OBJECTIVES: The aim of the present analysis is to investigate the impact of launching inebilizumab on the market, in the second-line treatment of neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder.

METHODS: In order to develop the analysis, a systematic literature review was started to identify the burden of disease for patients with neuromyelitis optica seropositive for anti-aquaporin-4 immunoglobulin G (IgG AQP4). 107 studies emerged from the search strategy, which are currently being screened for the extrapolation of the most relevant. In addition, a budget impact analysis was developed to determine the financial-economic impact resulting from the introduction of inebilizumab for the Italian National Health System.

RESULTS: Inebilizumab emerges as a viable second-line alternative for the treatment of neuromyelitis optica. In fact, the analysis showed that in the three-year horizon since its introduction, it results in total savings to the Italian National Health Service of €11,817,073, as a result of a reduction in both acute attacks and adverse events.

CONCLUSIONS: The introduction of inebilizumab has shown progressive savings in health care resources for the NHS over the time horizon considered. In addition to the savings in economic terms, it allows alleviating the workload of hospitals, due to fewer needed administrations and reduced complications arising from its use.