Cost variation analysis of commonly prescribed drugs in dentistry available in the Indian market

Abstract

: Access to healthcare stands as fundamental to human rights under the UN charter. Pharmaceutical costs are the fastest-growing healthcare expense. There is a significant variation in the cost among different brands of the same drug. Various economic evaluation techniques are used to analyze the cost of medicines.: The present study aims to analyze the cost variation of commonly prescribed drugs manufactured by various pharmaceutical companies under different brand names. : The minimum and maximum cost in rupees (INR) of drugs used in dentistry manufactured by various pharmaceutical companies of the same strength were recorded. The cost of 10 tablets or capsules was calculated. The cost ratio and percent cost variation were determined for each drug. : A significant variation was found in the cost of different brands of the same drugs. A percent cost variation of 1300% was found for Metronidazole 500mg, followed by 520% for Ibuprofen 400mg. Significant percent price variations were also observed for Tramadol 50 mg (477.7%), Levocetirizine 10mg (354.5%), Diclofenac 50 mg (260%), Cefixime 200 mg (224%), and Tetracycline 500 mg (218%).: Since there is a significant cost variation among different brands of the same drug, clinicians need to consider drug costs while prescribing medication to patients.