Cost-effectiveness of LHRH analogues in prostate cancer treatment in Russian Federation: preferential provision argumentation

Not only clinical efficiency but costeffectiveness is to be considered in a choice of treatment option, particularly in oncologic patients. Oncologic patients treatment needs large budget expenditures and more than 50% of this cost is for last several years of patients life when they usually get palliative treatment. Purpose of this research was to estimate cost-effectiveness of different hormonal treatment options. Three forms of Eligard (1, 3 and 6 monthly) and traditional agonists of LHRH (Zoladex 1 and 3 monthly, Buserelin 1 monthly, Leuprorelin 1 monthly, Triptorelin 1 monthly) were compared due to their efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Materials and methods. For comparison of 1, 3 and 6 monthly forms of medication TreeAgeR analytic program was used. Odeyemi and alt. (2007) investigation method was used. Injection frequency depended on medication. Side effects, first of all, hot flushes were managed by Venlafaxine. Medications prices were taken from financial standards submitted by Russian Federation government, clinical efficiency data were due to international multicentre researches. Results. More rarely the medication is injected - more rarely patients visits doctor, thus treatment cost is lower. E.g. 2 6-monthly injections of Eligard cost lower than 4 3-monthly injections that in turn cost lower than 12 1-monthly injections. Using 6-monthly form leads to cost cutting. 6-monthly Eligard form using is most cost-effective according to recent medication prices, treatment cost and budget savings per year.