Modeling Cost-Effectiveness of a Generic ART Regimen in the U.S.

Using a generic efavirenz–based, three-pill regimen rather than the branded single-pill regimen demonstrated the potential for significant cost savings with modest loss of effectiveness.

Worldwide, the use of generic antiretroviral drugs has increased HIV treatment rates and decreased mortality and incidence. Now, researchers have mathematically modeled the effect of substituting an anticipated once-daily, three-pill, generic-based regimen (generic efavirenz and 3TC; branded tenofovir) for all HIV-infected people in the U.S. assumed to be using the branded one-pill-daily tenofovir/FTC/efavirenz regimen (Atripla). Key assumptions included estimated average annual costs for the regimens ($9200 vs. $15,300 — and $22,100 for a second-line boosted protease inhibitor–based salvage regimen), 24-week suppression rates (85% vs. 78%), and subsequent annual failure rate (2.5% vs. 5.4%).

The model showed that the slightly more effective…

Reviewing Author

Keith Henry, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardViiV Advisory Board

Editorial BoardsJAIDS: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes

Keith Henry, MD

Disclosures

Consultant/Advisory BoardViiV Advisory Board

Editorial BoardsJAIDS: Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes

Modeling Cost-Effectiveness of a Generic ART Regimen in the U.S.

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Reviewing Author