Dupilumab reduces severe exacerbation-related costs among asthma patients: Results from a phase 2b trial

Rationale: In a phase 2b trial (NCT01854047), dupilumab (DPL) improved lung function and reduced severe exacerbations. This sub-analysis estimated severe exacerbation-related direct medical and productivity-related costs. Methods: Uncontrolled persistent asthma pts on medium-to-high-dose ICS/LABA were randomized to 24 weeks of add-on therapy with DPL 200mg every 2 weeks (q2w), 300mg q2w, 200mg every 4 weeks (q4w), 300mg q4w, or placebo (PBO). Healthcare resource utilization, work and non-work related days lost were collected using a questionnaire and monetized using published costs. Results are presented for the q2w and PBO groups only; q2w regimens have been selected for dosing in a phase 3 trial. Results: Compared with PBO, both DPL groups had lower numbers of hospitalizations, inpatient days, unscheduled physician visits, as well as work and non-work-related days lost. The 300mg group had lower number of emergency room visits while the 200mg group was similar to PBO. Total direct medical and productivity-related costs were lower for the DPL groups (Table). Severe exacerbation-related costs were 52% and 84% lower, respectively, in the DPL q2w groups vs PBO. Most common adverse events with DPL vs PBO were upper respiratory tract infection (13–15% vs 18%) and injection-site erythema (14–22% vs 8%). Conclusions: Dupilumab-treated patients had lower severe exacerbation-related costs compared to PBO.