Feasibility and Safety of Sildenafil to Repair Brain Injury Secondary to Birth Asphyxia (SANE-01): A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled Phase Ib Clinical Trial.

OBJECTIVE: To test feasibility and safety of administering sildenafil in neonates with neonatal encephalopathy (NE), developing brain injury despite therapeutic hypothermia (TH). STUDY DESIGN: We performed a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled phase Ib clinical trial between 2016 and 2019 in neonates with moderate or severe NE, displaying brain injury on day-2 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) despite TH. Neonates were randomized (2:1) to 7-day sildenafil or placebo (2 mg/kg/dose enterally every 12 hours, 14 doses). Outcomes included feasibility and safety (primary outcomes), pharmacokinetics (secondary), and day-30 neuroimaging and 18-month neurodevelopment assessments (exploratory). RESULTS: Of the 24 enrolled neonates, 8 were randomized to sildenafil and 3 to placebo. A mild decrease in blood pressure was reported in 2 of the 8 neonates after initial dose, but not with subsequent doses. Sildenafil plasma steady-state concentration was rapidly reached, but decreased after TH discontinuation. Twelve percent of neonates (1/8) neonates died in the sildenafil group and 0% (0/3) in the placebo group. Among surviving neonates, partial recovery of injury, fewer cystic lesions, and less brain volume loss on day-30 magnetic resonance imaging were noted in 71% (5/7) of the sildenafil group and in 0% (0/3) of the placebo group. The rate of death or survival to 18 months with severe neurodevelopmental impairment was 57% (4/7) in the sildenafil group and 100% (3/3) in the placebo group. CONCLUSIONS: Sildenafil was safe and well-absorbed in neonates with NE treated with TH. Optimal dosing needs to be established. Evaluation of a larger number of neonates through subsequent phases II and III trials is required to establish efficacy. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.govNCT02812433.

Medical cannabis use by rheumatology patients in routine clinical care: results from The Ontario Best Practices Research Initiative.

OBJECTIVES: Medical cannabis is often used to alleviate common symptoms in patients with chronic conditions. With cannabis legalisation in Canada and easier access, it is important that rheumatologists understand its potential impact on their practice. Among patients attending rheumatology clinics in Ontario we assessed: the prevalence of medical cannabis use; symptoms treated; rheumatologists' perceptions. METHODS: Eight rheumatology clinics recruited consecutive adult patients in a 3-part medical cannabis survey: the first completed by rheumatologists; the second by all patients; the third by medical cannabis users. Student's t-test and Chi-square test were used to compare medical cannabis users to never users. RESULTS: 799 patients participated, 163 (20.4%) currently using medical cannabis or within <2 years and 636 never users; most had rheumatoid arthritis (37.8%) or osteoarthritis (34.0%). Compared to never users, current/past-users were younger; more likely to be taking opioids/anti-depressants, have psychiatric/gastrointestinal disorders, and have used recreational cannabis (p<0.05); had higher physician (2.9 vs. 2.1) and patient (6.0 vs. 4.2) global scores, and pain (6.2 vs. 4.7) (p<0.0001). Pain (95.5%), sleeping (82.3%) and anxiety (58.9%) were the most commonly treated symptoms; 78.2% of current/past-users reported medical cannabis was at least somewhat effective. Most rheumatologists reported being uncomfortable to authorise medical cannabis, primarily due to lack of evidence, knowledge, and product standardisation. CONCLUSIONS: Medical cannabis use among rheumatology patients in Ontario was two-fold higher than that reported for the general population of similar age. Use was associated with more severe disease, pain, and prior recreational use. Reported lack of research, knowledge, and product standardisation were barriers for rheumatologist use authorisation.

Differential influence of Clinical Disease Activity Index components based on disease state in rheumatoid arthritis patients: real-world results from the Ontario Best Practices Research Initiative.

OBJECTIVES: The Clinical Disease Activity Index (CDAI) is routinely used in clinical care when treating-to-target RA patients. Previous validation studies have looked at CDAI's overall performance; this analysis aimed at evaluating its properties by disease state and identifying drivers of variance. METHODS: RA patients enrolled in the OBRI registry, with available follow-up of ≥6 months were included. Construct validity of CDAI was assessed with principal component analysis; internal consistency with Cronbach's alpha (α); correlational validity with Spearman's rho (ρ); agreement in disease state classification with the kappa statistic. Stratification by disease states was performed. RESULTS: CDAI correlation with DAS28 was strong when CDAI>10 (ρ=0.79), moderate when CDAI≤10 (ρ=0.56) or 2.810, CDAI was able to be reduced to a single component with patient global assessment (PtGA) having the lowest loading. When CDAI≤10, two distinct components were identified: (1) PtGA and physician global assessment; (2) SJC28 and TJC28. Moderate levels (α=0.71) of internal consistency were observed when CDAI>10 but low when CDAI≤10 (α=0.23), 2.8

Asphyxiated Neonates Treated with Hypothermia: Birth Place Matters.

OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to assess whether the hospital level of care where asphyxiated neonates treated with hypothermia were originally born influences their outcome. STUDY DESIGN: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of all asphyxiated neonates treated with hypothermia in a large metropolitan area. Birth hospitals were categorized based on provincially predefined levels of care. Primary outcome was defined as death and/or brain injury on brain magnetic resonance imaging (adverse outcome) and was compared according to the hospital level of care. RESULTS: The overall incidence of asphyxiated neonates treated with hypothermia significantly decreased as hospital level of care increased: 1 per 1,000 live births (109/114,627) in level I units; 0.9 per 1,000 live births (73/84,890) in level II units; and 0.7 per 1,000 live births (51/71,093) in level III units (p < 0.001). The rate of emergent cesarean sections and the initial pH within the first hour of life were significantly lower in level I and level II units compared with level III units (respectively, p < 0.001 and p = 0.002). In a multivariable analysis adjusting for the rates of emergent cesarean sections and initial pH within the first hour of life, being born in level I units was confirmed as an independent predictor of adverse outcome (adjusted odds ratio [OR] level I vs. level III 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.13 [1.02-4.43], p = 0.04) and brain injury (adjusted OR level I vs. level III 95% CI: 2.41 [1.12-5.22], p = 0.02). CONCLUSION: Asphyxiated neonates born in level I units and transferred for hypothermia treatment were less often born by emergent cesarean sections, had worse pH values within the first hour of life, and had a higher incidence of adverse outcome and brain injury compared with neonates born in level III units. Further work is needed to optimize the initial management of these neonates to improve outcomes, regardless of the location of their hospital of birth. KEY POINTS: · The incidence of asphyxiated neonates treated with hypothermia varied by hospital level of care.. · Their rates of emergent cesarean sections and their initial pH within the first hour of life varied by hospital level of care.. · The hospital level of care was an independent predictor of their adverse outcome, defined as death and/or brain injury on brain MRI..

Safety and therapeutic value of radiosynoviorthesis with yttrium-90: a Canadian single-centre experience.

BACKGROUND: Yttrium-90 (90Y) is approved in several countries as a radiosynoviorthesis agent in the intra-articular treatment of synovitis, however, no such radiopharmaceuticals are approved in Canada. The aim of this Health Canada-approved study was to examine the safety and efficacy of 90Y synovectomy among patients with refractory synovitis. METHODS: We performed a subset analysis of a prospective, phase III, single-arm, pan-Canadian trial. Large and medium-sized joints of adults with refractory inflammatory mono- or oligo-arthritis and minimal cartilage/bone destruction who failed treatment with two intra-articular corticosteroid injections were eligible. Patient follow-up was at 3, 6 and 12 months. Outcome measures included joint tenderness, swelling, effusion, joint function and bone scans. RESULTS: A total of 79 joints were included (90% knees). The underlying diagnosis included SpA (35.2% of patients), RA (26.8%), JIA (8.5%) and other (29.6%). Non-biologic DMARDs were concurrently used in 59.2% of patients and biologic/targeted synthetic DMARDs in 31%. Five adverse events occurred, including one serious radiation burn requiring surgery. All events were non-life-threatening and resolved. Significant improvements in joint tenderness, swelling and effusion were achieved at 3 months (P < 0.001), which were maintained until 12 months. During follow-up, 92.3% of joints did not show radiographic progression. Per the treating physician, clinically important improvement in joint function was observed in 90% of joints. CONCLUSION: Our results confirm the safety of 90Y radiosynoviorthesis in refractory synovitis and provide preliminary evidence supporting its clinical efficacy with sustained benefit at 12 months, suggesting that it is a safe alternative to surgical synovectomy in such cases. This is the first such study in a Canadian cohort.

Time to remission in swollen joints is far faster than patient reported outcomes in rheumatoid arthritis: results from the Ontario Best Practices Research Initiative (OBRI).

