Pharmacoeconomics

Natl Med J India. 2004 Mar-Apr;17(2):80-3.

Abstract

Pharmacoeconomics focuses on the costs and benefits of drug therapy and pharmacoeconomic evaluations provide a basis for resource allocation and utilization. It is increasingly becoming important for health policy decision-making. A pharmacoeconomic evaluation may be conducted as an economic assessment incorporated into clinical trials. Such trials should compare the new drug/procedure with an older drug or existing intervention. Four techniques are used for economic evaluation, namely, cost-minimization analysis, cost-effectiveness analysis, cost-utility analysis and cost-benefit analysis. The choice of the evaluation method depends on the nature of outcomes and the context in which the choices need to be made. Pharmacoeconomics is a young science that will improve with application. Its need is undeniable, especially in developing countries.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Clinical Trials as Topic / economics
  • Cost-Benefit Analysis / methods
  • Decision Making
  • Drug Costs
  • Economics, Pharmaceutical*
  • Health Policy / economics
  • Health Services Research*
  • Humans
  • Resource Allocation