ORAL NON-STEROIDAL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS IN PAKISTANI PHARMACEUTICAL MARKET: A PRICE VARIATION ANALYSIS

Abstract

ABSTRACT

Objective:

This study aimed to analyze the price variation of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) available in the Pakistani pharmaceutical market. The goal was to identify the extent of price differences among brands of the same generic drug and understand how this variation affects patient affordability and compliance.

Method:

A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted using data from www.druginfosys.com on seven different generic NSAIDs, each with five brands. All brands had identical formulation, dose, and quantity. Price data were collected to calculate the cost ratio (maximum price/minimum price) and percentage cost variation for each drug.

Result:

Aspirin showed the highest price variation at 2703.7%, while naproxen had the lowest at 39.9%. Other generics exhibited significant price differences, including ibuprofen (385.6%), diclofenac (66.6%), celecoxib (172.7%), indomethacin (246.1%), and piroxicam (129.8%). These findings reveal substantial price disparities for the same medicines across different brands.

Conclusion:

The study highlights significant price variations of NSAIDs in Pakistan, adversely affecting patient affordability and compliance. Regulatory interventions, improved pricing policies, and collaborative efforts among regulatory bodies, healthcare providers, and manufacturers are essential to ensure affordable NSAIDs therapy and reduce economic burdens on patients