OBJECTIVES: RA patients are often not in remission due to patient global assessment of disease activity (PtGA) included in disease activity indices. The aim was to assess the lag of patient-reported outcomes (PROs) after remission measured by clinical disease activity index (CDAI) or swollen joint count (SJC28). METHODS: RA patients enrolled in the Ontario Best Practices Research Initiative registry not in low disease state at baseline with at ≥6 months of follow-up, were included. Low disease state was defined as CDAI ≤ 10, SJC28 ≤ 2, PtGA ≤ 2cm, pain score ≤ 2cm, or fatigue ≤ 2cm. Remission included CDAI ≤ 2.8, SJC28 ≤ 1, PtGA ≤ 1cm, pain score ≤ 1cm, or fatigue ≤ 1cm. Time to first low disease state/remission based on each definition was calculated overall and stratified by early vs established RA. RESULTS: A total of 986 patients were included (age 57.4 (12.9), disease duration 8.3 (9.9) years, 80% women). The median (95% CI) time in months to CDAI ≤ 10 was 12.4 (11.4, 13.6), SJC28 ≤ 2 was 9 (8.2, 10), PtGA ≤ 2cm was 18.9 (16.1, 22), pain ≤ 2cm was 24.5 (19.4, 30.5), and fatigue ≤ 2cm was 30.4 (24.8, 31.7). For remission, the median (95% CI) time in months to CDAI ≤ 2.8 was 46.5 (42, 54.1), SJC28 ≤ 1 was 12.5 (11.4, 13.4), PtGA ≤ 1cm was 39.6 (34.6, 44.8), pain ≤ 1cm was 54.7 (43.6, 57.5) and fatigue ≤ 1cm was 42.6 (36.8, 48). Time to achieving low disease state and remission was generally significantly shorter in early RA compared with established RA with the exception of fatigue. CONCLUSION: Time to achieving low disease state or remission based on PROs was considerably longer compared with swollen joint count. Treating to a composite target in RA could lead to inappropriate changes in DMARDs.

Use of medical cannabis by patients with fibromyalgia in Canada after cannabis legalisation: a cross-sectional study.

OBJECTIVES: Medications have only small to moderate effects on symptoms in fibromyalgia (FM). Cannabinoids, including medical cannabis (MC) may have potential to fill this gap. Since recreational legalisation of cannabis in Canada, patients have easier access and may be self-medicating with cannabis. We have examined the prevalence and characteristics of MC use in FM patients. METHODS: During a two-month period (June-August 2019), consecutive attending rheumatology patients participated in an onsite survey comprising 2 questionnaires: 1) demographic and disease information completed by the rheumatologist, 2) patient anonymous questionnaire of health status, cannabis use (recreational and/or medicinal) and characteristics of use. RESULTS: In a cohort of 1000 rheumatology attendees, 117 (11.7%) were diagnosed with FM. Ever use of MC was reported by 28 (23.9%; 95%CI: 16.5%-32.7%) FM patients compared to 98 (11.1%; 95%CI: 9.1%-13.4%) non-FM patients. Among FM ever users, 17 (61%) patients continued use of MC. FM ever users vs. FM nonusers tended to be younger, 53 vs. 58 years (p=0.072), were more likely unemployed or disabled 39% vs. 17% (p=0.019) and used more medication types (p=0.013) but did not differ in symptom severity parameters. Cigarette smoking and recreational cannabis were more common in ever users. Global symptom relief on a VAS (1-10) was 7.0±2.3. CONCLUSIONS: FM patients have commonly used MC, with more than half continuing use. Reported symptom relief was substantial. Cigarette smoking and recreational cannabis use may play a facilitatory role in MC use in FM. Adjunctive MC may be a treatment consideration for some FM patients.

OUTER RETINAL TUBULATION MAY RESULT FROM FIBROSED TYPE 2 NEOVASCULARIZATION: Clinical Observations and Model of Pathogenesis.

PURPOSE: To investigate the role of Type 2 macular neovascularization with subsequent subretinal fibrosis in the pathogenesis of outer retinal tubulation (ORT). METHODS: We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients with stabilized inactive exudative macular degeneration who had been treated with intravitreal injections of antivascular endothelial growth factor agents. Baseline fluorescein and optical coherence tomography images were included. Macular neovascularizations (MNVs) were classified by type and size. Consecutive optical coherence tomography images analyzed for ORT development. RESULTS: One hundred forty-four eyes of 134 patients were included in this study. Sixty eyes presented with pure Type 1 MNV. Eighty-four eyes presented with some Type 2 component of MNV. In total, evidence of ORT is shown in 55 (38%) eyes. In the Type 1 group, 6.7% developed ORT. Outer retinal tubulation developed in 61% of eyes with some Type 2 component of the MNV. Among eyes that developed ORT, 92.7% presented with some Type 2 component. In a multivariate analysis, Type 2 membranes on optical coherence tomography (22.2 [6.1-80.8]; P < 0.001), larger MNV size {>1 DA (5.1 [1.1-24.2]; P = 0.041) and >1.5 DA (9.0 [1.8-44.0]; P = 0.007)}, and presence of subretinal fibrovascular material (3.1 [1.1-8.5]; P = < 0.03) are associated with higher odds of ORT formation. Once the ORT is formed, fibrosis was observed directly underlying the ORT on SD-optical coherence tomography in 70.9% of cases. CONCLUSION: Type 2 membranes at presentation predict ORT formation. Fibrosis often underlies ORT. This suggests that contraction of Type 2 MNV-derived fibrosis may be important in ORT formation.

