A review of the cost-effectiveness of vedolizumab for treating moderate- to severely active ulcerative colitis

INTRODUCTION: Vedolizumab is a novel humanised monoclonal IgG1 antibody gut selective anti-integrin specifically targeting α4β7 integrins in the gut and found to be efficacious in the treatment of ulcerative colitis. Areas covered: Research investigating the cost-effectiveness of vedolizumab is limited. This review considers data from the manufacturers, the evidence research group commissioned by NICE to conduct a single technology appraisal, and the decision of NICE itself to appraise what is currently known about the cost-effectiveness of vedolizumab for moderately to severely active ulcerative from a UK perspective. Expert commentary: Based on the very limited data currently available, it can be concluded that vedolizumab is a cost-effective option for those with moderately to severely active ulcerative colitis who are anti-TNFa naive; however, there is a need for further research comparing vedolizumab with other biologic therapies which may alter perceptions of cost-effectiveness.