Publication:

A study to evaluate prescribing pattern and cost minimization analysis of antihistamines among patients of allergy

Background Allergy is a hypersensitivity disorder of the immune system of the human body. In this study we selected CMA, It evaluates the cost differences between two or more medication from one group and with a similar clinical effect and then determines the least costly alternative. This helps in making best possible decision ensuring the maximum available benefits from every penny spent to achieve reasonable value for money.

Methods This prospective observational study was conducted to assess the prescribing pattern and cost minimization of antihistamines in patients of allergy in a tertiary care teaching hospital. 210 outpatient and inpatient prescriptions of patients coming to tertiary hospital during the period July 2015 to July 2016 were studied and the most commonly prescribed antihistamines identified and their cost different between branded and generic versions analysed.

Results Most commonly prescribed antihistamine is cetrizine followed by levocetrizine and fexofenadine.

Conclusions This study demonstrated a significant price difference, ranging from 4% to 83.75% between the branded and generic version of given drugs. This in turn is leading to an increase in the cost of total treatment.