RESUMO
We examined the cost-effectiveness of sparfloxacin compared with other selected oral antimicrobials in outpatient treatment of community-acquired pneumonia (CAP) using clinical pathway-based decision analysis. Cost estimates were obtained from medical claims databases and Medicare reimbursement schedules. Probability estimates were derived from published clinical trials, the medical literature, and clinical expert opinion. Overall adjusted efficacy rates were 89% for sparfloxacin, 79.4% for azithromycin, 77.8% for clarithromycin, 73% for cefaclor, 70.8% for amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, and 69% for erythromycin. The expected total cost/CAP episode of treatment with sparfloxacin was $216.07 compared with $258.97, $297.08, $345.75, $389.80, and $395.93 for azithromycin, clarithromycin, erythromycin, amoxicillin-clavulanic acid, and cefaclor, respectively. Therapy with sparfloxacin for managing CAP is cost effective-relative to other commonly prescribed antibiotics, resulting in net cost savings.
