OBJECTIVES: Quantify active healthcare professional (HCP) time, patient time, HCP satisfaction and preference for natalizumab SC compared to IV in treating relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS).

METHODS: This study was conducted at seven sites: France (3), Spain (3), and United Kingdom (UK) (1). Primary endpoints were active HCP time for tasks related to preparation and administration of natalizumab, all tasks combined, and time in infusion chair. Target sample was 15 observations each of natalizumab IV and SC per site. Results were extrapolated per patient per year (13 administrations) and for the estimated population receiving natalizumab across the three countries. HCP satisfaction and preference were assessed via a study-specific questionnaire responded by 25 HCPs.

RESULTS: A total of 213 observations was collected (102 IV and 111 SC). Mean total active HCP time (minutes) per visit (and annually) was 15.83 (205.79) for IV and 9.11 (118.43) for SC (p<0.001; -42% (pooled), -29% (Spain), -48% (France), and -57% (UK)). Mean patient time (minutes) in infusion chair was 95.18 for IV and 33.45 for SC (p<0.001; -65% (pooled), -60% (Spain), -67% (France), and -69% (UK)). Considering estimated 17,180 natalizumab patients across observed countries, 3,127 eight-hour working days and 27,931 chair days could be saved if all patients switched from IV to SC. Mean satisfaction score for administration was higher for SC compared to IV (9.21 vs. 8.17; p=0.0256); no statistical difference for preparation. Seventy percent stated a preference for SC (30% no preference). Of those, 56% stated a very strong and 19% a fairly strong preference.

CONCLUSIONS: Natalizumab SC offers significant HCP and chair time savings versus IV for HCPs, patients, and the healthcare system. HCPs expressed higher satisfaction and clear preference for SC. Freed HCP time could be dedicated to other patient-care activities, whilst limited infusion chairs could be redeployed improving overall healthcare efficiency.