Cost Effectiveness of Elidel in the Management of Patients with Atopic Dermatitis in Canada

Abstract

Background:

With increasing pressure on health care resources, it is necessary to demonstrate that new treatments are both effective and cost effective. ObjectiveThe purpose of this study was to assess the cost effectiveness of pimecrolimus (Elidel) compared to usual therapy in the treatment of both adults and children with atopic eczema in Canada.

Methods:

Analysis was performed using a decision model which estimated the incremental cost per quality adjusted life year (QALY) gained from both a societal and health care perspective.

Results:

For children, Elidel leads an incremental cost per QALY of $38,000 from a societal perspective. For adults, the incremental cost per QALY was $35,000.

Conclusion:

Elidel will lead to an overall increase in costs but with an improvement in clinical outcomes. The cost effectiveness ratios for Elidel were consistently below $50,000 per QALY gained. Given previous funding decisions in Canada, Elidel may be considered a cost-effective use of health care resources.