Scleroderma, also known as systemic sclerosis (SSc), is characterized by progressive vasculopathy, progressive fibrosis, and autoimmunity. While disease severity and symptoms are heterogeneous, in general, limited cutaneous SSc (lcSSc) has more dermatologic and vascular effects, diffuse cutaneous SSc (dcSSc) has additional systemic impacts, and other forms may have organ involvement but lack the dermatological hallmarks. Treatment predominately involves drug classes that are highly genericized: ACE inhibitors for renal disease, calcium channel blockers and endothelin receptor antagonists for vasculopathies, and immunosuppressants to target autoimmunity, for example. However, branded therapies that target difficult-to-treat and potentially fatal SSc manifestations have expanded treatment options (e.g., Ofev [Boehringer Ingelheim], Esbriet [Roche / Genentech], and Actemra [Roche / Genentech] for interstitial lung disease, and Adempas [Bayer HealthCare] for pulmonary arterial hypertension). This study analyzes the responses of surveyed rheumatologists to gain insight into the reasons behind their treatment decisions; we also compare the practices of Ofev prescribers and nonprescribers to determine the factors that correlate with the drug’s use.
QUESTIONS ANSWERED
CONTENT HIGHLIGHTS
Markets covered: United States
Key companies: Boehringer Ingelheim, Roche, Genentech, Bayer HealthCare
Key drugs: Ofev, Adempas, Esbriet, Actemra, immunosuppressants, PDE-5 inhibitors, ERAs, prostacyclin analogues
PRODUCT DESCRIPTION
Current Treatment: Physician Insights provides physician insights on treatment dynamics, prescribing behavior, and drivers of brand use so that marketers can create specific messaging around these treatment dynamics to more effectively increase or defend their market position.