A study of various existing interventions for the treatment of hypertension in the Indian market under the Jan Aushadhi Scheme: A price control aspect for consideration by Journal of Health Policy & Outcomes Research

Aim: Analysis of the percentage price differences among the widely prescribed antihypertensive drugs available on the Indian retail market and under the Pradhan Mantri Bhartiya Jan Aushadhi Pariyojana (PMBJP) or the Jan Aushadhi scheme. Materials and Methods: The prices of frequently prescribed various antihypertensive brands were collected and organized by using latest Monthly Index of Medical Specialties. The price of 1 dosage form in INR of each brand was extracted. Based on the price of various brands, average price of each drug was calculated and compared with the price of PMBJP drugs. Additionally, literature review was performed to place the results in perspective. Results: The prices of prescribed antihypertensive medicines were analyzed and compared with PMBJP drugs. In monotherapy, Metoprolol 25 mg showed a maximum price difference of 89.08%; in combination therapy, Ramipril 5 mg plus Hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg indicates maximum price difference of 90.76%. In addition, Telmisartan 40 mg demonstrate 88.59%, Ramipril 5 mg plus Hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg demonstrate 90.76%, Ramipril 5 mg plus Hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg and Amlodipine 5 mg indicates 90.38% price variation in one treatment course based on the grading of hypertension. Further, on literature review 11 relevant articles were found which were consistent with the results of this study. Conclusion: The results of our study show huge differences between the prices of PMBJP drugs and branded drugs available in India. It suggests that moving towards PMBJP drugs may lessen the financial strain on the patients and their caregivers. The prescriber should make an informed decision and choose the cheaper antihypertensive drugs to lessen the financial burden on the patient leading to maximum patient adherence.