Cost of beta-adrenergic receptor blocking agents for ocular hypertension.
We compared the cost per drop and cost per year of therapy for five commercially available ocular beta-blockers (Timoptic, Betagan, Betoptic, Betoptic S, and Optipranolol) based on retail prices in Philadelphia, Pa; New Orleans, La; and San Francisco, Calif. Variations in bottle volumes and drop size combined to yield up to a 48% differential in number of drops per bottle. Average retail price variations were 28% within brands (between pharmacies), 29% between brands, and 29% between regions. Yearly costs were consistently less with larger bottles. Factoring drops-per-bottle, cost of brand, and cost by pharmacy, the cost of a year's supply of beta-blocker in 5-mL bottles in the least expensive region (New Orleans) ranged from $52.25 for Optipranolol to $278.91 for Betagan (534% of the price for Optipranolol). The marked differential in yearly cost among antiglaucoma medications should perhaps be a factor in the recommendations made by physicians and health-care providers.
LSU Eye Center, Louisiana State University Medical Center School of Medicine, New Orleans 70112-2234.
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D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists / Q000191:economics*; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D016527:Drug Costs; D006801:Humans; D009798:Ocular Hypertension / Q000188:drug therapy*; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions
D000319:Adrenergic beta-Antagonists; D009883:Ophthalmic Solutions