Cost-effectiveness and budgetary impact of introducing cabozantinib in the treatment of advanced renal cell carcinoma in the supplementary health system in Brazil

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to determine the cost-effectiveness and budgetary impact of cabozantinib for the supplementary health system in Brazil, in the treatment of advanced or metastatic renal cell carcinoma (RCC) after treatment failure with vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibitor, when compared current approved treatment: nivolumab. Methods: Costs related to the use of resources, medical treatment, adverse events and quality of life were used, calculated by health status. The horizon time of 20 years was considered for cost-effectiveness analysis and 5 years for budgetary impact, and an alternative scenario was carried out comparing cabozantinib to nivolumab and axitinib. Results: Cabozantinib showed superior efficacy when compared to nivolumab and axitinib and represents a cost reduction compared to nivolumab. In relation to adverse events, cabozantinib shows a reduction in costs when compared to nivolumab. Conclusion: These results show a potential savings for the supplementary health system with the adoption of cabozantinib in the treatment for advanced or metastatic second-line RCC in Brazil.