Prospective observational study to evaluate the use of musculoskeletal ultrasonography in rheumatoid arthritis management: the ECHO study.

OBJECTIVES: Since the creation of the Canadian Rheumatology Ultrasonography Society, an increasing number of rheumatologists has been trained in the use of musculoskeletal US (MSUS). We compared the effectiveness of MSUS to routine care (RC) as a disease management tool in patients with moderate-to-severe RA requiring a treatment change due to lack of efficacy. The predictive value of MSUS was also assessed. METHODS: This was a prospective, two-cohort, quasi-experimental study. Patients were managed either with MSUS (within the Canadian Rheumatology Ultrasonography Society) or as per RC for up to 1 year. Main outcomes included Clinical Disease Activity Index low disease activity/remission, DAS28 low disease activity/remission, MSUS scores, patient satisfaction and perception of participation in disease management. RESULTS: A total of 383 patients were enrolled (MSUS: n = 171; RC: n = 212). At baseline, a greater proportion of MSUS patients were treated with a biologic DMARD (50.3 vs 36.8%; P = 0.008) while more patients treated per RC received a non-biologic DMARD (84.2 vs 91.5%; P = 0.027). During follow-up, a greater number of RA treatment modifications was applied in the MSUS group compared with RC [adjusted incidence rate ratio (95% CI): 1.4 (1.1, 1.8)], including steroids, non-biologic DMARDs and biologic DMARDs. Regarding clinical and patient-reported outcomes, no remarkable differences were observed between groups. However, throughout the study, 50-80% of MSUS patients in clinical remission has a MSUS synovitis score of ≥1, and 37-73% an erosion score of ≥1. Significant associations were observed between baseline synovitis and joint erosion during follow-up. CONCLUSION: MSUS assessments can be useful in detecting subclinical levels of inflammation and predicting future joint deterioration, thus allowing optimization of RA treatment and patient care.

An open-label randomized controlled trial of DMARD withdrawal in RA patients achieving therapeutic response with certolizumab pegol combined with DMARDs.

OBJECTIVES: The objective of this trial was to compare effectiveness of certolizumab pegol added to conventional synthetic DMARDs (csDMARDs) in RA patients, followed by continuing vs discontinuing background csDMARDs after treatment response. METHODS: Patients with active RA who had certolizumab pegol added to their existing csDMARD regimen due to inadequate response were eligible. At 3 or 6 months, patients who achieved a change (Δ) in DAS28 of ⩾1.2 were randomized to continue combination therapy (COMBO) or withdraw csDMARD therapy (MONO) (unblinded). The primary outcome was non-inferiority of stopping vs continuing csDMARD(s) in terms of maintaining ΔDAS28 ⩾ 1.2 or achieving DAS28 low disease activity at 18 months (non-inferiority margin: 15 percentile units). RESULTS: A total of 125 patients were enrolled, 88 randomized to COMBO (n = 43) or MONO (n = 45). No significant differences were observed between groups in baseline age, gender, race, RF status or prior biologics (16% vs 11%). Although the rate of ΔDAS28 ⩾ 1.2 and/or DAS28 low disease activity achievement at 18 months was clinically comparable between the two groups (72% vs 69%), non-inferiority assumptions were not met [absolute risk difference (upper limit of 90% CI): 2.6% (19.1%)]. Similar baseline-adjusted improvements were seen in DAS28 (COMBO vs MONO: -2.3 vs -2.1; P = 0.49) and all endpoints were not statistically different including 59% vs 56% achieved DAS28 low disease activity, 69% vs 59% ΔDAS28 ⩾ 1.2, and 41% each remission. CONCLUSION: Among RA patients achieving a therapeutic response on combination therapy with certolizumab pegol and csDMARDs, withdrawing csDMARDs was not non-inferior to maintaining csDMARDs but improvements were sustained in both groups at 18 months.

