Cost-effectiveness analysis of the fixed-dose combination of Dorzolamide + Timolol versus Brinzolamide+Timolol in the treatment of ocular hypertension and Primary open-angle glaucoma in Vietnam

Introduction: This pharmacoeconomic assessment aimed to explore the cost-effectiveness of the fixed-dose combination of Dorzolamide+Timolol (DTFC) in ocular hypertension and primary open-angle glaucoma (OH/POAG) in Vietnam.

Methods: A cost-effectiveness analysis from third-party health payer perspective was designed with mixed modelling technique to simulate the long-term care for OH/POAG patients in Vietnam. With fixed-dose combination of Brinzolamide+Timolol (BTFC) as comparator, the treatment process was simulated by the decision-tree model for initial therapy and continued with the Markov model for maintenance therapy. Model parameters were derived from multiple sources, including real-world data, literature reviews and clinician consultations. Sensitivity analysis, including deterministic and probabilistic analyses, was conducted to explore the uncertainty of model outcomes.

Results: Base case analysis showed that the cost of treatment for each patient by DTFC was 42,906,600 VND, and by BTFC was 43,864,938 VND, while the comparative effectiveness was not different. Costs for healthcare services and medications were the most influential factors to model outcomes. DTFC demonstrated a 53.51% probability of being cost-effective compared to BTFC at the standard willingness-to-pay threshold.

Conclusion: From third-party health payer perspective, DTFC was the more cost-saving option while maintaining treatment benefits, compared to BTFC.