Baseline Demographics, Comorbidities, Treatment Patterns and Burden of Atopic Dermatitis in Adults and Adolescents from the GLOBOSTAD Long-Term Observational Study.

INTRODUCTION: Insights into real-world treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD) are relevant to clinical decision making. The aim of this analysis was to characterize patients who receive dupilumab for AD in a real-world setting. METHODS: The GLOBOSTAD registry is an ongoing, longitudinal, prospective, observational study of patients with AD who receive dupilumab according to country-specific prescribing information. We report baseline characteristics, comorbidities and treatment patterns for patients enrolled from July 11, 2019 to March 31, 2022. Analyses are descriptive; no formal statistical comparisons were performed. RESULTS: Nine hundred fifty-two adults and adolescents were enrolled in GLOBOSTAD. Patients had a high disease burden before starting dupilumab: (mean [standard deviation]) percent body surface area affected (44.8 [24.42]), Eczema Area and Severity Index total score (24.8 [12.95]), SCORing Atopic Dermatitis total score (60.5 [16.34]), Patient-Oriented Eczema Measure total score (19.7 [6.37]) and Dermatology Life Quality Index total score (13.7 [7.02]). Overall, 741 (77.8%) patients reported ≥ 1 type 2 inflammatory comorbidities, most frequently allergic rhinitis (492 [51.7%]), asthma (323 [33.9%]), food allergy (294 [30.9%]) or another allergy (274 [28.8%]). In the previous 12 months, 310 (32.6%) patients had received systemic non-steroidal immunosuppressants and 169 (17.8%) systemic corticosteroids; 449 (47.2%) had received topical corticosteroids, most commonly potent topical corticosteroids; 141 (14.8%) had received topical calcineurin inhibitors and 32 (3.4%) ultraviolet therapy. Most (713 [74.9%]) patients started dupilumab because of prior treatment failure. CONCLUSION: Patients enrolled in GLOBOSTAD demonstrated considerable multidimensional burden of disease across AD signs, symptoms and quality of life despite previous use of systemic and non-systemic AD treatments. CLINICAL TRIAL REGISTRATION: ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT03992417. Video Abstract.

Dupilumab significantly improves sleep in adults with atopic dermatitis: results from the 12-week placebo-controlled period of the 24-week phase IV randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled DUPISTAD study.

BACKGROUND: Sleep disturbance is a prominent symptom of atopic dermatitis (AD) and can result in insomnia, daytime fatigue, drowsiness, reduced productivity and impaired quality of life (QoL). OBJECTIVES: The Dupilumab Effect on Sleep in AD Patients (DUPISTAD) phase IV randomized double-blinded placebo-controlled study evaluated the impact of dupilumab treatment on sleep and other patient- and physician-reported outcomes. METHODS: Adults with moderate-to-severe AD were randomized 2 : 1 to dupilumab 300 mg once every 2 weeks (q2w) or placebo for 12 weeks; concomitant topical corticosteroids were permitted. Patients subsequently entered an open-label phase and received dupilumab 300 mg q2w for a further 12 weeks. The primary endpoint was the percentage change in sleep quality from baseline to week 12, assessed using a novel numeric rating scale (NRS). Secondary and exploratory endpoints included percentage change in peak pruritus NRS (PP NRS), change in SCORing Atopic Dermatitis (SCORAD), SCORAD sleep visual analogue scale (VAS), Eczema Area and Severity Index, Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System (PROMIS) sleep-related impairment T-score and the Epworth Sleepiness Scale. Sleep diary and wrist actigraphy measurements were recorded throughout the study. RESULTS: In total, 127 patients received dupilumab and 61 patients received placebo. Demographic and baseline disease characteristics were balanced between groups. Sleep quality NRS significantly improved in patients treated with dupilumab by week 12 vs. placebo [least squares mean of the difference (LSMD) -15.5%, P < 0.001]. PP NRS (LSMD -27.9%, P < 0.001), SCORAD (LSMD -15.1, P < 0.001), SCORAD sleep VAS (LSMD -2.1, P < 0.001) and PROMIS T-score (LSMD -3.6, P < 0.001) were also significantly improved at week 12 with dupilumab vs. placebo. The overall percentage of patients reporting treatment-emergent adverse events was lower in the dupilumab group (56.7%) than in the placebo group (67.2%). CONCLUSIONS: Dupilumab significantly improved sleep quality and perception of sleep continuity, itch, metrics of AD severity and QoL in adults with moderate-to-severe AD, with an acceptable safety profile compared with placebo.

