BACKGROUND
Pharmacogenomic tests that predict which asthma patients are likely to respond to β-agonists hold promise to improve care for asthma.
OBJECTIVE
To identify the clinical and economic circumstances under which a pharmacogenomic test that predicts response to β-agonists might or might not be an appropriate, cost-effective option.
METHODS
We synthesized published data on clinical and economic outcomes in adults 18-35 to project 10-year costs, quality-adjusted life years and cost-effectiveness of pharmacogenomic testing for β-agonist response.
RESULTS
Pharmacogenomic testing for β-agonist response conferred a cost-effectiveness ratio of $13,700 per quality-adjusted life year gained compared with no testing.
CONCLUSION
Pharmacogenomic testing for β-agonist response in individuals with asthma is potentially cost effective and should be pursued by test developers.