The Impact of Social Networks on Enhancing Safety and Efficacy Outcomes in Low-Dose Rituximab Treatment for Central Nervous System Demyelinating Diseases

Background: In the realm of healthcare, the symbiotic relationship between social networks and medical advancements has attracted significant attention. This study aimed to explore the effectiveness and safety of this approach, with a particular focus on the role of social networks in disseminating information and shaping patient experiences.Methods: In a prospective single-arm interventional study, we examined the effects of integrating social networks – Skype and WhatsApp – to enhance the safety and efficacy outcomes of low-dose Rituximab treatment for CNS Demyelinating Diseases. Patients eligible for treatment were recruited, and ethical consent was secured. The intervention involved informative Skype groups, led by medical experts, providing education and follow-up, and WhatsApp groups for peer support and question-answer sessions. Clinical data and interaction metrics were collected to evaluate treatment outcomes and engagement levels. Results: A total of ۹۹ patients received rituximab, with ۴۲ diagnosed with RRMS, ۴۳ with SPMS, and ۱۴ with NMOSD. The treatment period ranged from ۱۲ to ۴۰ months. Among the RRMS patients, ۸ (۱۹%) experienced new attacks, while ۱۰ (۲۳%) of the SPMS patients and ۱ (۷%) of the NMOSD patients had new attacks. In cases of RRMS and NMOSD, there was a decrease in EDSS scores. Additionally, SPMS and NMOSD patients showed a decrement in serum IgG levels. Two cases of drug adverse events were reported. Mean EDSS variability had a decrease in RRMS (-۰.۳۲, P=۰.۰۶) and NMOSD (-۰.۵۷, P=۰.۰۰۴) and had a slight increase among patients with SPMS (+۰.۱۹, P=۰.۲۳).Conclusion: Recognizing the impact of social networks can lead to improved patient care and tailored support systems.