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Smets I, Versteegh M, Huygens S, Wokke B, Smolders J. Benefits of early highly effective versus escalation treatment strategies in relapsing multiple sclerosis estimated using a treatment-sequence model. Mult Scler 2024; 30:1016-1025. [PMID: 38859625 PMCID: PMC11290018 DOI: 10.1177/13524585241258692] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2023] [Revised: 03/07/2024] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 06/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Uncertainty about disproportionate impact on health care budgets limits implementation of early highly effective treatment (EHT) in multiple sclerosis (MS). OBJECTIVE To estimate cost-effectiveness of escalation versus EHT disease-modifying treatment (DMT) sequences. METHODS Using a health-economic approach, we analysed health benefits (relapse rate reduction, disability prevention), direct/indirect DMT and societal costs of escalation versus EHT DMT sequences. In scenario analyses, we allowed (1) earlier use of alemtuzumab (ALE) and (2) a single retreatment with cladribine (CLA). RESULTS In our model, we showed that the ratio between costs and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) for the most cost-effective EHT and escalation sequence results into a similar net health benefit with higher costs and also higher QALYs associated with an EHT versus escalation strategy. Earlier use of ALE is more cost-effective than in later lines, even when aggravating the impact of its side-effects tenfold. Retreatment with CLA was more cost-effective in both escalation and EHT sequences. CONCLUSIONS Certain EHT sequences are equally cost-effective to escalation sequences and are likely to result in more health at uncertain additional costs. The favourable cost-benefit ratio of CLA and ALE suggests that a wider application of affordable highly effective therapies could promote the cost-effectiveness both EHT and escalation approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ide Smets
- MS Center ErasMS, Department of Neurology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Beatrijs Wokke
- MS Center ErasMS, Department of Neurology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Joost Smolders
- MS Center ErasMS, Department of Neurology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- MS Center ErasMS, Department of Immunology, Erasmus University Medical Center, Rotterdam, The Netherlands
- Neuroimmunology Research Group, Netherlands Institute for Neuroscience, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
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Rodríguez-Sánchez B, Daugbjerg S, Peña-Longobardo LM, Oliva-Moreno J, Aranda-Reneo I, Cicchetti A, López-Bastida J. Does the inclusion of societal costs change the economic evaluations recommendations? A systematic review for multiple sclerosis disease. THE EUROPEAN JOURNAL OF HEALTH ECONOMICS : HEPAC : HEALTH ECONOMICS IN PREVENTION AND CARE 2023; 24:247-277. [PMID: 35596098 PMCID: PMC9985586 DOI: 10.1007/s10198-022-01471-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 04/19/2022] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis imposes a heavy burden on the person who suffers from it and on the relatives, due to the caregiving load involved. The objective was to analyse whether the inclusion of social costs in economic evaluations of multiple sclerosis-related interventions changed results and/or conclusions. METHODS A systematic review was launched using Medline and the Cost-Effectiveness Analysis Registry of Tufts University (2000-2019). Included studies should: (1) be an original study published in a scientific journal, (2) be an economic evaluation of any multiple sclerosis-related intervention, (3) include productivity losses and/or informal care costs (social costs), (4) be written in English, (5) use quality-adjusted life years as outcome, and (6) separate the results according to the perspective applied. RESULTS Twenty-nine articles were selected, resulting in 67 economic evaluation estimations. Social costs were included in 47% of the studies. Productivity losses were assessed in 90% of the estimations (the human capital approach was the most frequently used method), whereas informal care costs were included in nearly two-thirds of the estimations (applying the opportunity and the replacement-cost methods equally). The inclusion of social costs modified the figures for incremental costs in 15 estimations, leading to a change in the conclusions in 10 estimations, 6 of them changing from not recommended from the healthcare perspective to implemented from the societal perspective. The inclusion of social costs also altered the results from cost-effective to dominant in five additional estimations. CONCLUSIONS The inclusion of social costs affected the results/conclusions in multiple sclerosis-related interventions, helping to identify the most appropriate interventions for reducing its economic burden from a broader perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- B Rodríguez-Sánchez
- Department of Applied Economics, Public Economics and Political Economy, University Complutense of Madrid, Pl. Menéndez Pelayo 4, 28040, Madrid, Spain
| | - S Daugbjerg
- Graduate School of Health Economics and Management (Alta Scuola Di Economia E Management Dei Sistemi Sanitari), Universitá Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - L M Peña-Longobardo
- Economic Analysis and Finance Department, Faculty of Law and Social Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071, Toledo, Spain
| | - J Oliva-Moreno
- Economic Analysis and Finance Department, Faculty of Law and Social Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, 45071, Toledo, Spain
| | - I Aranda-Reneo
- Economic Analysis and Finance Department, Faculty of Social Sciences, University of Castilla-La Mancha, Avda. Real Fábrica de Seda s/n, 45600, Talavera de la Reina, Toledo, Spain.
