Degarelix administration technique optimisation: Consensus findings of an international Delphi nurse panel

What steps involved in degarelix (Firmagon®, Ferring Pharmaceuticals) administration and patient care do specialist nurses consider most important to reduce the risk of associated injection site reactions, are there any variations materials used support optimal technique? Degarelix is a GnRH antagonist indicated for first-line treatment advanced prostate cancer that effectively suppresses testosterone production testes without an initial surge possible subsequent disease flare—both typical features with agonists. However, reactions can occur after subcutaneous degarelix, which unpleasant patients may represent limiting factor its use by healthcare professionals. The objective this study was reach consensus on key minimise reaction risk. Injection have been several published studies; they usually transient, mild-to-moderate, mainly dose. Information prevention limited, one research group suggesting method contribute risk, another describing specific techniques strategies developed Canadian physicians aiming prevent reactions. An online pre-meeting survey regarding conducted gather insights from 11 international nurses. Survey results supported development 25 best practice statements in-person Delphi meeting (Warsaw, Poland), attended 15 Statements focused reconstitution, care. Participants voted anonymously collated responses were discussed each voting round understand if could be achieved. If no reached first round, up two more rounds considered. Consensus defined as “agreement” or “disagreement” ≥75% nurses, ≤15% having opposite opinion. In survey, reported observed third treated injection, all agreed technique was, some degree, related reactions; variety being guidance. study, 5 9 reconstitution 14 16 care, considered This confirmed country-specific highlighted pivotal potentially Importantly, optimisation holds potential occurrence such (“yes,” 45%; “possibly,” 55%; “no,” 0%). findings should along other available guidance help degarelix.