Abstract
In recent years, the shortage of immunoglobulin has become a serious issue worldwide. Japan is facing a similar situation, especially since 2019, due to the rapid increase in immunoglobulin usage, and the need for urgent imports is unavoidable. We analyzed two factors that immediately preceded the surge in immunoglobulin consumption: approved indications for the prevention of chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) progression and launches of concentrated preparations. Although the use of the immunoglobulin for CIDP demonstrated a continuing upward trend, there was no significant increase before or after approval. However, the launch of a concentrated preparation, 10% Venoglobulin® (Japan Blood Products Organization (JB) ), has led to shorter treatment times and changes in the form of treatment from inpatient to outpatient or home-based care, especially in patients with hypogammaglobulinemia and agammaglobulinemia (PID/SID) requiring continuous administration, which has resulted in a sharp increase in the use of the immunoglobulin. This may be because treatment needs hidden by hospitalization were unearthed with the increased availability of outpatient treatment. In the future, as companies strive to shorten treatment time, additional needs will be created for diseases that require continuous medication.
In the midst of the heated international plasma products market, careful debate is needed on how far to promote the appropriate use of immunoglobulin, how to extend approved indications, and how to adjust the quantity of demand.
