Pharmacoeconomics of Rheumatic Diseases in the Arab World

Pharmacologic therapy constitutes an integral part of managing rheumatologic diseases, with a diversity of available options from simple molecules to complex biologics and a trending rise in the cost of therapy accompanying novel innovations. The application of pharmacoeconomic principles is thus of particular significance regarding drug therapy selection in rheumatology. Additionally, there is current global interest in adopting new health technology assessment models and value-based approaches to care delivery. The Arab world is no different, with potential country-specific roadmaps in draft or the initial phases of implementation involving key stakeholders from regulators, payers, manufacturers, health economists, and healthcare providers. This chapter will define basic concepts in health economics, shed light on rheumatologic disease burden and budget impact, and explore approaches to cost-effective therapies. We conclude with recommendations to support the adoption of biosimilars as cost-effective treatment alternatives, highlight barriers to their adoption, and suggest means to strengthen pharmacovigilance as the way forward.