Cost–effectiveness of combinatorial pharmacogenomic testing for depression from the Canadian public payer perspective

Abstract

Aim: Evaluate the cost–effectiveness of combinatorial pharmacogenomic (PGx) testing, versus treatment as usual (TAU), to guide treatment for patients with depression, from the Canadian public healthcare system perspective. Materials & methods: Clinical and economic data associated with depression were extracted from published literature. Clinical (quality-adjusted life years; QALYs) and economic (incremental cost–effectiveness ratio) outcomes were modeled using combinatorial PGx and TAU treatment strategies across a 5-year time horizon. Results: With the combinatorial PGx strategy to guide treatment, patients were projected to gain 0.14–0.19 QALYs versus TAU. Accounting for test price, combinatorial PGx saved CAD $1,687–$3,056 versus TAU. Incremental cost–effectiveness ratios ranged from -$11,861 to -$16,124/QALY gained. Conclusion: Combinatorial PGx testing was more efficacious and less costly compared with the TAU for depression.