Cost-utility analysis of telitacicept versus belimumab in the treatment of systemic lupus erythematosus in China

Objective: Telitacicept and belimumab are the only two approved biologics in China for treating systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE). With the widespread clinical use of biologics, more reliable clinical evidence has been provided. This study seeks to evaluate the cost-effectiveness of two biologic treatments for SLE in China by utilizing current medication prices and the most recent clinical research. Methods: A cost-effectiveness analysis comparing telitacicept and belimumab was conducted by developing a lifetime SLE partition survival model using the Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index 2000 (SLEDAI-2 K) score, which considers the relationship between organ damage and death. The data were extracted from the literature with model assumptions. Scenario analysis of short term treatment (5 years) and typical one-way and probabilistic sensitivity analyses were performed. Results: After lifetime simulation, compared to belimumab treatment, telitacicept treatment can save a total of ¥57751.00, including expenses of drug usage and treatment of complications. Meanwhile, it gained 0.499 quality adjusted life years, resulted in a negative ICER. Telitacicept is more cost-saving than belimumab (Dominant). Conclusion: Under current pricing, treatment settings and efficacy data in China, telitacicept demonstrates superior cost-effectiveness compared with belimumab for long-term SLE management by reducing medication costs while delivering additional health benefits.