Continued Use of Disease-Modifying Therapy During Pregnancy May Reduce Hospitalization 

Results of a study from AllianceRx Walgreens Prime showed individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) who are pregnant typically reduce use of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). A significant number, however, continue treatment with high adherence levels (proportion of days covered [PDC] ≥.80). The average nonmaternity medical costs for those who continued use of DMTs was significantly lower compared with those who discontinued DMTs or were nonadherent to treatment. 

Records of 603 individuals prescribed DMTs for MS who used maternity services within a 2-year period were evaluated. Use of pregnancy-related health care services was begun by82.7% in year 1, and 79% of these individuals discontinued use of DMTs for MS into the second year of the study. Only 9 % of those who used pregnancy-related services continued and were at least 80% adherent to treatment for both years and over half (54%) did not continue DMTs with full adherence in both years. Among individuals who both used pregnancy-related health care services and remained fully adherent to treatment with DMTs continuously, adjusted medical costs were lower than those who were consistently nonadherent participants (-$4,383, P<.002) or had mixed adherence (-$2.951, P<.04).

Kathleen Love, clinical program manager at AllianceRx Walgreens Prime, and an author of the study, says pregnancy among individuals with MS make up a significant patient population. "When it comes to pregnancy or thinking of becoming pregnant, a key discussion on the risks and benefits of DMT therapy must take place between the patient and provider."

Researchers wanted to understand how nonadherence their DMTs would impact healthcare cost and utilization over a 2-year period. The results of the study suggest for women continuing their DMT throughout pregnancy, hospitalization costs and use were lower, compared to those who discontinued their therapy. The retrospective study was conducted by Walgreens, in collaboration with AllianceRx Walgreens Prime, a leading specialty and home delivery pharmacy.