Preference for Inebilizumab Home Infusion Among People with Neuromyelitis Optica Spectrum Disorder

Objective To determine whether people with neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) prefer to receive inebilizumab infusions at home versus in an infusion center or hospital, and to assess how that choice affects their quality of life. Background Recently, inebilizumab was approved for treating NMOSD and demonstrated a low risk of infusion reactions. In this study, we collected data on patients’ preferences for home infusions of inebilizumab and its impact on their quality of life. Design/Methods This was an observational study of 9 patients with a diagnosis of NMOSD confirmed by a positive AQP4 antibody test. Participants completed a preference survey and the short-form quality of life (SF-36) questionnaire at baseline, and at 1 week after the first and second home infusions. Descriptive statistics for the baseline characteristics were calculated and a linear regression analysis was conducted to identify whether the first or second home infusion was associated with statistically significant improvements or declines in these subdomains. Results Nine AQP4+ NMOSD patients met the inclusion criteria, with an average age of 60 ± 12 years (8 females, 1 male). Post-home infusion data showed that 8 out of 9 patients preferred home, felt “very safe” and that it was “much more convenient.” Lastly, all 9 participants strongly preferred future infusions to be at home. Although no significant difference was noted, 2 SF-36 subdomains are highlighted. Physical functioning demonstrated a slight improvement, with a 7.7 increase (95% CI:-21.9-37.5. p = 0.59) following the first home infusion and 3.3 increase (95% CI:-26.4-33.0, p = 0.82) after the second. Also, social functioning showed a slight improvement throughout the home infusion period, reflecting an increase score of 4.2 (95% CI:-26.5-34.9, p = 0.78) after the first infusion and 0 (95% CI:-30.7-30.6, p = 1.00) after the second. Conclusion Results suggest that home infusion may be a feasible and preferred option among patients who use inebilizumab to manage their NMOSD, potentially improving their quality of life.