OBJECTIVES: Retractions of scientific articles have increased over time, across different clinical fields, disease indications, and study designs. However, it is currently unknown if and how the phenomenon of retractions has impacted the literature of health economic modelling. This research aimed to investigate retractions of published health economic models. We sought to describe the characteristics of retracted models, identify reasons for retraction, and outline implications for health decision-making.

METHODS: We conducted a preregistered systematic review of economic models of any health interventions subsequently retracted, using Embase and Retraction Watch from inception to 2024. Publication details, including reasons for retraction, were extracted.

RESULTS: We identified 13 retracted health economic models originally published between 2006 and 2024. Retracted models evaluated a wide range of interventions (including pharmacological treatments) in a broad array of indications (including cancer, infectious diseases, and chronic conditions). Retracted models were published in 13 unique journals, 6 of which were top-tier outlets based on journal ranking. Retractions were rapid, with 9/13 models retracted within the same calendar year. Errors were the most common reason for retraction (8/13 models); these included errors in analysis, inputs, and/or model structure. Evidence of misconduct (plagiarism, duplicate publication, and peer review manipulation) was also found in 3/13 models. One model did not report a reason for retraction. Mean citation count was 3.9; despite rapid retraction, two models had 17 citations each.

CONCLUSIONS: As in other research designs, evidence for retractions of health economic models was found. Retracted models spanned a variety of disease indications, interventions, and journal sources. Errors and scientific misconduct were both documented as reasons for extraction. Despite retraction, models were subsequently cited in the literature. Stakeholders should be made aware of retractions, not just of clinical trials but also of economic models, as these may have an impact on health decision-making.