The economics of basiliximab (Simulect) in preventing acute rejection in renal transplantation

An economic evaluation was undertaken alongside a multi-centre international trial of basiliximab. Resource usage within the trial was assessed, and the cost implications of using basiliximab evaluated. Recipients of a primary cadaveric kidney transplant were recruited into a double-blind trial and received either placebo (n = 186) or basiliximab (n = 190). Clinical outcomes and resource usage were monitored in the 12 months following transplantation. Local unit costs were obtained, and global analysis was undertaken using health sector purchasing-power parity rates. No statistically significant differences were found in the mean cost of treatment per patient. The mean cost of treatment was $47,940 for basiliximab patients and $46,280 for placebo patients, a mean difference of $1,660 (95% confidence interval (CI): -$4,150, $7,360; P = 0.58). Basiliximab produces clinical benefit in terms of preventing episodes of acute rejection, whilst the difference in the total resource usage and cost of treatment is not statistically significant.