Validation of new potential targets for remission and low disease activity in psoriatic arthritis in patients treated with golimumab.

OBJECTIVES: Treat to target recommendations for PsA state that the target of treatment should be remission or, at the very least, low disease activity. Different clinical indexes have been proposed to define these disease states including the minimal disease activity criteria and the Disease Activity Index for PsA (DAPSA) scores, which have 7 and 4-5 domains, respectively. Using a Canadian cohort, the objectives were to calculate the proportion of patients achieving these criteria, their prognostic value and the overall patient impact of these disease states. METHODS: BioTRAC is an ongoing, prospective registry of inflammatory arthritis patients. 188 PsA patients treated with golimumab were included. Data collected at baseline, 6 and 12 months were used. RESULTS: Between 15.6% and 38.3% of patients achieved remission, and 37.4-77.7% achieved low disease activity at 6 and 12 months' follow-up. Patients achieving any minimal disease activity target and DAPSA low disease activity had significantly lower swollen joint count, tender joint count, psoriasis area and severity index, dactylitis and enthesitis scores compared with non-achievers (P < 0.05). Higher HAQ scores (P < 0.03) were observed in patients achieving remission with remaining dactylitis or active skin disease. CONCLUSION: Very low disease activity was the most stringent new potential target for remission in PsA. There was a high level of agreement between scores, although residual activity in dactylitis and skin despite DAPSA remission may affect patient function. Patients achieving either DAPSA endpoint, however, did not show a significant reduction in skin disease, indicating that those two criteria are more restricted to joint symptoms.

Canadian Treat-and-Extend Analysis Trial with Ranibizumab in Patients with Neovascular Age-Related Macular Disease: One-Year Results of the Randomized Canadian Treat-and-Extend Analysis Trial with Ranibizumab Study.

PURPOSE: To compare the efficacy of ranibizumab using a treat-and-extend (T&E) regimen with monthly dosing in treatment-naive patients with neovascular age-related macular degeneration (nAMD). DESIGN: Prospective, randomized, open-label, multicenter, noninferiority, postauthorization study. PARTICIPANTS: Treatment-naive patients with choroidal neovascularization secondary to AMD. METHODS: Patients with nAMD were randomized 1:1 to receive intravitreal ranibizumab at a dose of 0.5 mg in either a T&E or monthly dosing regimen. The noninferiority of T&E compared with the monthly dosing regimen was to be shown using a margin of 5 letters in best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) improvement. MAIN OUTCOME MEASURES: Mean change in BCVA in Early Treatment Diabetic Retinopathy Study letters from baseline to month 12. RESULTS: Baseline and 12-month visual acuity data are available for 526 patients (T&E, n = 268; monthly, n = 258). At baseline, mean age was 78.8 years (standard deviation [SD], 7.8 years), 60.3% were women, and 94.3% were white. No significant between-group baseline differences were observed. The primary outcome of noninferiority regarding visual acuity was met with mean BCVA improvement of 8.4 letters (SD, 11.9 letters) and 6.0 letters (SD, 11.9 letters; P = 0.017) in the T&E and monthly regimens, respectively, with a between-group mean difference of 2.38 letters (95% confidence interval, 0.32-4.45 letters). Per protocol, a secondary analysis was performed to test for superiority of number of injections received up to month 12. This analysis demonstrated significantly fewer injections with T&E versus monthly dosing (9.4 and 11.8 injections, respectively), with a mean difference of -2.46 injections (95% confidence interval, -2.68 to -2.23 injections). CONCLUSIONS: The 12-month results of this 2-year study demonstrated that regarding visual outcomes, the T&E regimen was noninferior to a monthly dosing regimen. Similar visual outcomes in the T&E group as in the monthly dosing group were achieved with significantly fewer injections.

Assessment in Work Productivity and the Relationship with Cognitive Symptoms (AtWoRC): primary analysis from a Canadian open-label study of vortioxetine in patients with major depressive disorder (MDD).

