The pocketbook: Pharmacoeconomic issues related to intravenous immunoglobulin therapy

Two analyses were conducted to compare the cost-effectiveness of different intravenous immunoglobulin (IGIV) formulations: IGIV purified by caprylate precipitation and chromatography (IGIV-C) and IGIV manufactured by an older solvent-detergent method (IGIV-S/D). The results indicated that IGIV-C is associated with cost savings for patients with primary immunodeficiency or idiopathic (immune) thrombocytopenic purpura (ITP). With primary immunodeficiency, the largest cost driver was hospitalizations, whereas with ITP, it was ancillary product use and, more specifically, additional IGIV therapy. Although differences were noted between the two IGIV formulations, the long-term cost consequences of administering these IGIV products are unclear. Further work is necessary to determine whether the results of these analyses can be generalized beyond these particular patients and to evaluate the effects on long-term health care costs.