A fractional-order mathematical model based on vaccinated and infected compartments of SARS-CoV-2 with a real case study during the last stages of the epidemiological event.

In 2020 the world faced with a pandemic spread that affected almost everything of humans' social and health life. Regulations to decrease the epidemiological spread and studies to produce the vaccine of SARS-CoV-2 were on one side a hope to return back to the regular life, but on the other side there were also notable criticism about the vaccines itself. In this study, we established a fractional order differential equations system incorporating the vaccinated and re-infected compartments to a S I R frame to consider the expanded and detailed form as an S V I I v R model. We considered in the model some essential parameters, such as the protection rate of the vaccines, the vaccination rate, and the vaccine's lost efficacy after a certain period. We obtained the local stability of the disease-free and co-existing equilibrium points under specific conditions using the Routh-Hurwitz Criterion and the global stability in using a suitable Lyapunov function. For the numerical solutions we applied the Euler's method. The data for the simulations were taken from the World Health Organization (WHO) to illustrate numerically some scenarios that happened.

Laboratory safety of dupilumab for up to 3 years in adults with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis: results from an open-label extension study.

BACKGROUND: Most systemic agents used for moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (AD) may lead to adverse events requiring routine laboratory monitoring, increasing patient burden and possibly decreasing treatment adherence. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate clinical laboratory findings in adults with moderate-to-severe AD treated with dupilumab up to 3 years. METHODS: LIBERTY AD OLE (NCT01949311) was a phase 3, multicenter, open-label extension study in adults with moderate-to-severe AD receiving dupilumab 300 mg weekly. RESULTS: 2,677 patients were treated up to 3 years. No clinically meaningful changes in mean hematology/serum chemistry parameters from baseline were observed. Few laboratory abnormalities were reported as treatment-emergent adverse events. Serious events included one event each of thrombocytopenia, hematuria, and hemolytic anemia, all unrelated to treatment. Abnormalities leading to treatment withdrawal included thrombocytopenia (one patient), increased hepatic enzymes (two patients), and blood creatine phosphokinase increased (one patient). No patients had Grade 3 anemia or Grade 3/4 thrombocytopenia; one patient had Grade 3 neutropenia (Week 100); two patients had Grade 3 eosinophilia (baseline visit); no eosinophil abnormalities were associated with clinically symptomatic events/permanent treatment discontinuation. CONCLUSION: Dupilumab treatment of adults with moderate-to-severe AD up to 3 years showed no clinically meaningful changes in mean laboratory parameters, supporting continuous long-term use without laboratory monitoring. CLINICALTRIALS.GOV IDENTIFIER: NCT01949311.

Enhanced ethanol sensing properties of WO3 modified TiO2 nanorods.

Pristine and WO3 decorated TiO2 nanorods (NRs) were synthesised to investigate n-n-type heterojunction gas sensing properties. TiO2 NRs were fabricated via hydrothermal method on fluorine-doped tin oxide coated glass (FTO) substrates. Then, tungsten was sputtered on the TiO2 NRs and thermally oxidised to obtain WO3 nanoparticles. The heterostructure was characterised by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) spectroscopy. Fabricated sensor devices were exposed to VOCs such as toluene, xylene, acetone and ethanol, and humidity at different operation temperatures. Experimental results demonstrated that the heterostructure has better sensor response toward ethanol at 200 °C. Enhanced sensing properties are attributed to the heterojunction formation by decorating TiO2 NRs with WO3.

Disease burden and treatment history among adults with atopic dermatitis receiving systemic therapy: baseline characteristics of participants on the EUROSTAD prospective observational study.

