Economic Evaluation of FOLFIRINOX vs nab-paclitaxel plus gemcitabine in advanced pancreatic cancer

Abstract

Specific Aims: Determine if FOLFIRINOX or nab-paclitaxel plus gemcitabine (NAB+G) has no difference in the cost per life year gained as a first line treatment for metastatic pancreatic cancer. Methods: This study used a retrospective chart review. Charts were accessed via the UACC electronic health records EPIQ and Cerner. Data collected consist of demographic information, number of co-morbidities, biological markers, treatment type, treatment duration, treatment dosing, supportive care measures, hospitalizations, and patient survival. Primary outcomes were assessed based on cost per life year gained. Average monthly cost of treatment is based off of known literature values. Main Results: Patients in the FOLFIRINOX group showed higher rates of provider visits. The average number of visits was 14.3 vs 7.6 in FOLFIRINOX and NAB+G respectively (p=0.014). The cost per life year gained was $86,493 for the FOLFIRINOX group and $146,652 for the NAB+G group. Conclusions: This study determined that patients treated with FOLFIRINOX experience significantly more provider visits during the course of their treatment when compared to nab-paclitaxel plus gemcitabine. While the average total cost of treatment was similar, the cost per life year gained was greater in the nab-paclitaxel plus gemcitabine group.