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Published on: December 9, 2015
[Actual adherence to dimethyl fumarate in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis]
J de Sá1, J Ferreira1, A M Macedo2
1Hospital de Santa Maria. Centro hospitalario Lisboa Norte, Lisboa, Portugal.
Introduction:
Multiple sclerosis is a chronic neurological disease with numerous disease-modifying treatments available, including dimethyl fumarate (DMF), a first-line therapy for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. Although rates of discontinuation of DMF are generally low in clinical trials, non-adherence to treatment is associated with poorer clinical outcomes. Assessing real-world adherence and predictive factors is critical to be able to improve clinical outcomes for patients. This study evaluated adherence to DMF over 24 months in a cohort of patients treated in a Portuguese healthcare centre.
Patients And Methods:
A prospective, non-interventional, single-centre study with 24 months' follow-up was conducted. The study included adult patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis treated with DMF in routine clinical practice. Adherence to DMF was calculated and patients were considered to have adhered if the value was above 80%. Clinical and socio-demographic variables were compared between groups.
Results:
Of the 80 patients included, 74% were women, with a mean age of 39 years and a mean age of 32 years at diagnosis. Twenty-six patients had not received any previous treatment. Adherence varied between 93, 82 and 87.5% at 6, 12 and 24 months, respectively. No differences were found between patients who had not received any prior treatment and those who had been treated.
Conclusion:
This real-world analysis showed significant adherence to DMF treatment by Portuguese patients over a period of two years. However, these results must be interpreted in the light of the substantial changes in outpatient consultations and the various periodic restrictions due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which had an important effect on patient follow-up and data collection.
Insights
Portuguese patients showed high adherence to dimethyl fumarate (DMF) for multiple sclerosis over two years. Real-world adherence remains strong despite treatment challenges.
Area of Science:
- Neurology
- Pharmacology
- Public Health
Context:
- Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic neurological condition.
- Dimethyl fumarate (DMF) is a first-line treatment for relapsing-remitting MS.
- Real-world adherence data is crucial for optimizing patient outcomes.
Purpose:
- To evaluate the adherence to DMF over 24 months in a Portuguese patient cohort.
- To identify factors influencing DMF adherence in routine clinical practice.
Summary:
- A 24-month prospective study followed 80 patients with relapsing-remitting MS treated with DMF.
- Adherence rates remained high, ranging from 82% to 93% across the follow-up period.
- No significant differences in adherence were observed between treatment-naïve and previously treated patients.
Impact:
- This study demonstrates significant real-world adherence to DMF in Portugal.
- Findings underscore the importance of continuous treatment for managing MS.
- Results provide valuable insights for healthcare providers managing MS patients on DMF therapy.
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