| | - A Cicchetti
- Graduate School of Health Economics and Management (Alta Scuola Di Economia E Management Dei Sistemi Sanitari), Universitá Cattolica del Sacro Cuore, Rome, Italy
| | - J López-Bastida
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Universidad Castilla-La Mancha, 45600, Talavera de la Reina, Toledo, Spain
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Ginestal R, Rubio-Terrés C, Morán OD, Rubio-Rodríguez D, Los Santos HD, Ordoñez C, Sánchez-Magro I. Cost-effectiveness of cladribine tablets and dimethyl fumarate in the treatment of relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis in Spain. J Comp Eff Res 2023; 12:e220193. [PMID: 36705064 PMCID: PMC10288949 DOI: 10.2217/cer-2022-0193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Accepted: 12/19/2022] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
Aim: To analyze the cost-effectiveness of treatment of relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) with cladribine tablets (CladT) and dimethyl fumarate (DMF) from the perspective of the Spanish National Health System (NHS). Methods: A probabilistic Markov model (second-order Monte Carlo simulation) with a 10-year time horizon and annual Markov cycles was performed. Results: CladT was the dominant treatment, with lower costs (-74,741 € [95% CI: -67,247; -85,661 €]) and greater effectiveness (0.1920 [95% CI: -0.1659; 0.2173] QALY) per patient, compared with DMF. CladT had a 95.1% probability of being cost-effective and a 94.1% chance of being dominant compared with DMF. Conclusion: CladT is the dominant treatment (lower costs, with more QALYs) compared with DMF in the treatment of RRMS in Spain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo Ginestal
- Hospital Clínico San Carlos, Neurology Department, C/ Prof Martín Lagos, 28040 Madrid, Spain
| | | | - Olga Durán Morán
- Merck, SLU, C/ María de Molina, 40, 28006 Madrid, Spain, an affiliate of Merck KGaA
| | | | - Heidi De Los Santos
- Merck, SLU, C/ María de Molina, 40, 28006 Madrid, Spain, an affiliate of Merck KGaA
| | - Cristina Ordoñez
- Merck, SLU, C/ María de Molina, 40, 28006 Madrid, Spain, an affiliate of Merck KGaA
| | - Isabel Sánchez-Magro
- Merck, SLU, C/ María de Molina, 40, 28006 Madrid, Spain, an affiliate of Merck KGaA
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Baharnoori M, Bhan V, Clift F, Thomas K, Mouallif S, Adlard N, Cooney P, Blanchette F, Patel BP, Grima D. Cost-Effectiveness Analysis of Ofatumumab for the Treatment of Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis in Canada. PHARMACOECONOMICS - OPEN 2022; 6:859-870. [PMID: 36107307 PMCID: PMC9596641 DOI: 10.1007/s41669-022-00363-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 08/07/2022] [Indexed: 05/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Ofatumumab is a high-efficacy disease-modifying therapy (DMT) approved for first-line treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) in Canada. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost effectiveness of ofatumumab from a Canadian healthcare system perspective. METHODS A Markov cohort model was run over 65 years using annual cycles, 1.5% annual discount rate, and 100% treatment discontinuation at 10 years. The British Columbia database informed natural history transition probabilities. Treatment efficacy for DMTs were sourced from a network meta-analysis. Clinical trial data were used to estimate probabilities for treatment-related adverse events. Health utilities and costs were obtained from Canadian sources (if available) and the literature. RESULTS Among first-line indicated therapies for RRMS, ofatumumab was dominant (more effective, lower costs) over teriflunomide, interferons, dimethyl fumarate, and ocrelizumab. Compared with glatiramer acetate and best supportive care, ofatumumab resulted in incremental cost-effectiveness ratios (ICERs) of $24,189 Canadian dollars per quality-adjusted life-year (QALY) and $28,014/QALY, respectively. At a willingness-to-pay threshold of $50,000/QALY, ofatumumab had a 64.3% probability of being cost effective. Among second-line therapies (scenario analysis), ofatumumab dominated natalizumab and fingolimod and resulted in an ICER of $50,969 versus cladribine. CONCLUSIONS Ofatumumab is cost effective against all comparators and dominant against all currently approved and reimbursed first-line DMTs for RRMS, except glatiramer acetate.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Virender Bhan
- Department of Medicine, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Fraser Clift
- Department of Neurology, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John's, NL, Canada
| | | | - Soukaïna Mouallif
- Novartis Canada Inc., 385, boulevard Bouchard, Dorval, QC, H9S 1A9, Canada.
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Matni M, Yamout B, Koussa S, Khamis C, Fleifel L, Sharifi S, Mohamed O. Economic evaluation of cladribine tablets in high disease activity (HDA) relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) patients in Lebanon. Mult Scler Relat Disord 2022; 67:104169. [PMID: 36150262 DOI: 10.1016/j.msard.2022.104169] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2021] [Revised: 08/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cladribine tablets are a newly launched short course oral treatment approved for high disease activity (HDA) relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS). The current analysis assessed the cost-utility and budgetary impact of introducing cladribine tablets in HDA-RMS patients compared with other HDA-RMS therapies in Lebanon. METHODS The global cost-utility and budget impact models were adapted from Lebanese National Social Security Fund (NSSF) perspective. The data for the models' adaptation were retrieved from the literature and validated by Lebanese experts. The comparators considered in the cost-utility model were alemtuzumab, fingolimod, and natalizumab while budget impact analysis additionally considered dimethyl fumarate. A sensitivity analysis was also performed to assess the uncertainty in the analysis. RESULTS The cost-utility results showed that cladribine tablets are an economically dominant therapeutic strategy (i.e., less costly and better quality-adjusted life year [QALY]) compared to all comparators. The cost saving was driven by drug acquisition, administration, and monitoring costs; while incremental QALY gain was driven by differences in delayed Expanded Disability Status Scale progression. Sensitivity analysis showed that cladribine tablets have a high probability (99.3-100%) of being dominant at a threshold of 22,000 United States Dollars (approximately three times of gross domestic product) per QALY gained against different comparators. The budget impact analysis showed that the introduction of cladribine tablets would result in 5.0% to 21.5% savings in the overall budget over a period of five years. CONCLUSIONS Cladribine tablets are a cost-effective and a budget-saving treatment option for the treatment of HDA-RMS patients in Lebanon from the NSSF perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mirna Matni
- National Social Security Funds, Beirut, Lebanon
| | - Bassem Yamout
- American University of Beirut Medical Center, Beirut, Lebanon
| | | | | | - Lora Fleifel
- Merck Serono Middle East FZ-Ltd, An Affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany.
| | - Shahdak Sharifi
- Merck Serono Middle East FZ-Ltd, An Affiliate of Merck KGaA, Darmstadt, Germany
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Spelman T, Herring WL, Zhang Y, Tempest M, Pearson I, Freudensprung U, Acosta C, Dort T, Hyde R, Havrdova E, Horakova D, Trojano M, De Luca G, Lugaresi A, Izquierdo G, Grammond P, Duquette P, Alroughani R, Pucci E, Granella F, Lechner-Scott J, Sola P, Ferraro D, Grand'Maison F, Terzi M, Rozsa C, Boz C, Hupperts R, Van Pesch V, Oreja-Guevara C, van der Walt A, Jokubaitis VG, Kalincik T, Butzkueven H. Comparative Effectiveness and Cost-Effectiveness of Natalizumab and Fingolimod in Patients with Inadequate Response to Disease-Modifying Therapies in Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis in the United Kingdom. PHARMACOECONOMICS 2022; 40:323-339. [PMID: 34921350 PMCID: PMC8866337 DOI: 10.1007/s40273-021-01106-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 10/12/2021] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Patients with highly active relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis inadequately responding to first-line therapies (interferon-based therapies, glatiramer acetate, dimethyl fumarate, and teriflunomide, known collectively as "BRACETD") often switch to natalizumab or fingolimod. OBJECTIVE The aim was to estimate the comparative effectiveness of switching to natalizumab or fingolimod or within BRACETD using real-world data and to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of switching to natalizumab versus fingolimod using a United Kingdom (UK) third-party payer perspective. METHODS Real-world data were obtained from MSBase for patients relapsing on BRACETD in the year before switching to natalizumab or fingolimod or within BRACETD. Three-way-multinomial-propensity-score-matched cohorts were identified, and comparisons between treatment groups were conducted for annualised relapse rate (ARR) and 6-month-confirmed disability worsening (CDW6M) and improvement (CDI6M). Results were applied in a cost-effectiveness model over a lifetime horizon using a published Markov structure with health states based on the Expanded Disability Status Scale. Other model parameters were obtained from the UK MS Survey 2015, published literature, and publicly available UK sources. RESULTS The MSBase analysis found a significant reduction in ARR (rate ratio [RR] = 0.64; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.57-0.72; p < 0.001) and an increase in CDI6M (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.67; 95% CI 1.30-2.15; p < 0.001) for switching to natalizumab compared with BRACETD. For switching to fingolimod, the reduction in ARR (RR = 0.91; 95% CI 0.81-1.03; p = 0.133) and increase in CDI6M (HR = 1.30; 95% CI 0.99-1.72; p = 0.058) compared with BRACETD were not significant. Switching to natalizumab was associated with a significant reduction in ARR (RR = 0.70; 95% CI 0.62-0.79; p < 0.001) and an increase in CDI6M (HR = 1.28; 95% CI 1.01-1.62; p = 0.040) compared to switching to fingolimod. No evidence of difference in CDW6M was found between treatment groups. Natalizumab dominated (higher quality-adjusted life-years [QALYs] and lower costs) fingolimod in the base-case cost-effectiveness analysis (0.453 higher QALYs and £20,843 lower costs per patient). Results were consistent across sensitivity analyses. CONCLUSIONS This novel real-world analysis suggests a clinical benefit for therapy escalation to natalizumab versus fingolimod based on comparative effectiveness results, translating to higher QALYs and lower costs for UK patients inadequately responding to BRACETD.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy Spelman
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School Alfred Hospital, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | | | - Yuanhui Zhang
- RTI Health Solutions, Research Triangle Park, NC, USA
| | | | | | | | - Carlos Acosta
- Value and Market Access, Biogen International GmbH, Neuhofstrasse 30, 6340, Baar, Switzerland.
