Assessment of patient satisfaction with ebastine fast-dissolving tablets in patients suffering from allergic rhinitis. Issue 3 (May 2009)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Roger, Albert; Fortea, Josep; Plazas, M Joséé; Mora, Sheila; Artéés, Maite
• Is Part Of: Therapy. Volume 6:Issue 3(2008)
• Page Start: 407
• Page End: 415
• Publication Date: 2009-05
• Subjects: allergic rhinitis -- ebastine -- fast-dissolving tablet -- patient satisfaction -- Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication; Therapeutics -- Periodicals; Chemotherapy -- Periodicals; 615.505
• DOI: 10.2217/thy.09.4
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1475-0708

Abstract

Objective: The aim of this study was to assess patient satisfaction with ebastine fast-dissolving tablets (FDT) using the Treatment Satisfaction Questionnaire for Medication (TSQM).Research, design and methods: This was an international, multicenter, observational study involving patients with at least 1-year history of intermittent allergic rhinitis or persistent allergic rhinitis and who had received a prescription for ebastine FDT (20 mg) in the last 2 months. Investigators collected demographic data, medical history, a completed TSQM questionnaire, and responses regarding perception of onset of action, intensity of rhinitis symptoms, tolerability and their preference compared with previous therapy.Results: Validated TSQM questionnaires were collected from 461 patients and the overall ratings for effectiveness, side effects, convenience and global satisfaction were all very high for ebastine FDT. A total of 79% of patients reported a fast or very fast onset of action. On the last day of treatment patients reported a statistically significant (p < 0.001) improvement in the intensity and relief of symptoms of allergic rhinitis. A total of 95% of patients reported good or very good tolerability with ebastine FDT. Compared with the patient''s experience with previous therapy, ebastine FDT was considered better or much better for: efficacy (81%), tolerability (73%), onset of action (79%) and convenience (94%). A total of 94% of patients indicated that they would like to use ebastine FDT again.Conclusion: Ebastine FDT was associated with a very high satisfaction rate and significant relief of rhinitis symptoms and, consequently, patients reported a preference for the FDT formulation over previous antihistamines that they had used.