Cost-Effectiveness of Escitalopram Versus Citalopram in the Treatment of Severe Depression

This Austrian study estimated the cost-effectiveness of escitalopram compared with citalopram in the management of severe depression. A decision model incorporated treatment paths & associated direct resource use & the indirect cost of work absenteeism over a 6-month period. Six months after the start of treatment, the overall clinical success remission rate was higher for escitalopram than for citalopram. From the perspective of the Austrian Social Healthcare Insurance System, the cost for patients who attempted suicide was 4585. From the societal perspective the expected cost of attempted suicide was 3435 higher, due to absenteeism from work for 40.4 workdays, resulting in a total cost of 8020. Data suggest escitalopram is a cost-effective treatment compared with citalopram in the management of severe depression. (19 refs.)