Burden of adverse drugs reactions with biologics
Infections and musculoskeletal complaints are adverse drug reactions (ADRs) with the highest burden for the patient, while injection site reactions have the lowest burden according to participants in the Dutch Biologic Monitor. The patient-reported burden of ADRs experienced with the use of biological drugs was described using data from the Dutch Biologic Monitor, a Lareb Intensive Monitoring project.
Patients using a biologic for an immune-mediated inflammatory disease in 9 Dutch hospitals were invited to participate in the Dutch Biologic Monitor. Out of 1,355 participants, 665 patients (49%) collectively reported 1,720 unique ADRs. The burden of ADRs leading to healthcare professional contact was higher than the burden of ADRs without healthcare professional contact. Smoking, respiratory and psychiatric comorbidities were associated with higher burden of ADRs. Crohn’s disease, use of adalimumab and use of sulfasalazine as combination therapy were associated with lower burden of ADRs.
A better understanding of patient perceptions of ADRs and the burden these ADRs impose can help healthcare professionals in proposing more personalised treatment options, which may lead to improved clinical outcomes.