The cost-effectiveness of clopidogrel: a review by indication

Mark D Schleinitz1

  • 1Assistant Professor of Medicine, Rhode Island Hospital & Brown University, Division of General Internal Medicine, 593 Eddy Street, MPB-1, Providence, RI 02903, USA. mschleinitz@lifespan.org.

Insights

Clopidogrel, an antiplatelet medication, is effective for secondary vascular disease prevention and post-cardiovascular event treatment. Its cost-effectiveness depends on indication, patient population, event risk, and aspirin combination.

Area of Science:

  • Pharmacology
  • Cardiovascular Medicine
  • Health Economics

Background:

  • Clopidogrel is a thienopyridine antiplatelet agent.
  • It inhibits adenosine diphosphate-dependent platelet activation.
  • Proven efficacy in secondary vascular disease prophylaxis and post-event management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the cost-effectiveness of clopidogrel.
  • To analyze cost-effectiveness based on indication, patient population, event risk, and aspirin combination.

Main Methods:

  • Review of existing data on clopidogrel cost-effectiveness.
  • Focus on four key criteria: indication, population, risk, and aspirin use.

Main Results:

  • Cost-effectiveness of clopidogrel is variable.
  • Variability is influenced by specific clinical indications.
  • Patient population, future event risk, and concomitant aspirin use are critical factors.

Conclusions:

  • Clopidogrel's value proposition is context-dependent.
  • Understanding these factors is crucial for optimal prescribing and resource allocation.
  • Further analysis of cost-effectiveness across diverse clinical scenarios is warranted.

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