Identifying Causes of Subcutaneous Immunotherapy Non-Adherence in Patients with Allergic Rhinitis: A Cross-Sectional...

Area of Science:

• Allergy and Immunology
• Otolaryngology
• Pharmacology

Background:

• Allergic rhinitis (AR) significantly impacts quality of life.
• Subcutaneous immunotherapy (SCIT) is an effective treatment for AR, but adherence can be challenging.
• Understanding reasons for SCIT discontinuation is crucial for improving patient outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify the primary reasons for SCIT discontinuation in patients with AR.
• To inform strategies aimed at enhancing treatment adherence and long-term success of SCIT.

Main Methods:

• A retrospective cross-sectional study included 794 AR patients who initiated standardized SCIT.
• Data on SCIT discontinuation, reasons, and patient demographics were collected via structured telephone follow-up.
• Efficacy was assessed by visual analogue scale (VAS) reduction and patient-reported improvement.

Main Results:

• 7.30% of patients discontinued SCIT, with relocation being the most common reason (53.45%).
• Perceived lack of efficacy (17.24%), limited time (8.62%), and pregnancy (6.90%) were other significant factors.
• Females were more likely to discontinue due to relocation, while males cited unsatisfactory efficacy more often.

Conclusions:

• SCIT discontinuation is primarily influenced by relocation, treatment expectations, and logistical challenges.
• Gender-specific patterns in discontinuation reasons were observed.
• Tailored pre-treatment counseling and proactive management of lifestyle/reproductive plans can improve SCIT adherence.