BACKGROUND: Insights into the real-world treatment paradigm and long-term burden of atopic dermatitis (AD) are needed to inform clinical and health policy decisions. METHODS: The prospective, observational EUROSTAD study enrolled adults with moderate-to-severe AD starting or switching systemic therapy (51 sites in 10 European countries). We report the baseline characteristics, treatment patterns, and outcomes of these patients using descriptive statistics. RESULTS: A 12-month enrollment period of EUROSTAD was completed and 308 patients were enrolled: average age 37 years, AD duration 25 years, 43% were female. Most patients reported use of systemic therapy (93%) and ≥1 atopic comorbidity (82%). Mean [standard deviation] disease severity/burden measures were high: Investigator's Global Assessment (3.1 [0.8]), Eczema Area and Severity Index (16.2 [10.9]), Peak Pruritus Numerical Rating Scale (5.5 [2.5]), sleep impairment Visual Analog Scale (49.8 [31.6]) scores, and time lost from work (4.1 [13.7] days/year) or usual activities (16.8 [38.7] days/year). Most patients showed borderline or clinical levels of anxiety (59%) and/or depression (63%) using the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. CONCLUSIONS: Adults with moderate-to-severe AD starting/switching systemic treatment enrolled in EUROSTAD have a high burden of longstanding disease despite continuous use of topical drugs, emollients, and systemic therapies.

Protocol for a prospective, observational, longitudinal study in paediatric patients with moderate-to-severe atopic dermatitis (PEDISTAD): study objectives, design and methodology.

INTRODUCTION: Atopic dermatitis (AD) is a chronic inflammatory skin disease often associated with atopic comorbidities and has significant impact on children and their families. There is a lack of robust and longitudinal long-term data on disease characteristics and typical clinical practice with currently available treatments in children with moderate-to-severe AD. Hence, an observational study is needed to evaluate AD characteristics and progression in paediatric patients with moderate-to-severe AD. METHODS AND ANALYSIS: Pediatric Study in Atopic Dermatitis (PEDISTAD) is a prospective, observational, longitudinal study in paediatric patients with moderate-to-severe AD who are currently receiving systemic or topical treatment and whose disease is not adequately controlled by topical prescription therapies or for whom those therapies are not medically advisable. 1300 children at 100-150 sites in approximately 20 countries worldwide will be enrolled and followed for 5 years. AD therapy is at the discretion of the investigator. Data collected will include: AD disease characteristics and comorbidities; current therapy for AD and initiation of new treatments/changes in current treatment; patient-reported/caregiver-reported outcomes; days missed from school/work for the patient/caregiver; healthcare professional visits; safety and biomarkers. ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION: This study is conducted in accordance with the principles established by the 18th World Medical Assembly and all subsequent amendments and the guidelines for Good Epidemiology Practice. Each individual country assures that ethics approval has been received and local regulatory requirements are met. Ethics approval has been obtained in all countries currently participating in PEDISTAD. Study data will be disseminated in manuscripts submitted to peer-reviewed medical journals as well as in abstracts submitted to congresses and in the resulting posters and presentations. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER: NCT03687359; pre-results.

Vibrational Fingerprinting of Defects Sites in Thin Films of Zeolitic Imidazolate Frameworks.

Surface-mounted metal-organic frameworks (SURMOFs) are crystalline films of MOFs and have garnered a great deal of attention in the past years. So far, thin-film MOF research has been mainly focused on the synthesis and the exploration of potential applications of these materials, while a detailed understanding of their growth is still lacking. In this report evidence is provided for the inter-grown nature of surface-mounted thin films of Zn-ZIF-8 (SURZIF-8; ZIF=zeolitic imidazolate framework). Two distinct SURZIF-8 thin films have been made through layer-by-layer (LBL) growth after applying 20 and 50 LBL cycles. They have been characterized with atomic force microscopy (AFM) and Raman micro-spectroscopy. A detailed analysis of the Raman mapping data, inter alia using principal component analysis (PCA), revealed the existence of phase boundaries within the 20-cycle thin film, while the 50-cycle thin film is chemically more homogeneous. To further analyze these chemical heterogeneities, density functional theory (DFT) calculations were performed of three theoretical models providing spectroscopic fingerprints of the molecular vibrations associated with the Zn-ZIF-8 thin films. Based on these calculations and the experimental data distinct vibrational markers indicative for the presence of defects sites were identified.

