Cost analysis of antiepileptic drugs available in India

Abstract

Background: Epilepsy is one of the major causes of morbidity, mortality and needs long-term treatment. There is a wide range of variation in the prices of drugs marketed in India. Thus, a study was planned to analyse out cost variations of antiepileptic drugs available in Indian market. Methods: Minimum and maximum costs in rupees (INR) of antiepileptic agents manufactured by different companies, in the same strength and dosage forms were obtained from “current index of medical specialties” January ‑ April 2016. The cost ratio and percentage cost variation were calculated for each generic antiepileptic agent. Results: There is a wide variation in the prices of different brands of same antiepileptic agent in Indian market. The highest cost ratio and percent cost variation was found for divalproex 500 mg [(1:3.17) and 216.7], followed by lamotrigine 25 mg [(1:2.5) and 150], clobazam 10 mg [(1:2.47) and 147.3] and clonazepam 0.5 mg [(1:2.46) and 145.9]. Conclusions: The average percentage price variation of different brands of the same oral antiepileptic drugs in Indian market is very wide. Treatment of epilepsy has a long course with compliance being a key factor for successful treatment. Improved adherence to the treatment can be ensured by decreasing the cost of therapy, by changes in the government policies and regulations and creating awareness among treating physicians for switching to cost effective therapy.