engleski

Trends in Original and Generic Antipsychotic Drugs Usage in Croatia and Slovenia During the Nine-Year Period

OBJECTIVE: Antipsychotic agents are used primarily to manage psychosis, particularly schizophrenia and bipolar disorders. The objective of this study is to analyze and compare original and generic antipsychotic drug usage in two mid European, neighboring countries, Croatia and Slovenia, for the 9-year period, from 2000 to 2008. Further, the aim was to identify the price for DDD for original and generic drugs, and to identify the most prescribed drugs. METHODS: The data have been obtained from the International Medical Statistics database for Croatia and Slovenia. Drugs usage is presented in defined daily doses per 1000 inhabitants per day (DDD/1000) according to the WHO Methodology. Financial expenditure data are presented in Euros. An average cost per DDD was calculated for each drug group. RESULTS: In 2008, the total usage of antipsychotics was almost equal in Slovenia (12.3 DDD/1000 inhabitants/day) and in Croatia (11.1 DDD/1000 inhabitants/day), and increased in both countries during the investigated period. The difference is noticed in the rate of generic prescription. In 2008, consumption rate of generic antipsychotics was higher in Croatia (62.6% of totally prescribed antipsychotics were generics) than in Slovenia (40.7% of totally prescribed antipsychotics were generics). The average price of antipsychotics increased in both countries, but it was lower in Croatia than in Slovenia during the investigated period. The average price for 1 DDD of antipsychotics in Croatia was 1.61 EUR, and in Slovenia 2.17 EUR in 2008. The most prescribed antipsychotic in both countries is olanzapine. CONCLUSIONS: The observed tendency toward increased second generation of antipsychotic drug utilization is comparable to worldwide trends. Drug prescription patterns are similar comparing Croatia and Slovenia, but there is further potential for prescribing generics in Slovenia. There is a possibility for further price reduction in Slovenia. Although the generic drugs usage is relatively high in Croatia, it should be supported and promoted due to possible decreasing of costs to healthcare systems. The savings generated through lower prices of generics make it economically feasible for healthcare system.

antipsychotics; original; generics; trends; financial impact

nije evidentirano