Real-world evaluation of TNF-inhibitor utilization in rheumatoid arthritis

AbstractObjectives:To evaluate 12-month treatment patterns, healthcare resource use (HCRU), and costs for patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA), following initiation of index TNF inhibitors (TNFi) and subsequent biologic DMARDs (bDMARDs).Methods:This was a retrospective cohort analysis of adults with RA newly initiating TNFi in the Truven Marketscan Commercial Claims and Encounters and Medicare Supplemental Databases during 2010–2013. A sub-group of patients who switched to a bDMARD within 12 months post-index and within 180 days of last index TNFi were subsequently evaluated over 12 months. TNFi/bDMARD treatment patterns were characterized as: continuers, no gap >180 days in prescription/administration of index TNFi; discontinuers, gap >180 days; switchers, initiated new bDMARD. Concomitant conventional synthetic DMARD use, co-morbid chronic illnesses, and RA severity were assessed. All-cause/RA-related HCRU and costs were evaluated 12 months post-index.Results:Of 9567 identified patients, 67.2%, 17.3%...