Economic Evaluation of Different Brands of Commonly Prescribed Drugs Used in the Management of Angina Pectoris in Indian Market

Abstract

Introduction: Coronary artery disease (CAD) is one of the most common causes of cardiovascular mortality and morbidity in developing countries like India. Initial management includes use of many anti- anginal drugs. If angina pectoris not managed adequately results in significant morbidity and mortality too due to the complications. Anti-anginal drugs are used for lifelong. Therefore, analysis of the price of different drugs used in ischemic heart disease will help to improve patient compliance. Objective: (1) To assess the cost variation of different drugs available as antianginal agents in India. (2) To assess the cost ratio and percentage price variation of different formulations. Method: The maximum and minimum price of each brand of the drugs given in Indian rupees (INR) was noted by using ‘Drug Today’ (Oct 2022 – Jan 2023, volume II). The cost range, cost ratio, and the percentage cost variation for individual drug brands were calculated. The cost of tablets/capsule was calculated, and the cost ratio and percentage cost variation of various brands was compared. Results: After calculation of cost ratio and percentage cost variation for each brand of anti-anginal drugs, tab Diltiazem (60 mg) had a maximum percentage cost variation of 459.76% and a cost ratio of 5.59 while tab GTN (6.4 mg) had a minimum percentage cost variation of 76.19% and cost ratio of 1.76. Conclusions: There is a wide variation in the price of different brands ofanti-anginal drugs available in India. The clinicians prescribing these drugsshould be aware of these variations to reduce the financial burden of drugtherapy and improve compliance.