Patient preference for a new growth hormone injection device: results of an open-label study in Japanese pediatric patients

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Growth hormone deficiency (GHD) in children is treated with daily subcutaneous injections of GH. Poor adherence, resulting in suboptimal treatment outcomes, is common due to long-term treatment. Injection devices that are considered easy to use by patients or guardians could improve adherence. OBJECTIVE: This study assessed the usability of the Norditropin FlexPro pen injector and NovoTwist needles (both Novo Nordisk A/S, Bagsvaerd, Denmark) in Japanese children and adolescents with GHD. METHODS: This open-label, uncontrolled usability test included patients aged 6 to < or = 18 years with GHD currently receiving daily injections of GH with pen injectors. Patients performed repeated injections of test medium into a foam cushion. Patients or guardians completed a questionnaire on pen handling. RESULTS: A total of 73/74 patients (99%) rated Norditropin FlexPro easy to handle, reporting no technical complaints. In total, 60 (81%) preferred Norditropin FlexPro over their current device, with 12% preferring their current device and 7% not sure. CONCLUSIONS: Norditropin FlexPro was perceived as easy to use and reliable, and was well accepted and preferred over the current device for the administration of GH in children and adolescents. Patients were more confident that Norditropin FlexPro delivered the right dose compared with their current device.