RebiSmart™ (version 1.5) device for multiple sclerosis treatment delivery and adherence

Abstract

Introduction: First-line disease-modifying drugs for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS) are mostly administered by injection. Although these treatments can control the symptoms and progression of the disease to some extent, patients often fail to adhere to their therapy in the long term, so may not obtain the maximum clinical benefits. As injection-related problems are common barriers to adherence, autoinjectors have been developed to improve the ease and convenience of self-injection.

Areas covered: This article discusses RebiSmart^™, an electronic autoinjector for the subcutaneous administration of interferon β-1a, focusing on the device features and data from clinical trials of the device. An overview of other available autoinjectors for first-line MS therapies is provided for context.

Expert opinion: The device is the first electronic autoinjector for use in MS and offers several innovative features, including adjustable injection settings and an electronic dosing log, which may improve adherence. The dosing log can be reviewed with the patient, allowing the physician to open a dialogue to discuss possible issues with treatment adherence. The use of multidose cartridges also provides a softer impact on the environment and easier disposal. The hidden needle helps avoid needle phobia and reduces the risk of needle stick injury.

Keywords::

• adherence
• disease-modifying drug
• electronic autoinjection device
• interferon β-1a
• multiple sclerosis

Declaration of interest

A Lugaresi has been an advisory board member for Biogen Idec, Merck Serono, and Bayer Schering; has received travel grants and honoraria from Bayer Schering, Biogen Dompé, Biogen Idec, Merck Serono, Novartis, Sanofi-Aventis, and Teva; has received research grants from Bayer Schering, Biogen Dompé, Biogen Idec, Merck Serono, Novartis, Sanofi-Aventis, and Teva; has received travel and research grants from the Associazione Italiana Sclerosi Multipla; and is a consultant for “Fondazione Cesare Serono”. The author thanks Sharon Gladwin of Caudex Medical, Oxford, UK (supported by Merck Serono S.A. – Geneva, Switzerland, a branch of Merck Serono S.A., Coinsins, Switzerland, an affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany), for assistance in the preparation of the manuscript. This manuscript was reviewed by Merck Serono for the limited purpose of providing complete and balanced medical/scientific information and to ensure that the publication is objective and scientifically/medically accurate. The views and opinions described herein do not necessarily reflect those of Merck Serono.

Notes

This box summarizes key points contained in the article.