Cost-effectiveness of trimetazidine for stable angina treatment in non-responder diabetics after beta blockers, nitrates and calcium channel blockers

Abstract

Objective: To assess the cost-effectiveness analysis of trimetazidine (TMZ) associated with conventional treatment (diuretic, acetylsalicylic acid [ASA], beta blocker, angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI), nitrate, statine, digitalis and calcium channel antagonist) versus conventional treatment alone in the treatment of diabetic patients with stable angina non-responders to beta blockers, nitrates and calcium channel blockers from the perspective of the Public Health System (SUS). Methods: A Markov model was developed, with one year cycles, to follow the patients along the natural course of disease until the end of your lifes. Clinical data were obtained from the literature review. Unit costs were extracted from official databases. Only direct medical costs were included. Costs and benefits were discounted at a rate of 5% per year. Outcome were expressed as hospitalization due to angina pectoris (HAP) avoided. Univariate sensitivity analysis was performed to determine the parameters of greatest influence on the results, varying them by plus or minus 20% compared to the baseline scenario. Results: Treatment with TMZ showed greater benefit compared to conventional treatment and generated an Incremental Cost-Effectiveness Ratio of USD 2,225.75 per HAP avoided (1USD = 3.30BRL). The parameter with the greatest impact on outcome was the number of angina pectoris episodes. Despite the high impact, it did not change the result, keeping it cost-effective. Conclusion: TMZ associated with conventional treatment has been shown to be an effective, safe and cost-effective alternative for the treatment of diabetic patients with stable angina non-responders to beta blockers, nitrates and calcium channel blockers.