Efficacy and cost-effective analysis of benzyl benzoate, permethrin, and ivermectin in the treatment of scabies and azithromycin versus doxycycline in the treatment of acne vulgaris

Abstract

Background: Acne and scabies are significant skin diseases and treatment of which carries major economic burden in Indian scenario. We planned study to compare safety, efficacy, and economy of treatment modalities of scabies for permethrin, benzyl benzoate, and ivermectin and acne for doxycycline and azithromycin. Hence, we can provide better treatment option for acne and scabies based on cost-effectiveness, efficacy, and safety. Aims and Objectives: This study aims to study therapeutic efficacy and cost-effective analysis of treatment in acne vulgaris and scabies. Materials and Methods: A multicentric, prospective observational study was carried out with patients attending the outpatient department of 32 health-care centers of Wardha district. One hundred and forty-eight patients of acne and 124 patients were screened, of which 108 patients of acne and 120 patients of scabies were analyzed for therapeutic efficacy. Of 120 scabies patients, 52 patients took benzyl benzoate lotion, 48 patients received permethrin cream, and 20 patients received tablet ivermectin. In acne, 60 patients received tablet azithromycin and 48 patients received tablet doxycycline. Cost-effective analysis was done. Results: In scabies, efficacy was near 93% for all therapeutic agents, but benzyl benzoate (INR 15.01 per case) and ivermectin (INR 16.07 per case) are more cost effective than permethrin (INR 21.55 per case). In acne, azithromycin (62.2%) and doxycycline (60%) showed similar efficacy, but doxycycline (INR 112 per case) is more cost effective than azithromycin (INR 216 per case). Conclusion: Therapeutic efficacy was similar for all therapeutic agents in both acne and scabies. Benzyl benzoate and ivermectin are more cost effective than permethrin in scabies. In acne, doxycycline is more cost effective than azithromycin.