Abstract

ASPECTS OF GENERIC DRUG POLICY IN THE TREATMENT OF PAEDIATRIC ASTHMA

Anna Todorova* and Antoaneta Tsvetkova

ABSTRACT

The promotion of production and supply of generic drugs following the patent expiration of brand name drugs is an integral part of the government health policy intended to provide better access to healthcare at lower costs for the patients and the society alike. Our study explored the changing drug use patterns and the shift from brand-name products to generic medications containing montelukast 5 mg. The study was based on data analysis of asthma medications fully or partially reimbursed by the NHIF (National Health Insurance Fund). The study encompassed medications that had been prescribed and dispensed to paediatric patients in the age group of 6-12 years within the period 2008 – 2013. Study findings indicated a significant increase in the use of generics, which exceeded the branded drug use twofold. This also affected the overall use of montelukast 5 mg, as evidenced by its average growth rate of 339.3% within the above mentioned period. Our study findings indicated an effective generic drug policy that facilitated the increased use of montelukast through better healthcare access and improved disease prevention.

Keywords: asthma, children, generic drugs, generic drug policy, montelukast 5 mg.