Desimplification of Single Tablet Antiretroviral (ART) Regimens—A Practical Cost-Savings Strategy?

INTRODUCTION: The use of lifelong antiretroviral therapy (ART) results in increased costs of care; the ability to finance and control sustained costs of ART needs to be discussed. APPROACH: The Southern Alberta Clinic initiated a practical cost savings approach that switched select patients from a branded ART to a less expensive generic variation. Our approach surveyed physicians and patients on their acceptance of switching and then launched a program asking patients if they would switch to generic variations for cost control purposes. RESULTS: Our early findings found >50% of patients approached agreed to switch. We found no evidence of increased risk of viral breakthrough, resistance, side effects, or displeasure with generic drugs. Measured cost savings in the first year were >$1.1 million with annual projected savings of between $4.3 million and $2.6 million (in 2017 Cdn$). CONCLUSION: Our approach can provide an option for controlling costs of HIV care without compromising quality.