Veselina Skrinska-Kirilova, Javier Sawchik, Martine Sabbe, Martine Debacker, Guy Weber, Anne-Cécile Vuillemin, Jamila Hamdani
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Background: Topical ketoprofen gel (Fastum gel) is used for the treatment of rheumatic and traumatic musculoskeletal pain. Following reports of photosensitivity reactions, additional risk minimisation measures have been implemented in Europe to inform healthcare professionals (HCPs) and patients about this risk.
Objective: The main objectives of our survey were to assess both HCPs' awareness of the risk of photosensitivity associated with Fastum gel and their opinion on the usefulness of an annual direct healthcare professional communication (DHPC) in Belgium and Luxembourg.
Methods: A cross-sectional online survey was conducted between June and July 2023, approximately 1 month after the annual distribution of the DHPC. Targeted HCPs were asked about their awareness of the photosensitivity risk associated with Fastum gel, as well as their opinion on the usefulness of the annual DHPC. The study also explored the channels through which the information was received, along with awareness and use of educational materials. Frequencies and percentages were calculated both overall and by HCP category for each country.
Results: In Belgium, 569 HCPs responded to the survey. Almost all HCPs reported that they were aware of this risk (99%). More than half of pharmacists (58%) and half of physicians (50%) indicated that an annual DHPC is necessary. Around half of the respondents (49%) recalled receiving information about the risk in 2023, primarily through the DHPC (68%) while outlining other channels such as the logo on the packaging (42%) and the Summary of Product Characteristics (40%). Awareness of the patient card (32%) and the checklist (5%) was overall low, with very limited use in 2023. In Luxembourg, 190 HCPs responded to the survey. Almost all HCPs reported that they were aware of this risk (97%). The majority of pharmacists (70%) and more than half of physicians (52%) supported the annual DHPC distribution. Over two thirds of the respondents (68%) recalled receiving relevant information in 2023, mainly through the DHPC (70%) but also through the SmPC (30%). Awareness of the patient card (22%) and the checklist (13%) was overall low, with very limited use in 2023.
Conclusions: The results indicate a high level of awareness of the photosensitivity risk of Fastum gel among participating HCPs. Notably, a majority of HCPs expressed the need for an annual DHPC. This study also underscores the importance of using multiple channels of information to increase the opportunities for reaching HCPs. Nevertheless, the survey revealed limited use of the checklist and the patient card among HCPs.
期刊介绍：
Drugs - Real World Outcomes targets original research and definitive reviews regarding the use of real-world data to evaluate health outcomes and inform healthcare decision-making on drugs, devices and other interventions in clinical practice. The journal includes, but is not limited to, the following research areas: Using registries/databases/health records and other non-selected observational datasets to investigate: drug use and treatment outcomes prescription patterns drug safety signals adherence to treatment guidelines benefit : risk profiles comparative effectiveness economic analyses including cost-of-illness Data-driven research methodologies, including the capture, curation, search, sharing, analysis and interpretation of ‘big data’ Techniques and approaches to optimise real-world modelling.
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