Dose rounding of chemotherapy in colorectal cancer: An analysis of clinician attitudes and the potential impact on treatment costs

Abstract

Aim: The aims of this study were to calculate theoretical cost savings of oxaliplatin dose rounding in colorectal cancer (CRC), and to assess clinician attitudes to chemotherapy dose rounding. Methods: Data were obtained from a prospective data repository (BioGrid Australia) from four hospitals regarding the use of oxaliplatin, given at a standard dose of 85 mg/m2. We examined potential cost savings for patients with a body surface area (BSA) between 1.77 m2 and 1.94 m2, resulting in a calculated dose up to 10% above 150 mg (a 100 mg and 50 mg vial). The attitudes of oncologists at these hospitals toward minor dose reductions were assessed. Results: From January 2003 to June 2008, of 676 pat..