Disease-Modifying Therapy in Multiple Sclerosis: Evaluation of Patients Satisfaction in Iranian Multiple Sclerosis Population

BACKGROUND: Medication satisfaction is a patient-reported outcome which could show medication adherence. The aim of this study was to determine Iranian MS patients’ satisfaction with Disease Modifying Therapies (DMTs). METHODS: A standardized questionnaire was developed using Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (TSQM). The online link was released on IMSS (Iranian Multiple Sclerosis Society) social media channel, accessible to 4272 MS patients totally. RESULTS: Three hundred and ninety-four patients participated in our survey with 324 females, 70 males and an F/M ratio of 4.6:1. The most frequent DMTs used were interferon-beta (IFNβ) followed by rituximab. The mean effectiveness and global satisfaction scores were significantly higher for injectable DMTs, while the convenience score was significantly higher for oral DMTs. Mean effectiveness and side-effect scores were significantly higher in the Tysabri group and convenience score was significantly higher in the fingolimod group while global satisfaction was higher in the IFNβ group. CONCLUSION: The global satisfaction and effectiveness were significantly higher with injectable DMTs while the convenience score was significantly higher with oral DMTs.