Economic Burden of Multiple Sclerosis Drugs in Iran during 2011–2019

BACKGROUND: Due to the invariably progressive nature of multiple sclerosis (MS) and the high economic burden of chronic diseases, this study was performed to estimate the economic burden of MS medications in Iran. METHODS: The present research is a descriptive study performed using comprehensive national data of Iran's Health Insurance Organization (IHIO). The timeframe for study was 2011–2019. In order to calculate the economic burden of MS medications, the cost of illness (COI) method based on the prevalence approach was used. In this study, economic burden estimation was performed according to available data on medication costs. Data mining was also used to perform different stages of study. RESULTS: The number of patients receiving MS medications covered by IHIO has increased from 19,367 in 2011 to 50,642 in 2019. The economic burden of MS medications of patients covered by the IHIO increased from $81 million to $96 million between 2011 and 2019, respectively. Among the 9 medications studied, Interferon accounted for a very high share of costs in all years. The cost per patient receiving medication has also increased from $7,000 in 2011 to $18,000 in 2019. CONCLUSION: Calculations of the economic burden of MS medications in Iran showed an upward trend during the 9 years of the study, which due to the increasing number of patients in Iran, the arrival of new medications and also the increase in prices.