Abstract
Objective
To evaluate the cost effectiveness of subcutaneous interferon-β-1a (IFNβ-1a) 44μg three times weekly in relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) using an econometric model.
Methods
Data on RRMS patients treated with IFNβ-1a 22 or 44μg subcutaneously three times weekly or placebo for up to 4 years were obtained from the Prevention of Relapses and disability by Interferon-β-1a Subcutaneously in Multiple Sclerosis (PRISMS) study. The area under the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score-time curve was used as a measure of disability and the effectiveness of therapy was expressed as EDSS-months of disability prevented. Costs were calculated for the UK and France, and results were projected to 10 and 20 years using a time series regression model.
Results
Over 10 years, treatment with IFNβ-1a 44μg subcutaneously three times weekly prevented 121 EDSS-months of additional disability at a cost of Euros (€)732 each (year of costing 2000). Over 20 years, 321 EDSS-months were saved at a cost of €359 per month (year of costing 2000).
Conclusion
This analysis indicated that IFNβ-1a 44μg subcutaneously three times weekly is cost effective in RRMS and that treatment becomes increasingly cost effective over time.
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Notes
1The use of tradenames is for product identification purposes only and does not imply endorsement.
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Acknowledgements
Preparation of this study report was made possible by financial support from Serono International SA, Geneva, Switzerland. The authors have provided no information on conflicts of interest directly relevant to the content of the study.
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Lepen, C., Coyle, P., Vollmer, T. et al. Long-Term Cost Effectiveness of Interferon-β-1a in the Treatment of Relapsing-Remitting Multiple Sclerosis. Clin. Drug Investig. 23, 571–581 (2003). https://doi.org/10.2165/00044011-200323090-00003
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.2165/00044011-200323090-00003