Perception of the impact of intravenous biological treatment on the work and professional environment in patients with inflammatory bowel disease

Abstract

Introduction

In the treatment of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), we have biologic therapies administered intravenously and subcutaneously. Recently, some drugs can be administered by either of these routes. The real impact that intravenous administration has on the perception of the disease and the personal and work life of the patient is unknown.

Methods

All IBD patients receiving intravenous infliximab treatment for at least 6 months were anonymously invited to participate. They were provided with a specific structured questionnaire with visual analogue scales (0–10) at two reference centers in the Barcelona area.

Results

A total of 90 patients with a median age of 45 years (36–56) and a median infliximab treatment duration of 48 months (24−84) were included. The visit and therapy with infliximab in the day hospital were globally well evaluated (9, IQR 7–10). 78% of patients combined day hospital stays with other activities (26% employment). The personal impact was generally low (4, IQR 0–5.8), but the patient’s job was threatened in 43% of patients on intensified treatment.

Conclusions

The intravenous administration of biologic drugs on an outpatient basis is highly satisfactory among IBD patients. The impact on the work sphere appears to be more pronounced than on the personal sphere, an aspect that should be considered in shared decision-making with the patient.