Attitudes DriVing regional differences in LAI Antipsychotic utilization for schizophrenia among HCPs, patients, and CaregivErs (ADVANCE) Study: Patients’ Perspectives on Initial and Current Treatments

Abstract: Background: For patients with schizophrenia, long-acting injectable (LAI) antipsychotics can reduce relapse and hospitalization rates and improve adherence versus oral antipsychotics. One objective of patient interviews during the ADVANCE study was to understand changes in patients’ perspectives toward initial and current oral and LAI treatments over time. Methods: Patients with schizophrenia aged ≥18 years recruited from the United States, South Korea, Spain, Israel, Germany, China, Canada, and Australia completed 60-minute interviews. Results: Of 20 patients with schizophrenia, 18 were initially diagnosed in an inpatient setting, and 2 were diagnosed at a young age by a community psychiatrist. Initial treatments for patients were oral antipsychotics (n=17), most commonly quetiapine (n=4) or aripiprazole (n=2). Most patients (n=13) reported currently receiving LAI treatment. A wide range of antipsychotics were reported, with paliperidone LAI (n=3) most mentioned. LAIs were often first introduced by the patient’s physician (n=18) and in an inpatient setting (n=14). Eight of 11 patients with a family member or caregiver and 2 of 9 patients without a caregiver present at diagnosis accepted an initial LAI recommendation. Convenience (n=8) and fewer side effects (n=3) than oral antipsychotics were the most reported advantages of LAIs. Pain at injection site (n=4) and side effects (n=8) were the most common concerns. Current treatment goals were mostly social (n=9) or employment (n=7) goals. Conclusion: Most patients reported current LAI use and were focused on social and employment goals. Convenience and fewer side effects than oral antipsychotics were the most reported advantages of LAIs.Short Description: As a component of the ADVANCE study, 60-minute interviews were conducted with 20 patients with schizophrenia to understand changes in patients’ perspectives toward initial and current oral and long-acting injectable (LAIs) antipsychotics. Most interviewed patients were initially diagnosed in an inpatient setting and started treatment with an oral antipsychotic. Most reported current treatment with an LAI for both convenience and fewer side effects than oral antipsychotics. Patients commonly prioritized both social and employment treatment goals.Name of Sponsoring Organization(s): Teva Branded Pharmaceutical Products R&D, Inc.