A pharmacoeconomic study on cost variation of dyslipidemic drugs available in Indian market

ABSTRACT

Background: Dyslipidemic drugs are widely prescribed drugs in atherosclerosis, as it is a chronic illness the long term need of this medication creates a financial burden on the patient, especially with patients of low socioeconomic status. Considering this government of India established Jan Aushadhi medical store with a view to provide cheaper generic medicines, so that a good patient compliance is achieved. Aims and Objectives: The aim of the study was to analyze the cost variation of the dyslipidemic drugs available in Indian market under generic and various brand names manufactured by different pharmaceutical industries. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted to analyze the cost variation of dyslipidemic drugs available in different formulations in our Indian market. The information on cost of each drug with its dosage and formulation was obtained from “Current index of medical specialties” October 2021–January 2022 India and from Jan Aushadhi Price list W.E.F October 2015. Cost ratio and percentage variation among different strength and formulation in dyslipidemic drugs were calculated. Results: The highest cost difference was seen between the minimum cost brand of simvastatin 20 mg tab with its generic drug cost (142.8). Lowest cost differences between minimum brand cost and generic drug was observed for atorvastatin 10 mg tab (17.48). Conclusion: Knowledge about wide cost difference between branded and Jan Aushadhi dyslipidemic drugs helps clinicians to select budget friendly drugs for patients with low socioeconomic status.