| | - Thibaut Dort
- Value and Market Access, Biogen International GmbH, Neuhofstrasse 30, 6340, Baar, Switzerland
| | | | - Eva Havrdova
- Department of Neurology and Centre of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, General University Hospital and Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Dana Horakova
- Department of Neurology and Centre of Clinical Neuroscience, First Faculty of Medicine, General University Hospital and Charles University, Prague, Czech Republic
| | - Maria Trojano
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Neuroscience and Sense Organs, University of Bari, Bari, Italy
| | - Giovanna De Luca
- Multiple Sclerosis Centre, Neurology Unit, SS Annunziata Hospital, University "G. d'Annunzio", Chieti-Pescara, Italy
| | - Alessandra Lugaresi
- IRCCS Istituto delle Scienze Neurologiche di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
- Dipartimento di Scienze Biomediche e Neuromotorie, Università di Bologna, Bologna, Italy
| | | | - Pierre Grammond
- Centre de Réadaptation Déficience Physique Chaudière-Appalache, Lévis, Canada
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Patrizia Sola
- Azienda Ospedaliero Universitaria Policlinico/OCB, Neurology Unit, Modena, Italy
| | - Diana Ferraro
- Department of Biomedical, Metabolic and Neurosciences, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, Modena, Italy
| | | | | | - Csilla Rozsa
- Jahn Ferenc Teaching Hospital, Budapest, Hungary
| | - Cavit Boz
- Karadeniz Technical University, Trabzon, Turkey
| | | | | | | | - Anneke van der Walt
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School Alfred Hospital, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Vilija G Jokubaitis
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School Alfred Hospital, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| | - Tomas Kalincik
- CORe, Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, Australia
- MS Centre, Royal Melbourne Hospital, Melbourne, Australia
| | - Helmut Butzkueven
- Department of Neuroscience, Central Clinical School Alfred Hospital, Monash University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
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An Innovative Approach to Modelling the Optimal Treatment Sequence for Patients with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis: Implementation, Validation, and Impact of the Decision-Making Approach. Adv Ther 2022; 39:892-908. [PMID: 34796464 PMCID: PMC8866358 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-021-01975-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 10/26/2021] [Indexed: 10/24/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION An innovative computational model was developed to address challenges regarding the evaluation of treatment sequences in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) through the concept of a 'virtual' physician who observes and assesses patients over time. We describe the implementation and validation of the model, then apply this framework as a case study to determine the impact of different decision-making approaches on the optimal sequence of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) and associated outcomes. METHODS A patient-level discrete event simulation (DES) was used to model heterogeneity in disease trajectories and outcomes. The evaluation of DMT options was implemented through a Markov model representing the patient's disease; outcomes included lifetime costs and quality of life. The DES and Markov models underwent internal and external validation. Analyses of the optimal treatment sequence for each patient were based on several decision-making criteria. These treatment sequences were compared to current treatment guidelines. RESULTS Internal validation indicated that model outcomes for natural history were consistent with the input parameters used to inform the model. Costs and quality of life outcomes were successfully validated against published reference models. Whereas each decision-making criterion generated a different optimal treatment sequence, cladribine tablets were the only DMT common to all treatment sequences. By choosing treatments on the basis of minimising disease progression or number of relapses, it was possible to improve on current treatment guidelines; however, these treatment sequences were more costly. Maximising cost-effectiveness resulted in the lowest costs but was also associated with the worst outcomes. CONCLUSIONS The model was robust in generating outcomes consistent with published models and studies. It was also able to identify optimal treatment sequences based on different decision criteria. This innovative modelling framework has the potential to simulate individual patient trajectories in the current treatment landscape and may be useful for treatment switching and treatment positioning decisions in RRMS.
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Rezaee M, Morowvat MH, Poursadeghfard M, Radgoudarzi A, Keshavarz K. Cost-effectiveness analysis of rituximab versus natalizumab in patients with relapsing remitting multiple sclerosis. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:118. [PMID: 35090438 PMCID: PMC8796500 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-07495-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2021] [Accepted: 01/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disease in which the myelin sheaths of the nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord, which are responsible for communication, are destroyed and cause physical signs and symptoms. According to studies, anti-CD20 monoclonal antibodies have significant results in the treatment of this disease. Thus, the aim of the present study was to determine the cost-effectiveness of rituximab against natalizumab in the patients with RRMS in southern Iran in 2020. Methods This is an economic evaluation including cost-effectiveness analysis in which the Markov model with a lifetime horizon was used. The study sample consisted of 120 patients randomly selected from among those referred to the MS Association and the Special Diseases Unit of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences. In this study, the costs were collected from a societal perspective, and the outcomes were obtained in the form of Quality Adjusted Life Years (QALY) and the mean relapse rate. The TreeAge pro 2020 and Excel 2016 software were used for data analysis. Results The comparative study of rituximab and natalizumab showed that the patients receiving rituximab had lower costs ($ 58,307.93 vs. $ 354,174.85) and more QALYs (7.77 vs. 7.65). In addition, the incidence of relapse by rituximab was lower compared to natalizumab (1.15 vs. 2.57). The probabilistic one-way sensitivity analysis showed the robustness of the results. The scatter plots also showed that rituximab was more cost-effective for the patients in 100% of the simulations for the threshold of < $ 37,641. Discussion and conclusion According to the results of this study, rituximab had higher cost-effectiveness than natalizumab. Therefore, it could be a priority for RRMS patients compared to natalizumab because it reduced treatment costs and increased effectiveness.
