Reliability of Compendia to Update Indications and Cite References for Oncology Medications

Abstract

Specific Aims To compare information on select oncology medications across identified compendia. Each compendium will be examined for their use of reference citations for indications (Food Drug administration [FDA] approved and off-label) and dosing. Methods The compendia were accessed by researchers for immune checkpoint inhibitors (PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors) and platinum-based agents on the same day. Researchers collaborated in extracting the data from the compendia for indications (FDA approved and off-label) and dosing as well as identifying the reference citations and ratings. Main Results Micromedex cited the most references for each indication (92.2%) out of all of the compendia; however, it relied heavily on previous iterations of medication package inserts and clinical trials (91.4%). Lexicomp cited the second most references (51.8%) while using the latest medication package insert and the most double-blind studies (30%). American Hospital Formulary Services Clinical Drug Information (AHFS CDI) and Clinical Pharmacology cited the least amount of references for each indication (32.1% and 28%, respectively) and had similar usage of double-blind studies (9.7% and 9.8%). Conclusions None of the compendia contained complete citations for indications and dosing for the PD-1/PD-L1 inhibitors and platinum-based agents studied, which may lead to medication gaps for insurance-covered patients.