The Efficacy, Safety, and Economic Outcomes of Using Ferric Derisomaltose for the Management of Iron Deficiency in China: A Rapid Health Technology Assessment

Abstract

Intravenous (IV) iron supplementation is the preferred treatment option for managing severe iron deficiency (ID) and ID anemia (IDA). Three of the available IV iron preparations are ferric derisomaltose (FDI), ferric carboxymaltose (FCM), and iron sucrose (IS). The objective of the present work was to review the published literature about the efficacy, safety, quality of life (QoL), and economic outcomes of using FDI, FCM, and IS for the treatment of ID. A systematic literature search was performed following Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. Eligible studies were assessed for quality using appropriate tools, and data were extracted and analyzed for key outcomes. The evidence synthesis was based on published systematic literature reviews (SLRs), meta-analyses (MAs), indirect treatment comparisons (ITCs), and health technology assessments (HTAs); we also included economic evaluations performed from a Chinese perspective. Out of 337 initial hits, the review included 12 studies. The findings indicated that FDI, FCM, and IS had comparable efficacy in terms of hemoglobin (Hb) improvement. FDI showed a better safety profile with a lower risk of hypophosphatemia, hypersensitivity reactions, and cardiovascular adverse events (AEs) compared to IS and FCM. FDI also demonstrated better cost-effectiveness compared to IS, with potential cost savings attributed to fewer infusions and improved compliance. None of the included studies evaluated QoL after IV iron administration for ID. FDI offers a safe, efficacious, and cost-effective treatment option for ID. It exhibits comparable efficacy to FCM and IS but presents a better safety profile and economic advantage. FDI fulfills the criteria of efficacy, safety, economy, innovation, suitability, and accessibility, making it a promising choice for ID management in China.

Keywords: cost-effectiveness; efficacy; ferric carboxymaltose; ferric derisomaltose; iron deficiency; iron sucrose; rapid health technology assessment; safety.