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Wiyani A, Badgujar L, Khurana V, Adlard N. How have Economic Evaluations in Relapsing Multiple Sclerosis Evolved Over Time? A Systematic Literature Review. Neurol Ther 2021; 10:557-583. [PMID: 34279847 PMCID: PMC8571458 DOI: 10.1007/s40120-021-00264-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/06/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The introduction of disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) over the last two decades has prompted the economic assessments of these treatments by reimbursement authorities. The aim of this systematic literature review was to evaluate the modeling approach and data sources used in economic evaluations of DMTs for RMS, identify differences and similarities, and explore how economic evaluation models have evolved over time. METHODS MEDLINE®, Embase®, and EBM Reviews databases were searched using Ovid® Platform from database inception on 25 December 2019 and subsequently updated on 17 February 2021. In addition, health technology assessment agency websites, key conference proceedings, and gray literature from relevant websites were screened. The quality of included studies was assessed using the Drummond and Philips checklists. RESULTS A total 155 publications and 30 Health Technology Assessment (HTA) reports were included. Most of these were cost-utility analysis (73 studies and 25 HTA reports) and funded by medicines manufacturers (n = 65). The top three countries where studies were conducted were the USA (n = 29), the UK (n = 16), and Spain (n = 10). Studies predominantly used Markov cohort models (94 studies; 25 HTAs) structured based on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) with 21 health states (20 studies; 12 HTA reports). The London Ontario and British Columbia data sets were commonly used sources for natural history data (n = 33; n = 13). Twelve studies and ten HTAs from the UK assumed a waning of DMT effect over the long term, while this was uncommon in studies from other countries. Nineteen studies adjusted for multiple sclerosis (MS)-specific mortality estimates, while 18 studies used data from the national life table without adjustment. Studies prominently referred to mortality data that were about two decades old. The data on treatment effect was generally obtained from randomized controlled trials (43 studies; 7 HTAs) or from published evidence synthesis (23 studies; 24 HTAs). Utility estimates were derived from either published studies and/or supplemented with data from RCTs. Most of the models used the lifetime horizon (n = 37) with a 1-year cycle length (n = 63). CONCLUSION As expected, similarities as well as differences were observed across the different economic models. Available evidence suggests models should continue using the Markov cohort model with 21 EDSS-based states, however, allowing the transition to a lower EDSS state and assuming a sustained treatment effect. With reference to the data sources, models should consider using a contemporary MS-specific mortality data, recent natural history data, and country-specific utility data if available. In case of data unavailability, a sensitivity analysis using multiple sources of data should be conducted. In addition, future models should incorporate other clinically relevant outcomes, such as the cognition, vision, and psychological aspects of RMS, to be able to present the comprehensive value of DMTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anggie Wiyani
- Novartis Corporation (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.
| | | | - Vivek Khurana
- Novartis Corporation (Malaysia) Sdn. Bhd., Petaling Jaya, Malaysia
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10
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Health Economic Impact of Software-Assisted Brain MRI on Therapeutic Decision-Making and Outcomes of Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis Patients-A Microsimulation Study. Brain Sci 2021; 11:brainsci11121570. [PMID: 34942872 PMCID: PMC8699604 DOI: 10.3390/brainsci11121570] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/20/2021] [Revised: 11/20/2021] [Accepted: 11/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: To develop a microsimulation model to assess the potential health economic impact of software-assisted MRI in detecting disease activity or progression in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patients. Methods: We develop a simulated decision analytical model based on a hypothetical cohort of RRMS patients to compare a baseline decision-making strategy in which only clinical evolution (relapses and disability progression) factors are used for therapy decisions in MS follow-up, with decision-making strategies involving MRI. In this context, we include comparisons with a visual radiologic assessment of lesion evolution, software-assisted lesion detection, and software-assisted brain volume loss estimation. The model simulates clinical (EDSS transitions, number of relapses) and subclinical (new lesions and brain volume loss) disease progression and activity, modulated by the efficacy profiles of different disease-modifying therapies (DMTs). The simulated decision-making process includes the possibility to escalate from a low efficacy DMT to a high efficacy DMT or to switch between high efficacy DMTs when disease activity is detected. We also consider potential error factors that may occur during decision making, such as incomplete detection of new lesions, or inexact computation of brain volume loss. Finally, differences between strategies in terms of the time spent on treatment while having undetected disease progression/activity, the impact on the patient’s quality of life, and costs associated with health status from a US perspective, are reported. Results: The average time with undetected disease progression while on low efficacy treatment is shortened significantly when using MRI, from around 3 years based on clinical criteria alone, to 2 when adding visual examination of MRI, and down to only 1 year with assistive software. Hence, faster escalation to a high efficacy DMT can be performed when MRI software is added to the radiological reading, which has positive effects in terms of health outcomes. The incremental utility shows average gains of 0.23 to 0.37 QALYs over 10 and 15 years, respectively, when using software-assisted MRI compared to clinical parameters only. Due to long-term health benefits, the average annual costs associated with health status are lower by $1500–$2200 per patient when employing MRI and assistive software. Conclusions: The health economic burden of MS is high. Using assistive MRI software to detect and quantify lesions and/or brain atrophy has a significant impact on the detection of disease activity, treatment decisions, health outcomes, utilities, and costs in patients with MS.