OBJECTIVE: The Assessment in Work Productivity and the Relationship with Cognitive Symptoms (AtWoRC) study aimed to assess the association between cognitive symptoms and work productivity in gainfully employed patients receiving vortioxetine for a major depressive episode (MDE). METHODS: Patients diagnosed with major depressive disorder (MDD) and treated with vortioxetine independently of study enrollment were assessed over 52 weeks at visits that emulated a real-life setting. Patients were classified as those receiving vortioxetine as the first treatment for their current MDE (first treatment) or having shown inadequate response to a previous antidepressant (switch). The primary endpoint was the correlation between changes in patient-reported cognitive symptoms (20-item Perceived Deficits Questionnaire [PDQ-D-20]) and changes in work productivity loss (Work Limitations Questionnaire [WLQ]) at week 12. Additional assessments included changes in symptom and disease severity, cognitive performance, functioning, work loss, and safety. RESULTS: In the week 12 primary analysis, 196 eligible patients at 26 Canadian sites were enrolled, received at least one treatment dose, and attended at least one postbaseline study visit. This analysis demonstrated a significant, strong correlation between PDQ-D-20 and WLQ productivity loss scores (r=0.634; p<0.001), and this correlation was significant in both first treatment and switch patients (p<0.001). A weaker correlation between Digit Symbol Substitution Test and WLQ scores was found (r=-0.244; p=0.003). CONCLUSION: At 12 weeks, improvements in cognitive dysfunction were significantly associated with improvements in workplace productivity in patients with MDD, suggesting a role for vortioxetine in functional recovery in MDD.

Autism-related deficits via dysregulated eIF4E-dependent translational control.

Hyperconnectivity of neuronal circuits due to increased synaptic protein synthesis is thought to cause autism spectrum disorders (ASDs). The mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR) is strongly implicated in ASDs by means of upstream signalling; however, downstream regulatory mechanisms are ill-defined. Here we show that knockout of the eukaryotic translation initiation factor 4E-binding protein 2 (4E-BP2)-an eIF4E repressor downstream of mTOR-or eIF4E overexpression leads to increased translation of neuroligins, which are postsynaptic proteins that are causally linked to ASDs. Mice that have the gene encoding 4E-BP2 (Eif4ebp2) knocked out exhibit an increased ratio of excitatory to inhibitory synaptic inputs and autistic-like behaviours (that is, social interaction deficits, altered communication and repetitive/stereotyped behaviours). Pharmacological inhibition of eIF4E activity or normalization of neuroligin 1, but not neuroligin 2, protein levels restores the normal excitation/inhibition ratio and rectifies the social behaviour deficits. Thus, translational control by eIF4E regulates the synthesis of neuroligins, maintaining the excitation-to-inhibition balance, and its dysregulation engenders ASD-like phenotypes.

Real-life assessment of aripiprazole monthly (Abilify Maintena) in schizophrenia: a Canadian naturalistic non-interventional prospective cohort study.

BACKGROUND: With previously established efficacy of aripiprazole once-monthly injectable formulation (AOM) in pre-registration randomized controlled trials, the current study was designed to evaluate its effectiveness in patients treated for schizophrenia in regular clinical settings in Canada. METHODS: Following their clinicians' decision to prescribe AOM, 193 patients with a diagnosis of schizophrenia, were recruited from 17 Canadian community or hospital-based settings. The primary outcome of global functioning was assessed with the Global Assessment of Functioning Scale (GAF) at 3-month intervals for 1 year. Secondary outcomes (social and occupational functioning and illness severity) and adverse drug reactions (ADR) were also assessed. RESULTS: A majority of the 169 evaluable patients were within the first 5 years of diagnosis (early phase). A linear mixed model analysis showed a significant main effect of time (Type III test p < 0.001) after adjusting for baseline GAF score, with a change in mean GAF scores from 49 at baseline to 61 at 12 months. No differences between early vs late phase were observed. Results on secondary outcome measures of function (Social and Occupational Functioning Scale) and illness severity (Clinical Global Impression-Severity Scale and Brief Psychiatric Rating Scale) were similar. Serious ADRs were observed in 29 (14.6%) patients and akathisia in 18 (9.1%) patients. At month-12, significant (≥7%) weight gain was observed in 25.7% (n = 27/105) of patients. CONCLUSIONS: Treatment with AOM is effective in improving symptoms and functioning in schizophrenia patients treated in regular clinical settings. Akathisia was infrequent while one quarter of patients gained clinically significant weight. TRIAL REGISTRATION: Unique identifier: NCT02131415 . First posted: 06 May 2014.

The use of antibiotics in the treatment of pediatric varicella patients: real-world evidence from the multi-country MARVEL study in Latin America & Europe.

