Abstract
Background
Systemic corticosteroids (SCS) are commonly used but are associated with adverse effects. Given their prevalent use, the potential impact of SCS use on health-related quality of life (HRQoL) is important to characterize.
Objective
To assess the HRQoL of patients taking SCS.
Methods
The 2000–2003 Medical Expenditure Panel Survey was used to examine EQ-5D and SF-6D scores associated with SCS use in adults. The study sample was restricted to those with a condition for which SCS are prescribed. SCS use was categorized into three levels: none; 1–3; and ≥4 prescriptions per year. HRQoL scores were regressed on SCS use (1–3 or ≥4 annual prescriptions) controlling for age, gender, race, ethnicity, education, income category, geographic region, number of ER visits, number of outpatient visits, total number of chronic conditions (for which SCS are not used) and conditions for which SCS are clinically indicated.
Results
There were 54,856 individuals with no SCS exposure, 2245 with 1–3 and 624 with ≥4 annual SCS prescriptions. In adjusted analyses, use of ≥4 annual SCS prescriptions appeared to be associated with significantly lower EQ-5D (US), EQ-5D (UK), SF-6D and EQ-5D VAS scores compared to no exposure: −0.032, −0.047, −0.036, and −7.58.
Conclusion
While SCS are efficacious and widely used for numerous conditions, results suggest that their use may be associated with a substantial deleterious impact on HRQoL. This potential negative effect should be considered in balance with the cost and efficacy of comparable treatments.
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Funding
This study was funded by a research grant from Amgen, Inc.
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Dr. Sullivan has received research grants from Amgen, Inc. Dr. Globe is an employee and stockholder of Amgen, Inc. Dr. Ghushchyan declares that he has no conflict of interest. Dr. Sucher declares that he has no conflict of interest.
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This article does not contain any studies with human participants or animals performed by any of the authors.
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Sullivan, P.W., Ghushchyan, V.H., Globe, G. et al. Health-related quality of life associated with systemic corticosteroids. Qual Life Res 26, 1037–1058 (2017). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11136-016-1435-y
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11136-016-1435-y