Direct costs of relapses in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis

Abstract Introduction Effective treatments that reduce relapses can diminish the impact on MS costs in the long-term. This study aims to estimate direct costs of RRMS relapses in Catalonia (Spanish region). Methods Multi-centre, prospective, cross-sectional observational study with retrospective data collection. Estimated costs: disease-modifying therapies (DMTs) and symptoms treatments, use of hospital and ambulatory resources, technical aids, transport and paid caregivers from the National Health System (NHS) and global perspectives. Results One hundered and forty (140) suitable patients were included to estimate direct costs (mean [SD] age: 40.7 [10] years; females: 71.5%; low EDSS score at relapse start: 77.5%). Mean total direct costs of relapse/patient were €4,541 (NHS) and €4,626 (global). A subanalysis was performed in patients with relapses lasting ≤ 90 days (100 patients), relapse total direct costs/patient were €4,989 (NHS) and €5,115 (global). Motor relapses presented a higher cost (a mean of €9,345/patient). Mean total direct cost/patient was higher when there was a DMT switch due to the relapse (€14,370 compared to €1,149), from a global perspective. Conclusion Mean direct costs of RRMS relapse/patient in Catalonia were €4,989 and €5,115 for NHS and global perspectives, respectively. The type of relapse and switching the DMT due to the relapse were associated with an increase in direct costs.