What is the Clinical Effectiveness and Cost- Effectiveness of Erythropoietin-Stimulating Agents for the Treatment of Patients with Cancer-Treatment Induced Anaemia? Insights from Cumulative Meta-Analyses (CMA) and Lessons for Cost-Effectiveness Analyses

Abstract

A617vs. MPT via MP showed a statistically not significant advantage for VMP regarding survival outcomes. Significant benefits were observed for CR and development of any grade 3-4 AEs favouring VMP. ConClusions: Analysis of both aggregated and individual patient data essentially lead to the same conclusions, i.e. VMP and MPT seem more effective than MP, VMP seems ahead of MPT regarding response criteria and adverse events. We found significant between-trials heterogeneity, however no consistent relationship of effect and study-level covariates (e.g. maintenance dosing) was apparent. Thus, we relied on the random effects approach to metaanalysis to cope with the unexplained trial-to-trial variability. Our results may best be confirmed by a head-to-head trial of VMP vs. MPT.