Cost-Benefit Analysis of Amtolmetin-Guacil

Abstract

To assess the economic profile of amtolmetin-guacil (AMG). The analytical framework of this study was a cost-benefit analysis. Using published trials focusing on the gastrointestinal tolerability of AMG versus other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), we assessed the economic profile of AMG in comparison with tolmetin, indomethacin, diclofenac and piroxicam. NSAID users from published randomised controlled trials (RCTs) and meta-analyses used for the present evaluation. AMG vs piroxicam, AMG vs diclofenac, AMG vs indomethacin, AMG vs tolmetin. The cost of NSAIDs in managing gastrointestinal lesions was considered. According to the cost-benefit analysis design, the effect was expressed as net cost or benefit consequent to the use of AMG vs other NSAIDs. The cost of managing gastrointestinal lesions has been estimated to range between L879 400 (EUR454) and L9 176 600 (EUR4740) [year of costing 2000], depending on the grade of severity considered. Compared with tolmetin, the net benefit of using AMG ranged (over 90 days) from a maximum of L4 243 530 (EUR2190) to a minimum of L793 246 (EUR410). With indomethacin, benefits ranged after 30 days from L6 064 058 (EU3132) to L2 026 644 (EUR1046). Similarly, compared with diclofenac, the savings were (over 28 to 30 days) between L3 301 962 (EUR1705) and L736 938 (EUR380). When compared with piroxicam, after 14 days savings reached a minimum of L290 229 (EUR150) and a maximum of L2 178 944 (EUR1077) [year of costing 2000]. Although further research is needed, from this study AMG appears to have a desirable economic profile compared with the other NSAIDs investigated in this study.