Label-Free QCM Immunosensor for the Detection of Ochratoxin A.

Ochratoxin A (OTA) is a potent mycotoxin that poses a risk in food and feed moieties and subject to worldwide regulation. Laboratory-based analytical methods are traditionally employed for reliable OTA quantification, but these methods cannot provide rapid and on-site analysis, where biosensors fill this gap. In this study a label-free quartz crystal microbalance (QCM)-based immunosensor for the detection of OTA, which is one of the most important small molecule contaminants, was developed by direct immobilization of OTA to amine-bearing sensor surfaces using 1-ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide (EDC)/N-Hydroxysuccinimide (NHS) chemistry. The protein-free sensor surface enabled regeneration of sensor surface with 50 mM NaOH and 1% SDS up to 13 times without loss of performance, which would disrupt a protein-containing sensor surface. We developed a QCM immunosensor using the developed sensor surface with a 17.2-200 ng/mL detection range which can be used for on-site detection of feedstuffs.

Gas Sensing Properties of p-Co3O4/n-TiO2 Nanotube Heterostructures.

In this paper, we fabricated p-Co3O4/n-TiO2 heterostructures and investigated their gas sensing properties. The structural and morphological characterization were performed by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis (XPS). The electrical properties of the heterostructure were studied within the temperature range from 293 K to 423 K. Changes in electrical properties and sensing behavior against reducing and oxidizing gases were attributed to the formation of p-n heterojunctions at the Co3O4 and TiO2 interface. In comparison with sensing performed with pristine TiO2 nanotubes (NTs), a significant improvement in H2 sensing at 200 °C was observed, while the sensing response against NO2 decreased for the heterostructures. Additionally, a response against toluene gas, in contrast to pristine TiO2 NTs, appeared in the Co3O4/TiO2 heterostructure samples.

Decoding Nucleation and Growth of Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework Thin Films with Atomic Force Microscopy and Vibrational Spectroscopy.

The synthesis of metal-organic framework (MOF) thin films has garnered significant attention during the past decade. By better understanding the parameters governing the nucleation and growth of such thin films, their properties can be rationally tuned, empowering their application as (reactive) membranes. Here, a combined AFM-vibrational spectroscopy research strategy is employed to detail the chemistries governing the nucleation and growth of zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF) thin films, in particular isostructural Co-ZIF-67 and Zn-ZIF-8. First, a single step direct synthesis approach is used to investigate the influence of different synthesis parameters -metal/linker ratio, temperature, and metal type- on the thin film nucleation and growth behaviour. While the metal/linker ratio has a pronounced effect on the thin film nucleation rate, the temperature mainly influences the growth kinetics of nuclei forming the thin film. In addition, the nucleation and growth of ZIF thin films is shown to be highly dependent on the electronegativity of the metal type. Thin-film thickness control can be achieved by using a multistep synthesis strategy, implying repetitive applications of single step deposition under identical synthesis conditions, for which a growth mechanism is proposed. This study provides insight into the influence of synthesis parameters on the ZIF thin film properties, using tools at hand to rationally tune MOF thin film properties.

Enhanced Photoresponse of FeS2 Films: The Role of Marcasite-Pyrite Phase Junctions.

The beneficial role of marcasite in iron-sulfide-based photo-electrochemical applications is reported for the first time. A spectacular improvement of the photoresponse observed experimentally for mixed pyrite/marcasite-FeS2 films can be ascribed to the presence of p/m phase junctions at the interface. Density functional theory calculations show that the band alignment at the phase boundary contributes to enhanced charge separation and transfer across the interface.

Label Free QCM Immunobiosensor for AFB1 Detection Using Monoclonal IgA Antibody as Recognition Element.

