[Subcutaneous versus intravenous routes in oncology: Preferences and impacts for patients and healthcare professionals].

Abstract

Introduction: The introduction of subcutaneous formulation in oncology led to significant changes for patients and healthcare professionals, with under-explored organizational and economic impacts. The aim of this pragmatic literature review is to compile evidence documenting the impact of subcutaneous formulation in comparison with intravenous administration in oncology, on patients, healthcare professionals and health facilities, and the associated economic implications.

Methods: The analysis is based on the PRISMA methodology to identify relevant articles and posters published or presented between 2017 and September 2023 in five major European countries, using keywords related to patients perspective, organizational impacts on health facilities, and economic impacts.

Results: Among the 558 identified articles and communications, 16 met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Between 69% and 99% of patients indicated a preference for the subcutaneous formulation mainly due to the timesaving benefits it allows. The duration of inpatient hospital stay was reduced by 33% to 68% for patients treated with trastuzumab. In France, optimized care pathways for subcutaneous administration of trastuzumab and rituximab increased economic benefits with an estimated average total gain of €157,103 per department.

Discussion: This literature review highlights the significant benefits of using subcutaneous formulation versus intravenous formulation in oncology. Its usage is clearly favored by stakeholders, and it enables significant cost savings, further enhanced by the implementation of dedicated healthcare pathways.