Cost-effectiveness of vortioxetine <i>versus</i> venlafaxine (extended release) in the treatment of major depressive disorder in South Korea

<div><p>ABSTRACT</p><p><b><i>Objective</i></b>: To assess the cost-effectiveness of vortioxetine <i>versus</i> venlafaxine XR (extended-release) in major depressive disorder (MDD) patients in South Korea.</p><p><b><i>Methods</i></b>: A 1-year cost-effectiveness analysis from a limited societal perspective was performed using a combined model consisting of a decision-tree and a Markov model. Patients entered the model when initiating or switching antidepressant treatment following inadequate response to previous treatment. Remission, relapse and recovery were the main health states.</p><p><b><i>Results</i></b>: Vortioxetine dominated venlafaxine XR, with quality-adjusted life year (QALY) gains of 0.0131 and cost savings of KRW 623,229/year [US$530/year] from a limited societal perspective. Safety contributed more than efficacy to the incremental QALY gains. More patients were in recovery after initial treatment and after 1 year with vortioxetine (31%, 40%) compared to venlafaxine XR (23%, 36%). Vortioxetine remained dominant in 98% of probabilistic simulations.</p><p><b><i>Conclusion</i></b>: Vortioxetine dominated venlafaxine XR in South Korea and is a relevant treatment option for MDD patients initiating or switching therapy.</p></div