Satisfaction, fulfillment of expectations and adherence to subcutaneous biological drugs in patients with rheumatoid arthritis: ARCO study

Objectives In the ARCO study, adherence to subcutaneous biological agents by patients with rheumatoid arthritis improved with monthly administration. We assess whether adherence can be related to fulfilment of expectations and satisfaction with treatment. Patients and methods Adherence was assessed by calculating the Medication Possession Ratio, and satisfaction and fulfilment of expectations using the EXPRESAR group questionnaire. Results In 346 patients, those who were satisfied/very satisfied with efficacy and tolerability were ≥80% and 64.4%, with no differences between weekly, biweekly or monthly administration regimens. Regarding the fulfilment of expectations, 59.9% considered the effect of the treatment greater than expected and 52.6% reported lower/much lower than expected discomfort; the latter percentage was higher in patients with monthly administration (P = .049). The percentages for nonadherence were 15.6% (discomfort greater than expected), 18.5% (expected discomfort) and 11.1% (lower than expected or no discomfort) (P = .189). Conclusions Satisfaction and fulfilment of expectations were high. Fulfilment of expectations of tolerability was better with monthly administration, which could contribute to better adherence.