Prefilled syringes for immunoglobulin G (IgG) replacement therapy: clinical experience from other disease settings.

INTRODUCTION

Ready-to-use prefilled syringes for drug delivery are increasingly used across a broad spectrum of clinical specialties. For patients with primary immunodeficiencies manifesting as antibody deficiencies, immunoglobulin G (IgG) replacement therapy (IgRT) by subcutaneous administration is an established treatment modality. Expanding IgRT administration options through the introduction of prefilled syringes may further improve its utility.

AREAS COVERED

Here, we collate experience with prefilled syringes from other clinical settings to inform on their practicality and suitability for IgRT. In addition to discussing drug characteristics such as stability, pharmacokinetics, and efficacy, we focus on treatment delivery, physician/patient experience, costs, and the importance of education for the use of prefilled syringes.

EXPERT OPINION

Perceived benefits of prefilled syringes include accurate dosing, sterility, and reduced treatment time, while offering patients greater choice, convenience, and ease-of-use. Our review of clinical experience with prefilled syringes supports this consensus. Relatively few studies directly compare prefilled syringes with conventional administration, and robust studies of cost-effectiveness and health-related quality of life are needed on a drug-by-drug basis. Growth in the availability of prefilled syringes will continue, encouraged by the importance of patient choice and treatment convenience, toward the goal of individualized treatment regimens and improved quality of life.