Publication:

A cost variation analysis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder medications in the Indian market concerning Jan Aushadhi medications and their branded counterparts

Medications and pharmaceutical expenses constitute a significant portion of out-of-pocket health expenditures for households in India, posing a substantial financial burden. The objective of this study was to assess the cost differences among drugs utilized in the treatment of chronic obstructive pulmonary disorder (COPD), specifically comparing those available at Jan Aushadhi pharmacies with various branded drug formulations. In the study, we calculated the cost differences (in Indian Rupees), cost ratios, and cost variations by contrasting the cost of generic Jan Aushadhi medications with the most expensive and least expensive branded medications in the same category. Our study revealed that the price of branded drugs prescribed for obstructive pulmonary conditions was higher than that of generic drugs purchased from Jan Aushadhi pharmacies except in the case of doxophylline 400 mg tablet. The highest cost difference was observed in the combination drug of formoterol 6 mcg + fluticasone propionate 250 mcg inhaler (740 and 290). Cost variance and cost ratio were highest in salbutamol 4 mg tablets (2386%) and (24.86) respectively. Findings indicate that across all classes of drugs investigated, the costs associated with generic drugs in Jan Aushadhi centers were markedly lower than those associated with branded drugs. Medications offered by Jan Aushadhi pharmacies are more cost-effective than their branded equivalents, rendering COPD treatment more accessible and affordable for individuals with limited financial means.