A COST-BENEFIT-ANALYSIS OF 4 HORMONAL CONTRACEPTIVE METHODS

This paper presents the results of a cost-benefit analysis conducted f or pregnancy prevention treatment with four hormonal methods of contra ception using a managed-care viewpoint. The therapies analyzed are med roxy-progesterone acetate injection (Depo-Provera(R)), levonorgestrel subdermal implants (Norplant(R)), progestogen-only oral tablets (Nor-Q D(R)), and combination progestogen/estrogen oral tablets (Ortho-Novum( R) 7/7/7). Cost and benefits associated with the use of therapies are identified and analyzed based on the cost per patient-day of effective pregnancy prevention. The analysis demonstrates that all four methods have a positive net benefit, with Depo-Provera having the highest net benefit. This information can provide decision makers within a pharma cy and therapeutics committee of a managed-care organization the frame work on which to base formulary decisions.