Cost variation analysis of oral anti-diabetic drugs available in Indian market

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic progressive metabolic disorder associated with microvascular and macrovascular complications in type 2 DM. Oral anti-diabetic drugs (OADs) play an important role in regulating raised blood glucose levels and compliance to treatment. Aims and Objectives: The aims of this study were to evaluate cost variations of different brands of drug formulations in the management of DM. Materials and Methods: This study was an analytical study. Costs of various OADs were obtained from January to March 2022 edition of current index of medical specialties India. The cost ratio and percentage of variation among different drugs in the treatment of DM available in Indian Market and Manufactured by different pharmaceutical companies were analyzed. Results: The percentage variation in cost among commonly prescribed single OADs was found to be highest for sulfonylurea group of dugs Glimepiride 1 mg tablet (1.366%), followed by Biguanides, Metformin 500 mg tablet (809%), α-Glucosidase inhibitors, and Voglibose 0.3 mg tablet (571%), while it was lowest for Glibenclamide 5 mg tablet (36%) and Acarbose 25 mg tablet (36%) of sulfonylurea drugs and α-Glucosidase inhibitors group of drugs, respectively. In combination drug therapy, Glibenclamide and Metformin combination (1.25 + 250 mg tablet) shows maximum variation (132%). Conclusion: There is a wide difference existing in the cost of various oral anti-diabetics available in Indian Market by different brands. The physicians must be aware of these variations and prescribe medicines accordingly, while considering the financial status of patient and also to promote adherence to treatment.