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Psychometric validation of the EORTC QLQ-HCC18 in patients with previously treated unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma. Qual Life Res 2021; 31:937-950. [PMID: 34518988 PMCID: PMC8921023 DOI: 10.1007/s11136-021-02992-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 09/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
To demonstrate the measurement properties of the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire Hepatocellular Carcinoma 18-question module (EORTC QLQ-HCC18) within a previously treated, unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) clinical trial population that was distinct from the published QLQ-HCC18 validation population. Analyses were conducted using data from BGB-A317-208, an open label, international, clinical trial assessing efficacy and safety of the monoclonal antibody tislelizumab in adult HCC patients. The EORTC Quality of Life Questionnaire Core 30 (EORTC QLQ-C30) and QLQ-HCC18 instruments were assessed at baseline and weeks 3 and 9 follow-up visits. Per US Food and Drug Administration guidance, psychometric validation of the QLQ-HCC18 included reliability (internal consistency and test–retest), construct validity (convergent and discriminant validity and known-groups validity), ability to detect change, and meaningful within-patient change (MWPC). Known-groups validity and MWPC analyses were also stratified on several pre-defined subgroups. A total of 248 patients were included. Only the QLQ-HCC18 fatigue, nutrition, and index domains demonstrated acceptable internal consistency; acceptable test–retest reliability was found for fatigue, body image, nutrition, pain, sexual interest, and index domains. The QLQ-HCC18 fatigue domain achieved the pre-specified criterion defining acceptable convergent and discriminant validity for 13 of 16 correlations, whereas the index domain achieved the pre-specified criterion for 14 of 16 correlations. Clear differentiation of the QLQ-HCC18 change scores between improvement and maintenance anchor groups were observed for body image, fatigue, pain, and index domains, whereas differentiation between deterioration and maintenance anchor groups were observed for fever and fatigue domains. MWPC point estimates defining improvement for the QLQ-HCC18 fatigue and index domains were −7.18 and −4.07, respectively; MWPC point estimates defining deterioration were 5.34 and 3.16, respectively. The EORTC QLQ-HCC18 fatigue and index domains consistently demonstrated robust psychometric properties, supporting the use of these domains as suitable patient-reported endpoints within a previously treated, unresectable HCC patient population.
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Ngorsuraches S, Poudel N. Incorporating patients' preferences in the value assessment of disease-modifying therapies for multiple sclerosis: a narrative review. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2021; 21:183-195. [PMID: 33472451 DOI: 10.1080/14737167.2021.1880321] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Despite the increasing role of patients in the US healthcare system, patients have yet been engaged in the value assessment of their treatments, including disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) for multiple sclerosis (MS). The objectives of this review were therefore to summarize existing studies on cost-effectiveness analysis (CEA) with quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) and patients' preferences of DMTs for MS, and to discuss how to incorporate patients' preferences into the value assessment of DMTs.Area covered: We reviewed previous systematic reviews and conducted further search until November 2020 for studies on CEA with QALYs and patients' preferences of DMTs for MS. We identified the outcomes that were assessed or valued in the CEA studies and the DMT attributes that were important to patients with MS.Expert opinion: Our literature review showed that the studies using CEA with QALYs failed to capture some important DMT attributes, e.g., route and frequency of administration, identified in the studies on the patients' preferences. Various approaches were available for incorporating the patients' preferences in the value assessment of DMTs for MS. We supported this incorporation, which subsequently would increase patient access to preferred DMTs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Surachat Ngorsuraches
- Department of Health Outcomes Research and Policy, Auburn University, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn, AL, USA
| | - Nabin Poudel
- Department of Health Outcomes Research and Policy, Auburn University, Harrison School of Pharmacy, Auburn, AL, USA
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Abstract
Alemtuzumab (Lemtrada®) is an anti-CD52 monoclonal antibody approved in the EU for the treatment of highly active relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). In phase 3 trials in patients with active RRMS, intravenous alemtuzumab was more effective than subcutaneous interferon β-1a in terms of decreasing relapse rates (in treatment-naïve or -experienced patients) and disability progression (treatment-experienced patients). Treatment benefits were maintained over up to 9 years of follow-up, with ≈ 50% of patients not requiring retreatment. The efficacy of alemtuzumab in patients with highly active disease was generally similar to that in the overall population. Alemtuzumab has an acceptable tolerability profile, with infusion-associated reactions, infections and autoimmunity being the main safety and tolerability issues. Current evidence indicates that alemtuzumab is an effective treatment option for adults with highly active RRMS, with an acceptable safety and tolerability profile and convenient treatment regimen.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yahiya Y Syed
- Springer Nature, Mairangi Bay, Private Bag 65901, Auckland, 0754, New Zealand.
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Tafazzoli A, Chavan A, Harty G, Moller J, Wong SL. Efficiency Model of Cladribine Tablets Versus Infusion-Based Disease-Modifying Drugs for Patients with Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis. Adv Ther 2020; 37:3791-3806. [PMID: 32647909 DOI: 10.1007/s12325-020-01426-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/03/2020] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION To develop a simulation model assessing the efficiency of using cladribine tablets versus infusion-based disease-modifying drugs (DMDs) for the treatment of relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) from a facility perspective in the UK. METHODS A scheduling algorithm was developed to simulate day-case admissions and calculate the mean changes to resource use and time burden for patients in a facility that transitions from infusion-based treatments to cladribine tablets over 1 year. Model inputs and assumptions were based on previous research and expert opinion. Model validation and quality checks were performed and additional scenario analyses were also conducted. RESULTS The model successfully scheduled all infusion treatments in the base case and no patients were left off the schedule as a result of lack of capacity. Modeled base-case outcomes increased in future scenarios owing to a 35% increase in demand. The introduction of cladribine tablets reduced these impacts. Specifically, the difference in mean daily utilization was reduced in the future scenario from 13% to 3% as 8% of patients moved to cladribine tablets; annual administration costs decreased by 96% and annual time burden decreased by 90%. Results from additional scenarios showed the largest benefits from switching current infusion patients to cladribine tablets were realized in facilities having moderate to high resource utilization. CONCLUSIONS This model provides facility decision-makers the ability to assess the efficiency of using cladribine tablets rather than an infusion-based DMD. The simulation quantified the benefits gained from reducing the burden on facility resources by switching some patients with RRMS from infusion-based DMDs to cladribine tablets. Overall, modeled outcomes increased in future scenarios owing to an increase in demand, although the introduction of cladribine tablets reduced this impact.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Tafazzoli
- Evidence Synthesis, Modeling and Communication, Evidera, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Ameya Chavan
- Evidence Synthesis, Modeling and Communication, Evidera, Bethesda, MD, USA
| | - Gerard Harty
- Global Evidence and Value Development, Global Research and Development, EMD Serono, Inc, Billerica, MA, USA.
