The cost effectiveness of zanamivir and oseltamivir for influenza treatment

In this month's column, the authors evaluate the cost effectiveness of osel tamivir and zanamivir, compared with standard care, for the treatment of in fluenza. Using efficacy data from randomized, placebo-controlled clinical t rials, a cost-effectiveness model was constructed. In an influenza-positive patient population, the cost per symptom-free day was $16 for zanamivir-tr eated patients compared with $39 for oseltamivir-treated patients. Consider ing a hypothetical drug budget of $100,000, 919 additional patients could b e treated with zanamivir than with oseltamivir. Treatment with zanamivir wo uld result in a gain of 1,714 symptom-free days and 52 fewer influenza-rela ted complications than if oseltamivir were used.