Multiple Sclerosis
Study register · detail Markov-Modell (gesundheitsökonomische Analyse) · Multiple Sclerosis · 2016

A cost-effectiveness model for the use of a cannabis-derived oromucosal spray for the treatment of spasticity in multiple sclerosis.

Clear benefit 9 citations
Sample
Duration30 years
ControlStandard therapy alone
EndpointICER
Blindingn.a.
DesignMarkov-Modell (gesundheitsökonomische Analyse)
Cannabinoidkombination
THC:CBD1:1
Routeoromukosal
Key finding

THC/CBD spray is cost-effective and, when home care costs are taken into account, dominant over standard therapy alone.

Summary

Markov model over 30 years: THC/CBD oral spray in addition to standard therapy for moderate to severe MS spasticity in Wales; ICER £10.891/QALY; when including care costs dominant (ICER −£95.423/QALY, incremental savings £33.609/patient), i.e. THC/CBD spray cost-effective.

P
PopulationAdults with moderate to severe MS spasticity (Markov model, Wales)
I
InterventionTHC/CBD oromucosal spray (Nabiximols) + standard therapy
C
ControlStandard therapy alone
O
OutcomeICER £10.891/QALY over 30 years (excluding nursing care costs); dominant (ICER –£95.423/QALY) when including home care costs
Quality profile
Sample size
Blinding
Effect size Clear benefit
Citations / year
Authors
Gras A, Broughton J.
DOI 10.1586/14737167.2016.1140574
Design: Markov-Modell (gesundheitsökonomische Analyse)
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Abstract
<h4>Background</h4>Severity of spasticity in multiple sclerosis (MS) directly correlates with the level and cost of care required. This study assessed whether a tetrahydrocannabinol/cannabidiol (THC/CBD) oromucosal spray for treatment of moderate-severe MS spasticity is a cost-effective use of healthcare resources in Wales.<h4>Methods</h4>A Markov model was developed to compare THC/CBD plus standard of care (SoC) treatments with SoC alone.<h4>Results</h4>At 30 years, total incremental cost for THC/CBD plus SoC treatment was estimated at £3,836/patient (ICER: £10,891/quality-adjusted life year [QALY]). Hospital admission costs had the greatest effect on the base case ICER. Inclusion of carer cost led to incremental cost of -£33,609/patient (ICER: -£95,423/QALY).<h4>Conclusions</h4>The THC/CBD spray was found to be cost-effective for the treatment of spasticity in MS, and dominant, if home carer costs were included. Use of THC/CBD has the potential to generate cost savings by significantly improving the symptoms of moderate to severe MS spasticity.

The impediment to action advances action. — Marcus Aurelius