Cost-effectiveness of clopidogrel vs. aspirin treatment in high-risk acute coronary syndrome patients in Denmark
Background
The aim of this study was to estimate the cost-effectiveness of clopidogrel versus aspirin (ASA) in Denmark in the secondary prevention of cardiovascular events in three high-risk CAPRIE populations: (1) patients with a history of coronary artery bypass grafting, (2) patients with a history of ischemic events and (3) patients with multiple vascular territory involvement. Additionally, the cost-effectiveness of clopidogrel versus no treatment in ASA-intolerant patients was estimated.
Methods
Clinical, epidemiological and cost data (Danish estimates) were combined in a Markov model. Estimates of transition probabilities were derived from post hoc analyses of the CAPRIE database.
Results
Cost-effectiveness (CE) ratios ranged from 25,445 Danish kroner per LYG (life year gained) in patients with a history of CABG to 55,503 Danish kroner per LYG in patients with multiple vascular territory involvement. The estimated cost-effectiveness ratio of clopidogrel in ASA-intolerant patients was significantly lower (3,093 Danish kroner per LYG). Sensitivity analyses showed that the order of magnitude of these CE ratios is unaffected by changes in model assumptions.