of Utah Health Thrombosis Center, 50 N Medical Drive Room 1R211, Salt Lake City, UT, 84132, USA
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Zanaty M, Roa JA, Tjoumakaris SI, Jabbour P, Mouchtouris N, Sweid A, Ortega-Gutierrez S, Ishii D, Limaye K, Asi K, Samaniego EA, Hasan DM. Off-Label Use of the WEB Device. World Neurosurg 2020; 134:e1047-52. [PMID: 31759154 DOI: 10.1016/j.wneu.2019.11.076] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 11/12/2019] [Accepted: 11/13/2019] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE We present our initial experience with the off-label use of the Woven EndoBridge (WEB) device. METHODS We performed a retrospective study from 2 institutions of patients with intracranial aneurysms who underwent treatment with the WEB device alone or in conjunction with stenting and/or coiling in an off-labeled location. RESULTS Eleven patients with 12 aneurysms were included. Four (30.8%) aneurysms presented ruptured. Off-labeled locations included 3 aneurysms in the posterior communicating artery, 3 in the supraclinoid ophthalmic artery, 2 in the pericallosal artery, 2 in the posterior inferior cerebellar artery, 1 at the vertebrobasilar junction, and 1 in the cavernous internal carotid artery. Mean dome-to-neck ratio was 1.91 ± 0.9. Average duration of the procedure was 63.9 ± 29.6 minutes. Femoral route was used in 61.5%, and radial access in 48.5% of cases. Five procedures (41.7%) were performed under monitored anesthesia care. We had 1.33 attempts per aneurysm. WEB embolization was supplemented with coiling in 2 cases (16.67%) and stenting in 1 case (8.3%). Based on the O'Kelly-Marotta ("OKM") grading scale, we report a rate of 0% for grade 1, 33.3% for grade 2, and 33.3% for grade 3. Postprocedural occlusion was complete in 4 (33.3%) and adequate in 8 (66.6%) patients. No procedure-related deaths or symptomatic complications were reported. CONCLUSIONS The WEB device was successfully deployed in off-labeled locations, including posterior communicating artery, ophthalmic artery, and pericallosal aneurysms. The efficacy of this usage must be evaluated in multicenter prospective studies, but our preliminary results are promising. Correct characterization of the aneurysm size/morphology, as well as awareness of possible adjunct treatments, are crucial for successful intervention.
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Pantziarka P, Verbaanderd C, Huys I, Bouche G, Meheus L. Repurposing drugs in oncology: From candidate selection to clinical adoption. Semin Cancer Biol 2020; 68:186-191. [PMID: 31982510 DOI: 10.1016/j.semcancer.2020.01.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2019] [Revised: 12/17/2019] [Accepted: 01/16/2020] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
Drug repurposing is a strategy that aims to develop novel cancer treatments through the reuse of existing medicines developed in other disease areas. Such a strategy includes the identification of candidate drugs, clinical development, drug licensing, reimbursement and clinical implementation. This review outlines a literature-based approach to candidate selection with illustrative examples in osteosarcoma, pancreatic cancer and perioperative therapies. Key issues related to the development of clinical trials, drug licensing/approval and clinical adoption are explored to highlight some of the obstacles that must be overcome to successfully repurpose a drug as a new therapeutic option.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pan Pantziarka
- Anticancer Fund, Brussels, 1853 Strombeek-Bever, Belgium; The George Pantziarka TP53 Trust, London KT1 2JP, UK.
| | - Ciska Verbaanderd
- Anticancer Fund, Brussels, 1853 Strombeek-Bever, Belgium; Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | - Isabelle Huys
- Department of Pharmaceutical and Pharmacological Sciences, University of Leuven, Leuven, Belgium
| | | | - Lydie Meheus
- Anticancer Fund, Brussels, 1853 Strombeek-Bever, Belgium
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Bro T, Derebecka M, Jørstad ØK, Grzybowski A. Off-label use of bevacizumab for wet age-related macular degeneration in Europe. Graefes Arch Clin Exp Ophthalmol 2019; 258:503-511. [PMID: 31889214 DOI: 10.1007/s00417-019-04569-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/19/2019] [Revised: 11/27/2019] [Accepted: 12/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
PURPOSE To analyse current off-label use of bevacizumab for wet age-related macular degeneration (AMD) in Europe. METHODS The study was conducted as a combined survey and literature review. It included the 22 most populous countries in Europe. In each country, ophthalmologists with particular knowledge about off-label treatment responded to a questionnaire. RESULTS Answers were obtained from twenty European countries. The off-label use of bevacizumab for wet AMD greatly differed between nations; the bevacizumab proportion varied from non-existent (0%) to very high (97%). There were also large disparities within single countries (e.g. 0-80%), which were attributable to differences in regional decision-making. Both governmental institutions and national ophthalmological societies expressed highly diverging opinions on the use of off-label treatment. Intravitreal administration of bevacizumab had been a matter of legal dispute in several countries. The question about responsibility for off-label therapy mainly remained unanswered. CONCLUSIONS There was a highly varying utilization of bevacizumab between European countries. Despite an intention of a consistent approach to medical regulations, Europe has not yet reached a professional or political consensus on the ophthalmic off-label use of bevacizumab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomas Bro
- Futurum, the Academy for Health and Care in Region Jönköping, Jönköping, Sweden. .,Ögonmottagningen, Höglandssjukhuset, 575 81, Eksjö, Sweden.
| | | | - Øystein Kalsnes Jørstad
- Department of Ophthalmology, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.,Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway
| | - Andrzej Grzybowski
- University of Warmia and Mazury, Olsztyn, Poland.,Institute for Research in Ophthalmology, Poznan, Poland
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