Review of subcutaneous interferon β-1a, delivered via the electronic self-injection device RebiSmart™, for the treatment of multiple sclerosis

Abstract

Multiple sclerosis is a chronic disease requiring lifelong treatment with disease-modifying drugs that aim to prevent relapses and slow the progression of disability. The established first-line treatments for multiple sclerosis all require regular injections, and real-world observations suggest that long-term adherence to treatment is low. Indeed, poor adherence to disease-modifying drug treatment has been associated with poorer clinical outcomes. Autoinjectors have been developed to improve the success of self-injection, whilst also making injections more comfortable for patients, with the aim of minimizing obstacles to treatment adherence. RebiSmart™ is a new electronic autoinjector for subcutaneous administration of interferon β-1a (Rebif®) that includes several unique features designed to further reduce barriers to adherence, including a dosing log and adjustable comfort settings.