Cost-effectiveness of alternative medications in the treatment of duodenal ulcer.

This study examines the differential costs of various medications in the treatment of duodenal ulcer. Two approaches are taken. The first estimates the (differential) cost per year of life before relapse can be expected to occur, for five different medications. The second approach estimates the cost of treating a duodenal ulcer over a 5-year period during which ranitidine, cimetidine, or colloidal bismuth subcitrate (CBS) is used in the initial course of treatment. Expected rates of relapse and the probability of receiving maintenance therapy are taken into account. The results of both approaches suggest that CBS costs considerably less than other medications to achieve a similar outcome. It is concluded that, as well as the clinical benefits associated with slower relapse, the potential economic benefits of CBS are substantial.