Journal of Economics Theory
ISSN: OnlineISSN: Print 1994-8212
Abstract
This study investigates the claim that clinical efficacy of drugs and related interventions for Multiple Sclerosis (MS) are side tracked by financial cost and economic efficiency considerations. In addressing this central question and its practical implications, the study reviewed relevant pharmacoeconomic studies generated from online medical/scientific databases with attention devoted to the literature on discontinued/failed clinical trials. A survey of these trials was also conducted using registries from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and National Multiple Sclerosis Society in the United States. Survey results were tabulated and analyzed. The study sustains the validity of the initial claim concerning financial and economic considerations only to the extent that theoretical debates have extended and departed from the traditional scope and objectives of clinical efficacy. However, the same claim should be substantively qualified where it concerns actual applications and impact of cost and efficiency studies on discontinuing (or initiating) clinical testing and efficacy data collection for MS. The study suggests that expanded notions of clinical efficacy do not necessarily affect decisions to initiate or discontinue clinical trials for MS drugs but could help broaden or enhance our understanding of disease management options for MS sufferers.
How to cite this article:
Roger Lee Mendoza. Multiple Sclerosis: Is Clinical Efficacy Sidetracked by Health Economics?.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/jeth.2012.91.98
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1994-8212/jeth.2012.91.98