This study introduces the use of an IgA isotype aflatoxin (AF) specific monoclonal antibody for the development of a highly sensitive Quartz Crystal Microbalance (QCM) immunobiosensor for the detection of AF in inhibitory immunoassay format. The higher molecular weight of IgA antibodies proved an advantage over commonly used IgG antibodies in label free immunobiosensor measurements. IgA and IgG antibodies with similar affinity for AF were used in the comparative studies. Sensor surface was prepared by covalent immobilization of AFB1, using self assembled monolayer (SAM) formed on gold coated Quartz Crystal, with 1-Ethyl-3-(3-dimethylaminopropyl) carbodiimide/N-hydroxy succinimide (EDC/NHS) method using a diamine linker. Nonspecific binding to the surface was decreased by minimizing the duration of EDC/NHS activation. Sensor surface was chemically blocked after AF immobilization without any need for protein blocking. This protein free sensor chip endured harsh solutions with strong ionic detergent at high pH, which is required for the regeneration of the high affinity antibody-antigen interaction. According to the obtained results, the detection range with IgA antibodies was higher than IgG antibodies in QCM immunosensor developed for AFB1.

Treatment patterns and costs for anti-TNFα biologic therapy in patients with psoriatic arthritis.

BACKGROUND: Real-world data regarding anti-tumor necrosis factor alpha (anti-TNFα) biologic therapy use in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) are limited; therefore, we described treatment patterns and costs of anti-TNFα therapy in PsA patients in the United States. METHODS: PsA patients (N = 990) aged ≥18 years who initiated anti-TNFα therapy were selected from MarketScan claims databases (10/1/2009 to 9/30/2010). Number of patients on first- (n = 881), second- (n = 72), or third- or greater (n = 37) line of anti-TNFα therapy, persistence, time-to-switch or modification, pharmacy and medical costs (measured per patient per month [PPPM]) for each line of therapy were observed during the 3-year follow-up. RESULTS: PsA patients receiving only one line of anti-TNFα therapy remained on first-line for ~17 months while those who switched to second- or third- or greater persisted on first-line for ~11 to 12 months, respectively. Time to first-line modification was longer for patients who switched to third- or greater line therapy (7 months) than those who did not switch or switched to second-line (range, ~2 to 4 months). Time-to-switch and time to first-line modification was progressively shorter with each line of therapy for patients who received third- or greater line. PPPM medical costs were higher for patients who did not switch ($322) than those who switched to second- ($167) or third- or greater ($217) line. PPPM pharmacy costs were greater for patients with third- or greater line therapy ($2539) than those who did not switch ($1985) or switched to second-line ($2045). CONCLUSION: While the majority of patients received only one line of anti-TNFα therapy, a subset of patients switched to multiple lines of therapy during the 3-year follow-up period. Persistence and therapy modifications differed between these patients and those receiving only one line. Overall medical costs were highest for patients who did not switch, and pharmacy costs increased as patients switched to each new line of therapy.

Effect of zoledronic acid on serum calcium in Paget's disease patients after educational strategies to improve calcium and vitamin D supplementation.

OBJECTIVE: Bisphosphonates are the most effective therapeutic agents in patients with Paget's disease of bone. As a result of their inhibition of osteoclastic activity, hypocalcemia of variable frequency and severity following intravenous bisphosphonate therapy has been reported. The present study assessed the effect of physician and patient education on adequate supplementation of calcium and vitamin D to reduce the potential risk of developing hypocalcemia following infusion of 5 mg zoledronic acid. METHODS: This was an open-label, multicenter, controlled registry trial in which patients with Paget's disease were treated with a single intravenous infusion of zoledronic acid. Physicians were provided with educational materials focusing on optimization of calcium and vitamin D supplementation following zoledronic infusion that they used to educate their patients. The primary safety variable was the percentage of patients with serum calcium level <2.07mmol/l 9-11 days after zoledronic acid infusion. RESULTS: A total of 75 patients were evaluable in the post dose hypocalcemia safety analysis. Of these, only 1 patient had treatment-emergent hypocalcemia, with a serum calcium level of 1.92 mmol/l 4 days following therapy. Hypocalcemia-related symptoms were not reported in this patient and the serum calcium returned to normal range at 2.17 mmol/l within 1 week on oral calcium supplementation. CONCLUSIONS: These results suggest that, with optimization of calcium and vitamin D supplementation by physician and patient education, hypocalcemia is an infrequent occurrence following zoledronic acid infusion.

Interferon therapy in rheumatic diseases: state-of-the-art 2010.

