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Protease inhibitors for hepatitis C: economic implications
Stuart J Turner1, Jack Brown, Joseph A Paladino
1School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, University at Buffalo, 205 Kapoor Hall, Buffalo, NY 14214, USA.
Pharmacoeconomics
|July 11, 2013
Summary
New protease inhibitors offer improved sustained virologic response for hepatitis C virus (HCV) genotype 1 infections. Decision-makers must consider the economic impact and optimal use of these advanced HCV treatments.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Health Economics
Background:
- Chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is a leading cause of liver disease and transplantation.
- Early stages are often asymptomatic, complicating prevalence estimation.
- Current standard treatment involves pegylated interferon and ribavirin.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the economic impact of new protease inhibitors on healthcare systems.
- To discuss considerations for integrating these agents into HCV treatment.
- To highlight challenges and future research directions in HCV therapy.
Main Methods:
- Review of current literature on economic evaluations of HCV triple therapy.
- Analysis of health-related quality of life issues associated with new treatments.
- Exploration of treatment algorithm variations and stopping rules.
Main Results:
- Protease inhibitors (boceprevir, telaprevir) show potential for increased sustained virologic response in genotype 1 HCV.
- Significant variations exist in proposed triple therapy durations and treatment protocols.
- Economic evaluations are crucial for formulary placement and healthcare system planning.
Conclusions:
- Protease inhibitors represent a significant advancement in HCV treatment, particularly for genotype 1.
- Careful consideration of cost-effectiveness and optimal treatment strategies is necessary.
- Future research should explore interferon-free regimens and treatment in diverse patient populations.
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