Analysis of the use of digoxin immune Fab for the treatment of non-life- threatening digoxin toxicity

Abstract

Background: Studies indicate that digoxin toxicity often results in lengthy hospitalizations and considerable costs, both of which may be decreased through the routine use of digoxin immune Fab (FAB). Methods: A computer-based decision analysis model was developed to compare the treatment of non-life-threatening digoxin toxicity with either FAB or standard therapy from the hospital perspective. A cost-minimization analysis was then performed to compare overall total costs (primary endpoint) for each treatment branch. A secondary endpoint of length of hospital stay (LOS) was also compared between the 2 groups. Clinical variables (serum digoxin concentration [SDC], creatinine clearance [Clcr], and body weight), event probabilities, and other model-specific variables were varied in univariate and multivariate sensitivity analyses. Results: FAB was associated with an incremental cost of $54 compared with standard therapy ($2,784 vs. $2,730, respectively) but reduced LOS by 1.5 days (1.5 days vs. 3.0 days, respectively). Sensitivity analyses show that FAB is less costly at SDC > 3.5 ng/mL and Clcr < 22 mL/min. FAB reduced LOS at SDC > 2.3 ng/mL. Monte Carlo simulation revealed that FAB was less costly in 37% of the cases and reduced LOS 72% of the time compared with standard therapy. Conclusions: The abbreviated LOS associated with the use of FAB in patients with non-life- threatening digoxin toxicity may translate into lower treatment costs in many clinical scenarios, making it a cost-saving alternative to standard therapy in patients with high SDC and renal dysfunction.