Immunomodulating drugs in multiple sclerosis: compliance, satisfaction and adverse effects evaluation in a German multiple sclerosis population

Abstract

Treating MS is a challenge and to positively influence the course of the disease it is necessary to administer medication in a constant manner. Our data showed a moderate compliance and satisfaction with the immunomodulating medication. Adverse effects and perceived lack of treatment effect were reasons for discontinuation of therapy. To increase compliance and satisfaction with treatment, adequate information about MS, the therapeutic options, handling of medication, side-effects and their management are necessary. Additionally, realistic therapeutic aims should be discussed with the patients.

Postmarketing Safety Profile of Subcutaneous Interferon Beta-1a Given 3 Times Weekly: A Retrospective Administrative Claims Analysis

“…7 While numerous postmarketing, noninterventional observational studies involving IFN β-1a SC tiw have been conducted, most have focused on drug effectiveness or adherence as opposed to safety. [8][9][10][11][12][13] Others have focused on only 1 AE, 14,15 have had small sample sizes, or have featured relatively short follow-up periods (< 2 years). [16][17][18][19][20] The limited follow-up periods are of particular concern given that MS is a disease characterized by a progressive course that typically spans many years.…”

Patients’ satisfaction with and views about treatment with disease-modifying drugs in multiple sclerosis

“…Better, however, does not necessarily mean safer or more efficacious, or easier to administer or to follow up. Despite the clearly established benefits of DMDs, the rate of adherence remains moderate, at best, in the few studies assessing these parameters 2,3,4,5 . The present study assessed the degree of satisfaction of patients with MS regarding treatments with DMDs prescribed for them at five different Brazilian MS Units.…”

Treatment Satisfaction in Multiple Sclerosis

“…Participants were most satisfied with GA, followed by IFNβ-1b, and least satisfied with IFNβ-1a IM and IFNβ-1a SC, although the differences between groups were not statistically significant. 12 Turner et al 16 examined DMT satisfaction in patients treated with IFNβ-1b, IFNβ-1a IM, IFNβ-1a SC, and GA at 2 months, 4 months, and 6 months. Participants were asked how satisfied they were with their DMT, with responses ranging from 1 ("not at all") to 5 ("extremely").…”

“…[1][2][3]9,10 Despite the benefits of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for MS, several problems are associated with their use, including inconvenient methods and schedules of administration, long periods of therapy, and significant side effects. 11,12 In addition, DMT use is complicated by the unpredictability of the MS disease course and the fact that disease-modifying drugs do not provide direct relief of ongoing MS-related symptoms. The many problems associated with DMT use may affect an individual's adherence to therapy.…”