Key result
Increasing generic ACE inhibitor use would have saved Medicaid ~$75 million.
Why the study?
Utilization and spending patterns of ACE inhibitors and ARBs in the Medicaid fee-for-service program from 1991 to 2008 were not well described, and potential cost savings from increased generic ACE inhibitor use were unclear.
Observational
Significant Medicaid cost savings could be achieved by increasing the proportion of generic ACE inhibitor prescriptions relative to brand ACE inhibitors and ARBs.
No takes yet. Share an insight, caveat, or question.
Potential Medicaid savings from higher generic ACE inhibitor use are modeled but unconfirmed; leaves open real-world effects on outcomes and adoption.
Bian et al. (2010) conducted an observational in Medicaid fee-for-service pharmacy claims. ACE inhibitors and ARBs was evaluated on ACE inhibitor and ARB utilization and spending. In the Medicaid fee-for-service program, increasing the proportion of ACE inhibitors to 75% and utilizing 100% generic ACE inhibitors in 2008 would have saved approximately $75.1 million.
Synapse has enriched 5 closely related papers on similar clinical questions. Consider them for comparative context: