Cost-effective analysis of enalapril, amlodipine, and enalapril plus amlodipine combination in newly diagnosed patients of hypertension: A pharmacoeconomic comparison of the antihypertensive efficacy of drugs

Abstract

Hypertension (HTN) is a chronic condition with severe complications, so early detection and effective management are essential to prevent cardiovascular events and reduce the associated economic burden. This study aims to compare the cost-effectiveness of enalapril, amlodipine, and their combination in terms of blood pressure reduction, considering overall efficacy and economic implications. A prospective, observational cost-effectiveness analysis was conducted in 150 newly diagnosed hypertensive patients who were prescribed either enalapril (5 mg), amlodipine (5 mg), or enalapril plus amlodipine (2.5 mg each). The primary outcome was the difference in systolic and diastolic blood pressure between baseline and follow-up, as well as the evaluation of overall efficacy and cost. Based on the data, statistical analysis was carried out using ANOVA and post hoc Tukey tests for drug efficacy, and cost-effectiveness was compared using MS Excel. After 30 days, all treatments significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure (p = 0.0001). The combination therapy with a lower dose showed superior efficacy in blood pressure reduction and was most cost-effective, requiring less expense for a 1 mmHg reduction in blood pressure compared to individual drugs with a higher dose. Quality of life assessment favored low-dose combination therapy, with fewer reported adverse effects. The combinationof amlodipine and enalapril at a lower dose demonstrated superior cost-effectiveness, efficacy in blood pressure reduction, and a favorable impact on patients' quality of life compared to individual drugs at a higher dose. This suggests that combination therapy may be a preferred option in the management of hypertension, emphasizing the importance of considering both clinical and economic factors in treatment decisions.