Comparisons of efficacy and cost-effectiveness of topical immunomodulators in the management of atopic dermatitis

SUMMARYThe availability of new topical immunomodulators greatly improves treatment options for patients with atopic dermatitis (AD). Unfortunately, head-to-head studies have not been conducted to allow comparisons in treatment efficacy and cost-effectiveness. The study aims to compare the efficacy and cost-effectiveness of tacrolimus ointment and pimecrolimus cream as monotherapy for the treatment of AD patients with moderate disease, who are not responsive to or not well-controlled with topical corticosteroids. In the absence of head-to-head comparative data, relative treatment efficacy was estimated based on existing outcomes, which were reported in the published literature and data from clinical trials. Comparisons were made between Eczema Area and Severity Index (EASI) scores and converted to disease-controlled days (DCDs) on treatment. Other assumptions about resource utilization, changes in management and patient outcomes were based on opinions of a physician panel and from previously published repo...