Rheumatologists Continue to Prefer Enbrel and Humira as Both Their First and Second Line Biologic Agents and the Combined Formulations of Orencia as the Dominant Third Line Agent, According to a Recent BioTrends Report
BioTrends Research Group, one of the world’s leading research and advisory firms for specialized biopharmaceutical issues, finds that when rheumatologists use biologics to treat their rheumatoid arthritis (RA) patients, Enbrel (Amgen/Pfizer) with a 28% patient share, and Humira (Abbott Laboratories), with 24%, are used most often. In addition, physicians typically use these agents as first or second line biologic therapy. The findings come from the recent, report in which 103 online physician surveys were analyzed.
Since the introduction of Orencia Subcutaneous (SC; Bristol-Myers Squibb) over 10 months ago, Orencia’s total brand share grew +1 patient share point (12.6% in Q3 2012 vs. 11.6% in Q4 2011). Eighty-four percent of surveyed rheumatologists stated they have prescribed Orencia SC for their patients. Physicians perceive the main value of Orencia SC to be its SC mode of administration combined with a different mechanism of action. Interestingly, physician satisfaction is significantly higher for Orencia IV than Orencia SC and a few other biologic agents included in the study. However, physicians report the highest satisfaction with Humira and Enbrel.
Generally speaking, rheumatologists perceive the currently available biologic agents’ benefits to outweigh their risks, with physicians reporting a significantly higher benefit/risk profile for Enbrel, Humira and the Orencia brand compared to the other biologics. The two main barriers reported by surveyed physicians which prevent them from using more biologics are insurance-related issues and physicians’ desire to reserve biologics for later in the treatment algorithm. Of the four compounds in late-stage development for RA profiled in the study, three-quarters of surveyed physicians were most interested in tofacitinib (Pfizer), the new JAK inhibitor, which the FDA will provide a decision about its approval on November 21.
is a syndicated quarterly report series that examines current trends in the management of RA from the perspective of rheumatologists with a focus on analyzing their attitudes, perceptions, and self-reported prescribing behavior. In addition, this report provides insight into practice patterns, and current and projected use of various products. TreatmentTrends also evaluates perceived product advantages and disadvantages, as well as sales and messaging efforts of key market players. The Q3 2012 wave was fielded with rheumatologists in the U.S. in July – August 2012 via an on-line survey. A parallel annual report covering the European market (EU5) will be available in November 2012.
In addition to the report BioTrends has a full complement of reports focusing on RA treatment in the United States: and(1 month, 3 months, 6 months and 1 year post-launch).
BioTrends Research Group provides syndicated and custom primary market research to pharmaceutical manufacturers competing in clinically evolving, specialty pharmaceutical markets. For information on BioTrends publications and research capabilities, please contact us at (610) 321-9400 or . BioTrends is a Decision Resources Group company.
Decision Resources Group is a cohesive portfolio of companies that offers best-in-class, high-value information and insights on important sectors of the healthcare industry. Clients rely on this analysis and data to make informed decisions. Please visit Decision Resources Group at .