BACKGROUND: Varicella is a highly contagious childhood disease. Generally benign, serious complications necessitating antibiotic use may occur. The objective of this study was to characterize the rate, appropriateness and patterns of real-world antibiotic prescribing for management of varicella-associated complications, prior to universal varicella vaccination (UVV) implementation. METHODS: Pooled, post-hoc analysis of 5 international, multicenter, retrospective chart reviews studies (Argentina, Hungary, Mexico, Peru, Poland). Inpatient and outpatient primary pediatric (1-14 years) varicella cases, diagnosed between 2009 and 2016, were eligible. Outcomes, assessed descriptively, included varicella-associated complications and antibiotic use. Three antibiotic prescribing scenarios were defined based on complication profile in chart: evidence of microbiologically confirmed bacterial infection (Scenario A); insufficient evidence confirming microbiological confirmation (Scenario B); no evidence of microbiological confirmation (Scenario C). Stratification was performed by patient status (inpatient vs. outpatient) and country. RESULTS: Four hundred one outpatients and 386 inpatients were included. Mean (SD) outpatient age was 3.6 (2.8) years; inpatient age was 3.1 (2.8) years. Male gender was predominant. Overall, 12.2% outpatients reported ≥1 infectious complication, 3.7% ≥1 bacterial infection, and 0.5% ≥1 microbiologically confirmed infection; inpatient complication rates were 78.8, 33.2 and 16.6%, respectively. Antibiotics were prescribed to 12.7% of outpatients and 68.9% of inpatients. Among users, ß-lactamases (class), and clindamycin (agent), dominated prescriptions. Scenario A was assigned to 3.9% (outpatients) vs 13.2% (inpatients); Scenario B: 2.0% vs. 6.0%; Scenario C: 94.1% vs. 80.8%. CONCLUSIONS: High rates of infectious complications and antibiotic use are reported, with low rates of microbiological confirmation suggesting possible antibiotic misuse for management of varicella complications.

Rationale, objectives and design of PURE, a prospective registry of patients with moderate to severe chronic plaque psoriasis in Canada and Latin America.

BACKGROUND: Treatment options for the management of moderate to severe plaque psoriasis include phototherapy, oral systemic agents, and biologic therapy. Secukinumab, a fully human monoclonal antibody that selectively targets IL-17A, is the first IL-17 antagonist approved for this patient population. Long-term observational data are required for establishing the true population-based benefit-risk ratio of approved treatments. PURE is a multinational registry that will assess the real-world safety and effectiveness of secukinumab and other approved therapies in the management of patients with moderate to severe psoriasis. METHODS: This is a multinational (Canadian and Latin American), prospective, observational study of adult patients with moderate to severe psoriasis that initiate treatment with secukinumab or other approved therapies as per local standard of care. A total of 2500 patients (1250 per cohort) will be recruited in the practices of hospital and community dermatologists. Decision regarding treatment must have been reached prior to and independent of patient enrollment in the study. The study includes a 5-year follow-up with recommended assessments at Baseline, 3 and 6 months post-Baseline, and every 6 months thereafter. The primary objective of the study is safety. Secondary outcome measures relate to effectiveness (Investigator's Global Assessment -IGA mod 2011-, Psoriasis Areas and Severity Index, Body Surface Area), patient reported outcomes (Dermatology Life Quality Index, Work Productivity and Activity Impairment Questionnaire, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Psoriasis Epidemiology Screening Tool, Psoriasis Symptom Diary, and Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire), and healthcare resource utilization. DISCUSSION: This is the first observational study in Canada and Latin America assessing the real-world safety and effectiveness of secukinumab in the management of moderate to severe psoriasis. The extensive clinical, patient-reported and health economic outcomes collected will allow the comprehensive evaluation of this new treatment in comparison to other approved therapies. TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02786186 ; date of registration: May 30, 2016.

Effects of common cold and concomitant administration of nasal decongestant on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of nasal glucagon in otherwise healthy participants: A randomized clinical trial.

AIMS: Nasal glucagon (NG) is a nasally-administered glucagon powder, absorbed through the nasal mucosa, designed for treatment of severe hypoglycaemia. This study evaluated the safety, pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of NG in otherwise healthy participants with common colds and after recovery from cold symptoms, with and without concomitant nasal decongestant. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This was a single-centre, open-label study. Cohort 1 participants (N = 18) received 2 doses of NG: one while experiencing nasal congestion and another after recovery from cold symptoms. Cohort 2 participants (N = 18), who also had colds with nasal congestion, received a single dose of NG 2 hours after treatment with the decongestant oxymetazoline. Total symptoms score and other safety measures were assessed before and after NG administration. RESULTS: NG was well tolerated, without serious adverse events. Common adverse events (transient lacrimation, nasal discomfort, rhinorrhea and nausea) were more frequent in both Cohorts 1 and 2 during nasal congestion. Glucagon levels peaked 18 minutes post-dose and glucose levels peaked 30 to 42 minutes post-dose in all groups. Nasal congestion, with or without concomitant nasal decongestant, did not significantly affect PK of NG. Although glucose AUECs0-t was different between Cohort 1 with nasal congestion and Cohort 2, glucose concentrations at 30 minutes appeared similar in all groups. CONCLUSIONS: There were no clinically relevant differences in safety or PK/PD of NG associated with nasal congestion or concomitant administration of nasal decongestant, suggesting that NG can be used to treat severe hypoglycaemia in individuals experiencing nasal congestion.

