Osteoporosis medication profile preference: results from the PREFER-US study

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Pharmacology
• Health Services Research

Background:

• Osteoporosis management requires patient adherence for optimal outcomes.
• Understanding patient preferences is crucial for selecting effective osteoporosis medications.
• Existing treatments vary in dosing, administration, and demonstrated efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate patient preferences between two distinct osteoporosis medication profiles.
• To identify the most influential attributes in patient decision-making for osteoporosis drugs.

Main Methods:

• An internet-based survey assessed preferences of 999 women aged 50+ for two medication profiles (Drug A vs. Drug B).
• Profiles differed in time on market, dosing frequency, effectiveness claims, and administration procedures, while costs and side effects were standardized.
• Patients utilized force ranking and rating scales to determine attribute importance.

Main Results:

• Drug B, representing proven reduction in non-vertebral and hip fracture risk, was preferred by 96% of respondents.
• Medication effectiveness was the paramount factor (79% ranked #1), followed by time on market, dosing procedure, and dosing frequency.
• No significant subgroup differences were observed in medication profile preference.

Conclusions:

• Patient preference strongly favors osteoporosis medications with proven efficacy in reducing major fracture risks.
• Effectiveness is the primary determinant in patient choice, more so than administration convenience or market longevity.
• Integrating patient preferences into treatment decisions may improve medication compliance and clinical results in osteoporosis care.