Which pharmacoeconomic analysis is most appropriate for comparing treatment options for obesity based on the average cost per pound of weight loss?

The appropriate pharmacoeconomic analysis for comparing treatment options for obesity based on the average cost per pound of weight loss is cost-effectiveness analysis. This method evaluates the relative costs and outcomes of different treatment strategies, specifically focusing on the health outcomes achieved per unit of cost. In this case, the unit of outcome is the pound of weight loss, making cost-effectiveness the most suitable analysis.

Cost-effectiveness analysis provides a clear framework for assessing various obesity treatments by quantifying the effectiveness of each option in terms of weight loss, which is a direct and relevant outcome for patients seeking to manage their obesity. By calculating the average cost per pound of weight loss, healthcare providers and policymakers can determine which treatments offer the best value, allowing for informed decisions regarding resource allocation.

In contrast, cost-minimization would only be appropriate if the outcomes were equivalent across treatments, which is not applicable when specifically measuring weight loss outcomes. Cost-of-illness focuses on the economic impact of a disease, including direct and indirect costs related to obesity but does not specifically compare treatment options. Cost-utility analysis incorporates quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) as a measure of effectiveness, which is less relevant when the primary focus is solely on the cost per pound of weight lost