Cost-minimization analysis of various pharmaceutical alternatives of clopidogrel bisulfate

Cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of death throughout the world. Various therapies are available but the increased cost of treatment is of great concern especially in developing countries. Clopidogrel is used extensively for various cardiac conditions but has a high price. Cost-minimization analysis (CMA) differentiates alternative therapies based on price, given that all of the interventions have exactly the same health effects and must be bioequivalent when it comes to health benefits and adverse effects. Dissolution studies, using four marketed products, were conducted using a six stage, type II dissolution apparatus. Samples were analyzed at 240nm using a UV VIS spectrophotometer. Concentration values of each sample, taken after 30 minutes were calculated from the calibration curve constructed with Clopidogrel Bisulfate. ANOVA was used to analyze any significant differences between the means of active dissolved. Plavix was found to have the highest percentage release of 97% but Ogrel had the least SEM of 3.9 with a percentage release of 95%. Lowplat and Pidogrel, although showed average percent releases of greater than 85%, their SEM and standard deviations were large showing widespread variations in unit contents. ANOVA gave a p>0.05, indicating a non-statistically significant difference between the means of active dissolved hence proving bioequivalence. CMA (cost minimization analysis) concluded that Ogrel may be used instead of the more expensive Plavix.