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: Interferons are natural glycoproteins that have antiviral, antiproliferative and immune regulatory functions. They are not only involved in the pathogenesis of certain autoimmune conditions but are also useful in the treatment of some rheumatologic disorders, notably Behçet's syndrome. RECENT FINDINGS: Interferon alpha (IFNalpha) has been recommended for severe eye involvement in Behçet's syndrome, especially when there is a significant drop in visual acuity and/or retinal involvement. It can induce a high rate of complete remission that may also persist after its discontinuation. When given early at the beginning, interferon might be effective in ameliorating the attacks of familial Mediterranean fever resistant to colchicine treatment. The combination of PEGylated IFNalpha with ribavirin and rituximab emerges as a novel and promising treatment providing complete clinical response and viral clearance in hepatitis C virus-associated mixed cryoglobulinemia. Limited data also suggest that interferon may induce remissions in Churg-Strauss patients who fail to respond to conventional immunosuppressive treatment. SUMMARY: Among several rheumatologic diseases, IFNalpha has found more widespread use in Behçet's syndrome and hepatitis C virus-associated mixed cryoglobulinemia despite a paucity of formal studies. Patients should be carefully monitored for the frequent and dose-dependent adverse effects.

Volatile organic compounds sensing properties of tetrakis(alkylthio)-substituted lutetium(III) bisphthalocyanines thin films.

The effect of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) such as acetone, methanol, ethanol, chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, dichloromethane, and hexane on electrical conductivity of thin films of bis[tetrakis(alkylthio)phthalocyaninato]lutetium(III) double decker complexes [(C(n)H(2n+1)S)(4)Pc](2)Lu(III) was investigated. The [(C(n)H(2n+1)S)(4)Pc](2)Lu(III) molecules substituted with different alkylthia chains (n=6, 8, 10, 12, and 16) were coated on interdigital transducers using a jet spray technique. A change (increase or decrease) in the conductivity of the [(C(n)H(2n+1)S)(4)Pc](2)Lu(III) films was observed depending on the concentration of the VOCs, which was ranging from 500 to 5000 ppm. The decrease in the conductivity of the sensors for the dissolvent of the compounds (chloroform, carbon tetrachloride, dichloromethane and hexane) could be related to swelling of the films. On the other hand, the increase in the conductivity of the sensors for the other VOCs (acetone, methanol and ethanol) could be resulted from that the VOCs act as electron donors and/or acceptors in the films. A linear relationship between the sensor response and concentration of the VOC vapors is obtained. The sensitivities of the [(C(n)H(2n+1)S)(4)Pc](2)Lu(III) films were in the range of 2.10(-4)-3.10(-3)%/ppm.

Evaluation of a fast wastewater odour characterisation procedure using a chemical sensor array.

Sewage treatment works are one of the major sources that cause atmospheric odour pollution. The increase in the number of complaints about odour nuisance is due to the increase in environmental concerns. Unfortunately, the legislation on odour nuisance from sewage treatment works is very limited. In order to determine suitable thresholds on which to base legal standards, reliable and efficient odour measurement methods need to be defined. A chemical sensor array was developed for the purpose of measuring wastewater odour. This paper describes the development of the chemical sensor system which is specifically tuned to odours of wastewater origin and which can give an electronic measure of the wastewater odours. Odour emissions from a wastewater treatment facility were detected by using a quartz crystal microbalance (QCM) sensor array. The array consists of nine sensor elements, which were coated with different materials. In this paper, the usage of these novel instruments in the water industry was shown.

Adherence to and gastrointestinal tolerability of monthly oral or quarterly intravenous ibandronate therapy in women with previous intolerance to oral bisphosphonates: a 12-month, open-label, prospective evaluation.

