Cost Analysis of Disease Modifying Anti Rheumatic Drugs: The Indian Scenario

Abstract

Background: Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic, autoimmune and inflammatory disease affecting the joints and cartilages, eventually leading towards deformity and resultant disability. Today’s rheumatologists have an armamentarium of Disease Modifying Anti Rheumatic Drugs (DMARDs) to choose from. The chronicity of the disease, resultant deformities and reduced work capacity adds to the socioeconomic burden of the disease. This study aims to compare the costs of various brands of DMARDs (both biological and non-biological agents), so as the give the readers an idea about the cost range and variation present amongst the available DMARDs. Materials and Methods: Current Index of Medical Specialties (CIMS India) application was accessed in the month of August 2020 to note the cost of various brands of DMARDs. The information was tabulated. The cost difference and percentage cost variation was calculated and compared. Results:The maximum number of brands was available for methotrexate amongst the biological as well as non-biological agents. Least and highest percentage cost variation was observed for 2.5 mg strength of methotrexate and 100 mg of cyclosporine, respectively. In general, biologicals had fewer brands in the market as the cost was considerably higher than the non-biological agents. Conclusion:There is a wide variation amongst the costs of various DMARDs. This has its own advantages. Conscious choice of economical brands can profoundly effect the socioeconomic burden of rheumatoid arthritis management.