| ARTICLE |
|
|
|
|
|
| Year : 1999 | Volume
: 41
| Issue : 2 | Page : 100-103 |
Drug Treatment in Schizophrenia : Issues of Comparability and Costs
K Girish1, Pratima Murthy2, Mohan K Issac3
1 Resident, Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore-560029, India
2 Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore-560029, India
3 Professor & Head, Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore-560029, India
Correspondence Address:
Pratima Murthy
Associate Professor, Department of Psychiatry, National Institute of Mental Health and Neurosciences, Bangalore-560029
India
 Source of Support: None, Conflict of Interest: None  | Check |
PMID: 21455370 
Pharmacological intervention is the commonest mode of managing patients with schizophrenia. Both clinicians and patients are concerned that antipsyohotic drugs are costly and contribute to poor drug compliance in India. This study compared the equivalent doses of antipsychotic drugs and their costs across brands. Results show that antipsychotic drugs are affordable and are comparable to drug treatment costs of other physical illnesses. However, coprescription of drugs add to the burden. Numerous brands and a 2-2Vz fold difference in cost raises many concerns including that of drug bioavailability. Hence, the authors recommend consensus and formulation of guidelines for the pharmacological management of schizophrenia.
[PDF]*
|
