Prescribing Patterns and Safety of Biologics in Immune-Mediated Rheumatic Diseases: Karnataka Biologics Cohort Study Group Experience

Abstract

Introduction: Biologics are widely used in Autoimmune rheumatologic diseases (AIRDs), however the need to capture real life data which monitors indications, adverse reactions cannot be over emphasized.Methods: This is a cross-sectional ambidirectional multi-center study conducted over 8 months from January 2016 to August 2016, across 12 tertiary care rheumatology centers in Karnataka, India conducted by members of the Karnataka Rheumatology Association.Results: The most common biologic prescribed is tumour necrosis factor antagonist etanercept.Commonest indication for biologics being Spondyloarthropathy group of disorders.The most common cause for stopping biologics is clinical improvement.Only 4.8% of patents discontinued biologics due to ADRs. Conclusion:The prescribing patterns, mode of use, prebiologics screening methods, and adverse event profile are similar across centres.Pre-screening for latent tuberculosis (TB) is consistent across centres, and TB prophylaxis appears to be effective in preventing its reactivation.