BACKGROUND: Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and high dosing frequency have been cited as reasons for inadequate adherence to daily or weekly oral bisphosphonate therapy. Inadequate adherence may lead to poor therapeutic outcomes. OBJECTIVE: The PRIOR study evaluated adherence to and GI tolerability of monthly therapy with oral and quarterly intravenous ibandronate in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis or osteopenia. METHODS: This 12-month, multicenter, prospective, nonrandomized, open-label, noninferiority study included postmenopausal women with osteoporosis or osteopenia who had discontinued previous daily or weekly oral bisphosphonate therapy because of GI intolerance. Participants chose to receive either monthly oral ibandronate 150 mg or quarterly intravenous ibandronate 3 mg and were permitted to switch formulations once during the study. For oral treatment, adherence was assessed based on doses taken, as recorded on the case-report form; for intravenous treatment, adherence was assessed based on doses administered, as recorded by study site personnel. Participants who took >or=75% of protocol-specified doses were considered adherent. The rate of adherence to oral ibandronate was protocol defined as noninferior to that of intravenous ibandronate if the upper limit of the 2-sided 90% CI for the adjusted difference in adherence rates was >20%. At screening, participants assessed the tolerability of their previous bisphosphonate therapy using the GI Experience Survey; using the same instrument, they assessed the tolerability of ibandronate 1 month from baseline and at months 4, 7, and 10. RESULTS: Of 543 participants in the intent-to-treat population, 147 (27.1%) chose to receive oral treatment and 396 (72.9%) chose to receive intravenous treatment. The mean age of participants was approximately 66 years in both groups, and >90% of participants were white. A significantly greater proportion of participants who selected intravenous versus oral treatment had a primary diagnosis of osteoporosis (72.2% vs 57.1%, respectively; P<0.001) and a history of fracture as an adult (35.6% vs 22.4%; P >or= 0.004); significantly fewer recipients of intravenous versus oral ibandronate were currently working (29.0% vs 39.5%; P >or= 0.021). Overall, 82.9% of participants had previously received alendronate and 44.9% had previously received risedronate. Eleven participants switched from oral to intravenous therapy and 16 switched from intravenous to oral therapy during the study. In the perprotocol population, 69.7% of participants in the oral group (101/145) and 82.9% of participants in the intravenous group (325/392) were adherent to their originally selected therapy. Adherence to oral therapy fell within the prespecified boundary for noninferiority to intravenous therapy (adjusted difference: 12.4%; 90% CI, 5.1-19.7). Mean GI tolerance scores were significantly improved from screening at all subsequent assessment times in both treatment groups (P < 0.001); >75% of participants had a >or=10% increase in GI tolerability scores from screening. Both dosing regimens were generally well tolerated. CONCLUSION: Self-selected monthly oral or quarterly intravenous ibandronate therapy was associated with high adherence rates among these postmenopausal women with osteoporosis or osteopenia who had previously discontinued oral bisphosphonate treatment because of GI intolerance.

Efficacy and safety profile of treatment with etoricoxib 120 mg once daily compared with indomethacin 50 mg three times daily in acute gout: a randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy and safety of etoricoxib and indomethacin in the treatment of patients with acute gout. METHODS: A randomized, double-blind, active-comparator study was conducted at 42 sites. A total of 189 men and women (> or =18 years of age) who were experiencing an acute attack (< or =48 hours) of clinically diagnosed gout were treated for 8 days with etoricoxib, 120 mg/day (n = 103), or indomethacin, 50 mg 3 times a day (n = 86). The primary efficacy end point was the patient's assessment of pain in the study joint (0-4-point Likert scale) over days 2-5. Safety was assessed by adverse experiences (AEs) occurring during the trial. RESULTS: Etoricoxib demonstrated clinical efficacy comparable to that of indomethacin in terms of the patient's assessment of pain in the study joint. The difference in the mean change from baseline over days 2-5 was -0.08 (95% confidence interval -0.29, 0.13) (P = 0.46), which fell within the prespecified comparability bounds of -0.5 to 0.5. Secondary end points over the 8-day study, including the onset of efficacy, reduction in signs of inflammation, and patient's and investigator's global assessments of response to therapy, confirmed the comparable efficacy of the two treatments. The etoricoxib-treated patients had a numerically lower incidence of AEs (43.7%) than did the indomethacin-treated patients (57.0%) and a significantly lower incidence of drug-related AEs (16.5% versus 37.2%; P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Etoricoxib at a dosage of 120 mg once daily was confirmed to be an effective treatment for acute gout. Etoricoxib was comparable in efficacy to indomethacin at a dosage of 50 mg 3 times daily, and it was generally safe and well tolerated.