| | - Jorgen Moller
- Evidence Synthesis, Modeling and Communication, Evidera, London, UK
| | - Schiffon L Wong
- Global Evidence and Value Development, Global Research and Development, EMD Serono, Inc, Billerica, MA, USA
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van Eijndhoven E, Brauer M, Kee R, MacEwan J, Mucha L, Wong SL, Durand A, Shafrin J. Modeling the impact of patient treatment preference on health outcomes in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis. J Med Econ 2020; 23:474-483. [PMID: 31903813 DOI: 10.1080/13696998.2019.1711100] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/18/2022]
Abstract
Aims: Model how moving from current disease-modifying drug (DMD) prescribing patterns for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) observed in the United Kingdom (UK) to prescribing patterns based on patient preferences would impact health outcomes over time.Materials and methods: A cohort-based Markov model was used to measure the effect of DMDs on long-term health outcomes for individuals with RRMS. Data from a discrete choice experiment were used to estimate the market shares of DMDs based on patient preferences (i.e. preference shares). These preference shares and real-world UK market shares were used to calculate the effect of prescribing behavior on relapses, disability progression, and quality-adjusted life-years (QALYs). The incremental benefit of patient-centered prescribing over current practices for the UK RRMS population was then estimated; scenario and sensitivity analyses were also conducted.Results: Compared to current prescribing practices, when UK patients with RRMS were treated following patient preferences, health outcomes were improved. This population was expected to experience 501,690 relapses and gain 1,003,263 discounted QALYs over 50 years under patient-centered prescribing practices compared to 538,417 relapses and 958,792 discounted QALYs under current practices (-6.8% and +4.6%, respectively). Additionally, less disability progression was observed when prescribed treatment was based on patient preferences. In a scenario analysis where only oral treatments were considered, the results were similar, although the magnitude of benefit was smaller. Number of relapses was most sensitive to how the annualized relapse rate was modeled; disability progression was most sensitive to mortality rate assumptions.Limitations: Treatment efficacy estimates applied to various models in this study were based on data derived from clinical trials, rather than real-world data; the impact of patient-centered prescribing on treatment adherence and/or switching was not modeled.Conclusions: The population of UK RRMS patients may experience overall health gains if patient preferences are better incorporated into prescribing practices.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Rebecca Kee
- Precision Health Economics, Los Angeles, CA, USA
| | | | - Lisa Mucha
- Global Evidence & Value Development, Global Research & Development, EMD Serono Inc, Billerica, MA, USA
| | - Schiffon L Wong
- Global Evidence & Value Development, Global Research & Development, EMD Serono Inc, Billerica, MA, USA
| | - Adeline Durand
- Global Evidence & Value Development, Global Research & Development, EMD Serono Inc, Billerica, MA, USA
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Pinheiro B, Guerreiro R, Costa J, Miguel LS. Cost-effectiveness of cladribine tablets versus fingolimod in patients with highly active relapsing multiple sclerosis in Portugal. J Med Econ 2020; 23:484-491. [PMID: 31951777 DOI: 10.1080/13696998.2020.1717499] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023]
Abstract
Aims: To assess the cost-utility of cladribine tablets versus fingolimod in patients with highly active relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) in Portugal.Methods: A 1-year cycle cohort-based Markov state transition model was developed to simulate disease progression, measured by Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), relapses, and conversion to secondary-progressive MS (SPMS). Patients were assumed to remain on treatment until progression to EDSS level 7, conversion to SPMS, or complete loss of efficacy due to waning effect. Natural history was based on British Columbia Multiple Sclerosis registry, London Ontario database, UK MS Trust, and cladribine tablets clinical trial (CLARITY). Portuguese all-cause mortality was adjusted for the MS associated increased mortality. Clinical inputs for active treatments (disability progression and relapse rate) were estimated on a network meta-analysis. Utility weights were derived from UK-MS Survey and published literature. Resource consumption by EDSS and due to relapses was based on published literature, National DRG microdata and expert opinion. Unit costs were obtained from official sources. The analysis was conducted from payers' perspective, time horizon of 50 years and discount rate of 5%, for both costs and benefits. Uncertainty was assessed via probabilistic and deterministic sensitivity analyses.Results: Compared to fingolimod, cladribine tablets were associated with a delay in progression, resulting in a gain of 0.85 quality adjusted life years (QALYs) and a cost decrease of 25,935 €. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis resulted in a mean ICER of -31,781 € per QALY and was dominant in 98.7% of the simulations. Cladribine tablets were dominant across the scenario analyses tested.Conclusions: Treatment of highly active RRMS with cladribine tablets was less costly and more effective than treatment with fingolimod. Hence, it is a dominant strategy in the Portuguese setting. No conclusions can be drawn from the present study regarding other treatment options, in particular natalizumab and alemtuzumab.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bernardete Pinheiro
- Centro de Estudos de Medicina Baseada na Evidência, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Rita Guerreiro
- Centro de Estudos de Medicina Baseada na Evidência, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - João Costa
- Centro de Estudos de Medicina Baseada na Evidência, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
- Laboratório de Farmacologia Clínica e Terapêutica, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
| | - Luís Silva Miguel
- Centro de Estudos de Medicina Baseada na Evidência, Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade de Lisboa, Lisboa, Portugal
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION Cost assessment modelling (CAM) of treatments in highly active relapsing multiple sclerosis was conducted. METHODS The CAM was developed using the R programming language. The PICOSTEPS health technology assessment framework was applied in the CAM. Modelled patients were 280 adults with highly active relapsing multiple sclerosis eligible for disease-modifying treatment. Intervention was cladribine tablets, a new and reimbursed oral treatment for highly active relapsing multiple sclerosis in Finland. Comparators included fingolimod, the most used oral reimbursed treatment for the highly active disease, and natalizumab, the most used intravenous treatment, and a treatment mix (80% use fingolimod, 20% use natalizumab) in Finland. Outcomes presented expected annual and cumulative drug-associated costs in the overall population and per patient. Setting was modelled public specialist care in Finland. Time was set to 4 years, without discounting. Effects covered expected drug-associated costs (screening, acquisition, administration, monitoring, adverse events, travelling, productivity). Perspective was a limited societal perspective. Sensitivity analyses regarding all PICOSTEPS components were conducted. RESULTS Cladribine tablets were projected to be cost saving in comparison to fingolimod, natalizumab and treatment mix. The respective modelled savings were €4,598,742, €16,249,701 and €6,928,934 in the overall population, and €16,424, €58,035 and €24,746 per patient, respectively, during the 4 years. The most important cost driver was drug costs, representing 96.3%, 96.0% and 83.4% of modelled costs associated with cladribine tablets, fingolimod and natalizumab, respectively. Cladribine tablets sustained their affordability in the sensitivity analyses. From the perspective of health care payer, cladribine tablets' savings were projected to be €4,514,509, €15,145,366 and €6,640,680 in the overall population, and €16,123, €54,091 and €23,717 per patient in comparison to fingolimod, natalizumab and treatment mix, respectively. CONCLUSION Based on the CAM, cladribine tablets were projected to robustly save modelled drug-associated costs in comparison to fingolimod, natalizumab and their mix in Finland.
