Workplace costs associated with acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis: a comparison of moxifloxacin and levofloxacin.
Past research on acute exacerbation of chronic bronchitis (AECB) has not quantified related work loss. This exploratory study used data from a comparative trial of moxifloxacin versus levofloxacin to examine and compare workplace-related indirect costs. Both groups reported considerable absenteeism and lowered work productivity. However, patients taking moxifloxacin reported significantly higher work productivity than those taking levofloxacin (70% vs. 50%; P = .03). This translated into substantial indirect cost savings with moxifloxacin of $726/patient/year. Antibiotic choice in AECB can affect worker productivity and workplace-related indirect costs. Both insurers and employers should consider workplace-related indirect costs in addition to direct medical expenses when making formulary selections.
Bayer Corporation, West Haven, Connecticut, USA.
J
J
Li-McLeod
E M
EM
Perfetto
D000041:Absenteeism; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000890:Anti-Infective Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D001991:Bronchitis / Q000188:drug therapy* / Q000191:economics*; D002908:Chronic Disease; D017281:Cost of Illness; D003362:Cost-Benefit Analysis; D004526:Efficiency; D017049:Employer Health Costs; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D064704:Levofloxacin; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D015242:Ofloxacin / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D014481:United States
D000890:Anti-Infective Agents; D064704:Levofloxacin; D015242:Ofloxacin