Treatment patterns in rheumatoid arthritis after discontinuation of methotrexate: data from the Ontario Best Practices Research Initiative (OBRI).

OBJECTIVES: In active rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients with inadequate response to methotrexate (MTX), guidelines support adding or switching to another conventional synthetic disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drug (csDMARD) and/or a biologic DMARD (bDMARD). The purpose of this analysis was to describe treatment practices in routine care and to evaluate determinants of regimen selection after MTX discontinuation. METHODS: Biologic-naïve patients in the Ontario Best Practice Research Initiatives registry discontinuing MTX due to primary/secondary failure, adverse events, or patient/physician decision were included. RESULTS: Of 313 patients discontinuing MTX, 102 (32.6%) were on MTX monotherapy, 156 (49.8%) on double, and 55 (17.6%) on multiple csDMARDs. Patients on MTX monotherapy were older than patients on double or multiple csDMARDs (p=0.013), less likely to have joint erosions (p=0.009) and had lower patient global assessment (p=0.046) at MTX discontinuation. Post-MTX discontinuation, 169 (54.0%) transitioned to, or added new DMARD(s) (new csDMARD(s): 139 [44.4%]; bDMARD: 30 [9.6%]), and 144 (46.0%) opted for no new DMARD treatment. Patients on MTX monotherapy transitioning monotherapy, whereas patients on combination csDMARDs switched more to new csDMARDs and bDMARD combination therapy. Early RA (adjOR [95%CI]: 3.07 [1.40-6.72]) and treatment with multiple csDMARDs vs. MTX monotherapy (4.15 [1.35-12.8]) at MTX discontinuation were significant predictors of transitioning to or adding new csDMARD(s)/bDMARD treatment versus opting for no new DMARD treatment. CONCLUSIONS: Differences in subsequent treatment patterns exist between patients discontinuing MTX when used as monotherapy versus in combination with other csDMARDs where the former are more likely to use a subsequent monotherapy treatment.

Varicella in Poland: economic burden in children 1-12 years of age in Poland, 2010-2015.

BACKGROUND: The safety and efficacy of live-attenuated varicella zoster virus (VZV) vaccines in preventing varicella and reducing associated morbidity and mortality in real-world have been previously shown. In Poland, VZV vaccination is only mandatory for certain high-risk individuals. Here, we have conducted an evaluation of the clinical and economic burden of varicella in Poland. METHODS: Multicenter, retrospective chart review of varicella inpatients and outpatients aged 1-12 years with a primary diagnosis between 2010 and 2015. Varicella-related outcomes included the incidence of complications, the proportion of patients reporting healthcare resource utilization (HCRU), and frequency of HCRU. Direct costs were derived from per patient resource use multiplied by unit costs, and indirect costs were calculated as loss of revenue of caregivers reporting work days missed. The overall annual cost of varicella in Poland was estimated based on the calculated direct and indirect costs per case and the estimated number of varicella cases. All costs are presented in 2015 Polish zloty (PLN) / Euros (€). RESULTS: A total of 150 children with varicella were included, of which 75 were outpatients and 75 were inpatients with a mean (± SD) age of 3.9 (±2.6) and 4.2 (±2.3) years, respectively. Complications were experienced by 14.7% of outpatients and 82.7% of inpatients, of which the most common were skin and soft tissue infections and dehydration. The rate of HCRU was as follows: over-the-counter medications (80.0% outpatients, 81.3% inpatients), prescription medications (80.0% outpatients, 93.3% inpatients), tests/procedures (0.0% outpatients, 69.3% inpatients), and allied health professional consults (0.0% outpatients, 24.0% inpatients). Total (direct and indirect) cost per varicella case was 5013.3 PLN (€ 1198.1) for inpatients and 1027.2 PLN (€ 245.5) for outpatients, resulting in an estimated overall annual (2015) cost of varicella in Poland of 178,198,320 PLN (€ 42,588,385) among children aged 1-15 years. CONCLUSIONS: Significant clinical and economic burden is associated with varicella in Poland. These results may be used to foster discussion related to the implications of implementing routine VZV vaccination in Poland.