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Michels RE, de Fransesco M, Mahajan K, Hengstman GJD, Schiffers KMH, Budhia S, Harty G, Krol M. Cost Effectiveness of Cladribine Tablets for the Treatment of Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis in The Netherlands. APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS AND HEALTH POLICY 2019; 17:857-873. [PMID: 31444659 PMCID: PMC6885501 DOI: 10.1007/s40258-019-00500-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Cladribine tablets have recently become available in The Netherlands for patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) as a disease-modifying agent that reduces the frequency and severity of relapses and delays disability progression. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to evaluate the cost effectiveness of cladribine tablets, compared with alternative options, in the treatment of RRMS patients with high disease activity (HDA) and patients with rapidly evolving severe (RES) MS in The Netherlands. METHODS A Markov model was developed simulating the costs and effects of RRMS treatment. For HDA, alemtuzumab and fingolimod were used as comparators; natalizumab was used for the RES subpopulation. The analysis included a societal perspective and a value-of-information (VOI) analysis. RESULTS For the HDA subpopulation, treatment with cladribine tablets was the cost-effective (dominant) strategy compared with alemtuzumab and fingolimod, with 50.9% and 98.2%, respectively, probability of being cost effective at a threshold of €50,000/QALY gained and a net monetary benefit (NMB) of €10,866 and €151,115, respectively. For the RES subpopulation, treatment with cladribine tablets dominated treatment with natalizumab, with 94.1% probability of being cost effective at a threshold of €50,000/QALY gained and an NMB of €122,986. Note that these outcomes are driven by the lower costs of cladribine tablets. Efficacy differences were small, very uncertain, and likely not clinically meaningful. The probabilistic sensitivity analyses showed significant overlap in the credible intervals for total lifetime QALY outcomes and costs of cladribine tablets and all relevant comparators. The population-level VOI amounted to €19,295,441. CONCLUSIONS The base-case analysis shows that treatment of RRMS with cladribine tablets is cost effective versus alemtuzumab and fingolimod in HDA patients, and cost effective versus natalizumab in RES patients, at a threshold of €50,000. Driven by the lower costs, cladribine tablets were cost effective (dominant) in all base-case analyses. However, given that outcomes are based on indirect comparisons and post hoc subgroup analysis, as well as the uncertainty surrounding the outcomes, the results presented in this paper should be interpreted with caution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Renée Else Michels
- IQVIA, Real World Evidence Solutions, Herikerbergweg 314, 1101 CT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | | | | | - Gerald J D Hengstman
- Department of Neurology, Catharina Hospital, Michelangelolaan 2, 5623 EJ, Eindhoven, The Netherlands
| | | | - Sangeeta Budhia
- PAREXEL International, PAREXEL Access Consulting, London, UK
| | - Gerard Harty
- EMD Serono, a business of Merck KGaA, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Marieke Krol
- IQVIA, Real World Evidence Solutions, Herikerbergweg 314, 1101 CT, Amsterdam, The Netherlands.
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Poveda JL, Trillo JL, Rubio-Terrés C, Rubio-Rodríguez D, Polanco A, Torres C. Cost-effectiveness of Cladribine Tablets and fingolimod in the treatment of relapsing multiple sclerosis with high disease activity in Spain. Expert Rev Pharmacoecon Outcomes Res 2019; 20:295-303. [PMID: 31220959 DOI: 10.1080/14737167.2019.1635014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To estimate the cost-effectiveness of Cladribine Tablets in the treatment of relapsing multiple sclerosis (RMS) with high disease activity compared with fingolimod, from the perspective of the National Health System (NHS) in Spain. METHODS A Markov model was developed. The annual transition probabilities, were adjusted to patients with RMS with high disease activity. The effect of the treatments compared on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) was modeled by hazard ratios for the confirmed progression of disability. The annual relapse rate and the probability of suffering adverse reactions were obtained from a meta-analysis and the literature. The derived costs were calculated from Spanish unit costs. The utilities were obtained from the CLARITY clinical trial and the literature. Deterministic and probabilistic sensitivity analyzes were performed. RESULTS Cladribine tablets was the dominant treatment: lower costs (-86,536 €) and more effective (+1.11 quality-adjusted life years - QALYs) compared to fingolimod. The probability that Cladribine Tablets was cost-effective compared to fingolimod ranged between 94.6% and 96.1% for willingness to pay from € 20,000 to € 30,000 per QALY gained. CONCLUSIONS Cladribine Tablets is a cost-effective treatment, compared to fingolimod, for the treatment of RMS with high disease activity. EXPERT OPINION According to the present study, compared to fingolimod, treatment with Cladribine Tablets of relapsing multiple sclerosis with high disease activity is an option that could generate savings for the Spanish National Health System, with a considerable gain in QALYs. Cladribine Tablets is considered cost-effective and dominant (less costs and more effectiveness) than fingolimod treatment option in this population.
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Affiliation(s)
- J L Poveda
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital Universitario y Politécnico La Fe , Valencia, Spain
| | - J L Trillo
- Pharmacy Department, Hospital Clínico Universitario de Valencia , Valencia, Spain
| | - C Rubio-Terrés
- Pharmacoeconomics Department, Health Value , Madrid, Spain
| | | | - A Polanco
- Corporate Affairs Department, Merck , Madrid, Spain
| | - C Torres
- Corporate Affairs Department, Merck , Madrid, Spain
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D'Amico E, Chisari CG, Gitto L, Zanghì A, Toscano S, Patti F. Pharmacoeconomics of synthetic therapies for multiple sclerosis. Expert Opin Pharmacother 2019; 20:1331-1340. [PMID: 31090469 DOI: 10.1080/14656566.2019.1615880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
Abstract
Introduction: Recently, the economic impact of multiple sclerosis (MS), which includes both direct and indirect costs, has been increasing. While direct costs comprise health-care costs, such as the cost of pharmaceuticals, additional treatments such as physiotherapy, and medical aids, indirect costs are triggered by the productivity loss of patients and caregivers. Although new drugs for MS have changed the therapeutic scenario, they have increased the direct costs of health-care services. Areas covered: This review describes the pharmacoeconomic aspects of synthetic therapies for MS. Additionally, it discusses the economic impact of the various classes of licensed disease-modifying treatments (DMTs) for relapsing forms of MS. Expert opinion: The emerging and more expensive DMTs for MS represent a considerable challenge for health-care systems and resource consumption. Future research should focus on the long-term efficacy of DMTs and the cost of treating MS in a real-life setting. Future biological and radiological biomarkers could help stratify patients at early stages of MS, helping physicians design a personalized therapeutic approach that could have a positive impact in economic terms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emanuele D'Amico
- a Department "G.F. Ingrassia"; MS center , University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Clara G Chisari
- a Department "G.F. Ingrassia"; MS center , University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Lara Gitto
- b Department of Economy , University of Messina , Messina , Italy
| | - Aurora Zanghì
- a Department "G.F. Ingrassia"; MS center , University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Simona Toscano
- a Department "G.F. Ingrassia"; MS center , University of Catania , Catania , Italy
