Publication:

Comparison of different brands of centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxants: a cost analysis study

Background Skeletal muscle relaxants are structurally distinct drugs prescribed for reducing muscle spasms, pain, and hyperreflexia. Centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxants are manufactured by various pharmaceutical companies with variable price. The present study, aimed to analyze the cost variation of various brands of centrally acting skeletal muscle relaxants, so as to help the physician to choose the cost effective treatment.

Methods Current index of medical stores (CIMS) April 2018 and online literature were used as information guide to review the prices of drugs used in the treatment of musculo skeletal pain and spastic neurological disorders.

Results Among anti spasmodic group, thiocolchicoside 4 mg shows maximum price variation of 337.5%, whereas carisoprodol 350 mg shows the least variation of 0.1%. It is evident from antispastic group that baclofen 10 mg shows maximum price variation of 93.91% and 5 mg of Baclofen shows the least variation of 11.22%. It is observed that, among anti spastic group, a percentage prize variation of 93.91 for 10 mg and 11.22 for 5 mg baclofen. Largest % prize variation is seen in metaxalone + diclofenac sodium (400+50) mg as 525% and the least variation is observed in tolperisone+ paracetamol (150+325) mg as 3.88%.

Conclusions Centrally acting orally effective skeletal muscle relaxants are commonly prescribed for painful musculoskeletal and spastic neurological disorders. Physicians should give due importance for the cost of the drugs while selecting appropriate drug for musculo skeletal disorders.