Shifts in treatment initiation patterns among newly diagnosed multiple sclerosis patients in Germany: a claims data analysis from 2017 to 2022.

Abstract

Background: Early use of high-efficacy therapies (EHT) in multiple sclerosis (MS) is a promising but novel treatment strategy. Its adoption in Germany's MS care warrants further research.

Objectives: This study assessed treatment initiation patterns among newly diagnosed MS patients in Germany (2017-2022).

Design: This is a retrospective observational study.

Methods: Claims data from 4.5 million individuals insured by German statutory health insurance included 1448 newly diagnosed MS patients from 2017 to 2022. Patients were identified by International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th revision, German modification (ICD-10-GM) code G35 - in two different quarters of the same year, and a disease-modifying therapy (DMT) prescription, with no prior MS diagnosis or DMT prescription in the preceding 2 years. DMTs were categorized according to German Society of Neurology S2k guidelines: category 1 (low-efficacy), category 2 (moderate-efficacy) and category 3 (high-efficacy).

Results: Of patients initiating treatment, 77.1% started with category 1, 8.1% with category 2 and 14.8% with category 3 DMTs. From 2017 to 2022, category 1 initiations declined by 7.6% points (pp), while categories 2 and 3 initiations increased by 2.8 and 4.8 pp, respectively. Escalation to category 3 occurred in 10.5% of category 1/2 starters, with 31.5% taking over 2 years. De-escalation to category 1/2 occurred in 3.3% of category 3 starters.

Conclusion: Real-world data highlight a shift towards EHT in MS care.