| | - Francesco Patti
- a Department "G.F. Ingrassia"; MS center , University of Catania , Catania , Italy
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Walter E, Berger T, Bajer-Kornek B, Deisenhammer F. Cost-utility analysis of alemtuzumab in comparison with interferon beta, fingolimod, and natalizumab treatment for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis in Austria. J Med Econ 2019; 22:226-237. [PMID: 30522373 DOI: 10.1080/13696998.2018.1556668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/09/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Multiple sclerosis (MS), a chronic progressive, demyelinating, inflammatory disease, affects 2.5 million people worldwide. Approximately 63% of cases are classified as relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS) at the time of diagnosis. The aim of this cost-utility analysis is to evaluate alemtuzumab vs interferon beta (intramuscular [IM] interferon beta-1a, subcutaneous [SC] interferon beta-1a, SC interferon beta-1b, and SC pegylated interferon beta-1a) in previously treated, and vs SC interferon beta-1a, fingolimod, and natalizumab in untreated RRMS patients to determine the incremental cost-effectiveness ratio among the treatment alternatives as prices, the route, and the frequency of administration of considered products vary significantly. METHODS The primary outcome was the modeled incremental cost-effectiveness ratio (ICER; €/quality-adjusted life-year [QALY] gained). Markov modeling with a 10-year time horizon was carried out. During each 3-month cycle, patients maintained the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score or experienced progression, developed secondary progressive MS (SPMS), or showed EDSS progression in SPMS; experienced relapses; suffered from an adverse event (AE); changed treatment; or died. A published network meta-analysis (NMA) was used for indirect comparison. The possibility of a therapy switch was considered. Clinical input data and resource utilization data were derived from the literature. Costs were extracted from price lists published in Austria and were calculated from the payer's perspective. RESULTS In treatment naïve patients, alemtuzumab is associated with costs of €132,663 and 5.25 QALYs in a 10-year time horizon. Costs for SC interferon beta amount to €164,159 and generate 4.85 QALYs. Also, in the pre-treated patients, alemtuzumab dominated comparators by accumulating higher total QALYs (4.88) and lower total costs (€137.409) compared to interferon beta-1a (€200.133), fingolimod (€240.903), and natalizumab (€247.758). CONCLUSION The analysis shows that alemtuzumab is a cost-saving alternative to treat RRMS in pre-treated and therapy naïve patients. From the patient perspective, alemtuzumab improves quality-of-life.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evelyn Walter
- a IPF Institute for Pharmaeconomic Research , Vienna , Austria
| | - Thomas Berger
- b Clinical Department of Neurology , Medical University of Innsbruck , Innsbruck , Austria
| | | | - Florian Deisenhammer
- d Department of Neurology , Medical University of Innsbruck , Innsbruck , Austria
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Taheri S, Sahraian MA, Yousefi N. Cost-effectiveness of alemtuzumab and natalizumab for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis treatment in Iran: decision analysis based on an indirect comparison. J Med Econ 2019; 22:71-84. [PMID: 30380350 DOI: 10.1080/13696998.2018.1543189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Alemtuzumab and natalizumab are approved as second-line therapies for relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) patients in Iran who have shown an inadequate response to other disease-modifying therapy (DMT). In the absence of head-to-head trials, evaluations based on decision analytic modeling may be a suitable alternative to compare alemtuzumab and natalizumab in RRMS. PURPOSE To evaluate the cost-effectiveness of alemtuzumab compared with natalizumab in RRMS in Iran, based on an indirect comparison of clinical trial data. METHODS A cost-utility analysis was conducted using a cohort-based Markov model to analyze cost-utility in a cohort of 1,000 RRMS patients treated with alemtuzumab or natalizumab who had failed at least one previous DMT. Costs were measured in 2018 US Dollars, and were estimated from both the societal and National Healthcare Service (NHS) perspective over a 20-year time horizon in Iran. One-way deterministic sensitivity analyses were carried out to investigate the impact of individual variables on model results. RESULTS Alemtuzumab dominated natalizumab in both NHS and societal perspective analyses. From the NHS perspective, the total discounted costs per patient were estimated at $147,417 and $150,579 for alemtuzumab and natalizumab, respectively, over 20 years. The discounted quality-adjusted life years were estimated to be 7.07 and 6.05, respectively. Results were similar for the societal perspective analysis. Results were most sensitive to acquisition costs and the time horizon, while no sensitivity was observed for Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) health-states utility, relapse relative risk, adverse event or EDSS-related costs, and laboratory/monitoring costs. CONCLUSION Alemtuzumab was dominant in the treatment of RRMS compared with natalizumab due to lower total cost, greater efficacy and slowing of disease progression, and lower rate of relapses over a 20-year time horizon in Iran. Comparative head-to-head trials and long-term follow-up are needed to confirm these results.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saeed Taheri
- a Department of Pharmacoeconomics and Pharma Management, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science , Tehran , Iran
| | - Mohammad Ali Sahraian
- b MS Research Center, Neuroscience Institute, Tehran University of Medical Sciences , Tehran , Iran
| | - Nazila Yousefi
- a Department of Pharmacoeconomics and Pharma Management, School of Pharmacy, Shahid Beheshti University of Medical Science , Tehran , Iran
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Abstract
Cladribine is a deoxyadenosine analogue prodrug that preferentially depletes lymphocytes, key cells underlying multiple sclerosis (MS) pathogenesis. Cladribine tablets (Mavenclad®) represent the first short-course oral disease-modifying drug (DMD) for use in MS. The tablets, administered in two short courses 1 year apart, are indicated for the treatment of adults with highly active relapsing MS on the basis of data from pivotal clinical trials, including the phase 3 study CLARITY and its extension. A cumulative cladribine tablets dose of 3.5 mg/kg administered in this fashion in CLARITY reduced clinical relapse, disability progression and MRI-assessed disease activity and also improved some aspects of health-related quality of life (HR-QOL) versus placebo over 96 weeks in adults with relapsing-remitting MS (RRMS). Moreover, in the 96-week extension (plus 24 weeks' supplemental follow-up), no additional clinical benefit was gained from continuing versus discontinuing cladribine tablets after the first two annual courses of therapy, although MRI activity was more notable in a subset of cladribine tablet recipients who discontinued the drug. In post hoc analyses of CLARITY and/or a phase 2b trial, benefits of cladribine tablets were seen in patients with high disease activity (HDA) relapsing MS that were sometimes greater than in patients without HDA. Cladribine tablets have an acceptable tolerability profile and do not appear to be associated with an increased risk of overall infection or with an increased risk of malignancy (vs. matched reference populations). Active comparisons and longer-term follow-up would be beneficial, although current data indicate that for adults with highly active relapsing MS, cladribine tablets are an effective treatment option with the convenience of low-burden, short-course, oral administration.
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Affiliation(s)
- Emma D. Deeks
- 0000 0004 0372 1209grid.420067.7Springer, Private Bag 65901, Mairangi Bay, Auckland, 0754 New Zealand
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