Examining the effects of comorbidities on disease-modifying therapy use in multiple sclerosis.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Comorbidities are common in multiple sclerosis (MS) and adversely affect health outcomes. However, the effect of comorbidity on treatment decisions in MS remains unknown. We aimed to examine the effects of comorbidity on initiation of injectable disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) and on the choice of the initial DMT in MS.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective observational analysis using population-based health administrative and linked clinical databases in 3 Canadian provinces. MS cases were defined as any individual with ≥3 diagnostic codes for MS. Cohort entry (index date) was the first recorded demyelinating disease-related claim. The outcomes included choice of initial first-line DMTs and time to initiating a DMT. Logistic and Cox regression models were used

SUBMITTER: Zhang T 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4826339 | biostudies-literature | 2016 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature