Publication:

Cost variation among antiretroviral drugs: pharamcoeconomical prospective

Background Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a disorder caused by the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). Main characteristic feature of AIDS includes severe immunosuppression which leads to opportunistic infections which is a main cause of death and requires a lifelong therapy. There exists wide range of cost variation in antiretroviral drugs that are marketed in India. The current study aims to view the existing situation of antiretroviral drugs, by collecting data about the cost of common antiretroviral drugs available either singly or in combination and to evaluate the difference in cost of different brands of same active drug by calculating percentage cost variation.

Methods Data for calculating cost ratio and percentage price variation of various antiretroviral drugs was obtained from “Current Index of Medical Specialties” October 2017-January2018.

Results Zidovudine 100mg shows maximum cost ratio and price variation followed by Lamivudin 100mg in the single drug therapy. Lamivudine 150mg + Zidovudine 300mg shows maximum price variation in combination drug therapy.

Conclusions Indian market shows wide price variation of different brands of the same generic antiretroviral drug. To decrease the wide cost variation among different brands of antiretroviral drugs; it is time to create awareness among healthcare professionals about impact of cost effectiveness of drug regimen and decrease the financial burden on the patients.