Cost-effectiveness of single-inhaler triple therapy for patients with severe COPD: a systematic literature review

Introduction: Evidence from non-randomized studies shows benefits for single-inhaler users compared with multiple-inhaler users who receive the same medication. As a result, comparative cost-effectiveness studies are required to inform treatment decisions with an increasing choice of medications and devices for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This study conducted a systematic literature review to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of using a single combination inhaler regimen for patients with severe COPD. This review also investigated the health impact on patients in different settings.

Areas covered: A systematic literature search was conducted in PubMed (MEDLINE), EMBASE, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane Library, EBSCO Host (including CINAHL and EconLit), Health Technology Assessment Database, National Institute for Health Research Economic Evaluation Database, Cost-Effectiveness Analysis Registry and Google Scholar.

Expert opinion: Based on the primary findings of 13 included studies: (1) single-inhaler triple therapy was a cost-effective treatment option for patients with severe COPD, and (2) triple therapy also resulted in better health outcomes (reduced exacerbations, life-years gained) and increased QALYs for patients with severe COPD. Nonetheless, eleven out of the thirteen selected studies were funded by the pharmaceutical industry, and none were conducted in the least developed countries. Therefore, the results should be interpreted with caution.