A systematic review of the cost-utility of dapagliflozin for managing chronic kidney disease.

BACKGROUND

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a significant public health concern. Dapagliflozin has been demonstrated to improve the quality of life for patients with CKD. This systematic review aimed to summarize the available evidence regarding the costs and cost-utility of dapagliflozin in managing CKD.

METHODS

A systematic literature search was conducted from inception to October 24, 2025, using MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Scopus. Titles and abstracts were screened, followed by an eligibility assessment of full texts. The quality of the studies was evaluated using the Quality of Health Economic Studies (QHES) and Consolidated Health Economic Evaluation Reporting Standards (CHEERS) checklists. Cost-utility results were synthesized narratively.

RESULTS

The search strategies identified a total of 305 records, of which 8 articles were ultimately included in the review based on specified inclusion and exclusion criteria. All cost-utility studies were conducted over time horizons ranging from a lifetime to twenty years, with most outcomes derived from a single clinical trial. The highest incremental cost-utility ratio for dapagliflozin ($72,057.91/Quality-Adjusted Life Year) was reported in the USA. According to the available studies, adding dapagliflozin to standard care for CKD management is considered cost-effective from both the healthcare system and payer perspectives.

CONCLUSIONS

Incorporating dapagliflozin into standard care for managing CKD is generally regarded as cost-effective from both the healthcare system and payer perspectives. While dapagliflozin shows promise economically, further population-based studies are needed to confirm these findings.