Cutting costs, not quality: A cost minimization analysis of diabetes care at Northwest General Hospital and Research Center.

Abstract

Objective: To conduct a pharmacoeconomic evaluation and cost-minimization analysis of commonly used anti-diabetic medications, specifically comparing the costs of branded and generic versions of Empagliflozin and Metformin prescribed at Northwest General Hospital, Peshawar. Study Design: Cross-sectional, Retrospective Cost Minimization Analysis (CMA). Setting: The Northwest School of Medicine, Peshawar. Period: 3^rd June 2024 to 3^rd Jan 2025. Methods: This CMA was conducted by analyzing 202 prescriptions from 105 patients receiving anti-diabetic therapy. Retail prices of both branded and generic drug formulations were collected from local pharmacies. To ensure therapeutic equivalence, a UV spectrophotometric assay was used to compare active pharmaceutical ingredient concentrations between branded and generic products. Results: Metformin 500 mg and Empagliflozin 10 mg were the most commonly prescribed drugs. Generic versions demonstrated comparable bioavailability to branded counterparts. However, substantial cost differences were observed, with generic formulations offering significant savings. The average cost burden per patient was notably lower with generics, suggesting they are a viable and cost-effective alternative. Conclusion: Generic anti-diabetic medications, when bioequivalent, provide a cost-effective alternative to branded drugs without compromising efficacy. Promoting the use of generics in clinical practice can help reduce the financial burden on patients and improve access to essential diabetes care in resource-limited settings.