Objective: Obtain patient feedback on experiences initiating and using continuous subcutaneous apomorphine infusion (CSAI).

Background: Previously reported data from the ongoing InfusON study demonstrated that treatment with CSAI consistently and meaningfully reduced OFF-time and improved Good ON-time (without troublesome dyskinesia) and was generally safe and well-tolerated over a 52-Week Maintenance Period.

Method: The InfusON study (NCT02339064), conducted in the U.S., enrolled levodopa-treated patients with PD whose control of motor fluctuations was unsatisfactory despite oral medication optimization. CSAI was initiated in an outpatient clinic with a 1-2 mg bolus followed by 1 mg/h infusion titrated to optimal efficacy and tolerability (not to exceed 8 mg/h or 150 mg/day). Patients then entered a 52-week Maintenance Period. A patient experience survey was conducted with 19 consenting patients (from 9 sites) who had completed the Maintenance Period and entered a study Extension Period that provided an avenue for continued therapy until commercial availability.

Results: Survey responses indicated that 63% of patients were able to independently set up and start CSAI therapy, while the rest had help from their care partner. Respondents developed confidence with setting up the infusion and wearing the device quickly, with 79% being comfortable setting up the infusion and 68% adapting to wearing the device within about 2 weeks. Once they were used to wearing the device, only 16% of patients reported it to be uncomfortable, though this did not lead to discontinuation of use. While a majority (74%) of patients initially required longer than 10 minutes to set up the infusion, once they adjusted to the process, most (89%) were able to complete set-up in about 5 to 10 minutes. Though patients reported alternating infusion sites on the body, the most frequently used locations were the abdomen and upper arms/shoulders. Overall, 95% of patients would recommend CSAI to other individuals needing treatment for PD motor fluctuations.

Conclusion: Patient experience is a key driver of how long individuals will stay on therapy. Results from this experiential survey showed that patients can adapt quickly to using the CSAI device and easily incorporate it into their daily routine. Most patients said they would recommend CSAI to other persons living with PD.

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MDS Abstracts - https://www.mdsabstracts.org/abstract/patient-experiences-initiating-continuous-subcutaneous-apomorphine-infusion-csai-an-interview-based-survey-of-infuson-study-participants/