Cost-effectiveness analysis of using oral magnesium supplementation in the treatment of prediabetes.

Abstract

Evidence from clinical trials supports the efficacy of oral magnesium supplementation in the treatment of glucose-related disorders. Thus, we evaluate the cost-effectiveness of using oral magnesium chloride (MgCl₂) in prediabetes treatment. A cost-effectiveness analysis was performed. For such purpose, we used original information from a randomized controlled clinical trial. Analysis was carried out based on a health services provider perspective, a 10-year time horizon, and 3% discount rate for costs and effectiveness. Taking into account risk factor profiles, a Markov micro-simulation model was used, and a probabilistic sensibility analysis was performed. The oral MgCl₂ was dominant with lower cost and greater effectiveness as compared with placebo. As compared with placebo, 22.3% and 22.0% of men using MgCl₂ did not develop diabetes or cardiovascular disease. The cost per person of using MgCl₂ as compared with placebo, in the individuals without complications, was $2206 versus $4048 USD for men, and $1984 versus $3272 USD for women. The sensitivity analysis confirmed the robustness of the base case. Our results suggest that using oral MgCl₂ for at least 4 months, in adults with prediabetes and hypomagnesemia, is a cost-effective option for reducing complications and direct medical costs.