An Analysis of Antiasthmatic preparations available in Indian Market

Objective: To analyse various anti-asthmatic preparations available in the Indian market and to study their cost effectiveness and rationality of drug preparations. Materials and methods: Various formulations which is used for asthma mentioned in Current Index of Medical Specialities (CIMS) (2018) were noted down. Their rationality and irrational combination of drug preparations were recorded as per Drug Controller General of India (DCGI) (2018). Moreover they are classified into number of ingredients present in each preparation, type of dosage forms, different pharmacological groups to which they belong and cost analysis of the anti-asthmatic preparations. Results: Among 598 preparations which has been analysed, 360 (60%) were fixed dose combinations (FDC). Out of 360 FDC, 250(42%) preparations were of irrational formulations. Preparations were categorised into different pharmacological groups like expectorants (18.73%), antihistamines (17.22%), beta 2 adrenergic agonists (50.17%), mucolytics (20.57%), cromones (1%), methylxanthines (16.38%), corticosteroids (24.08%), antileukotrienes (23.91%), anticholinergics (3.85%).187 preparations were inhalants and 10 of the preparations were nasal formulations. Solid formulations (244) are more when compared to other formulations and liquid oral formulations are costlier. Conclusion: Many of the drugs which was considered as irrational by DCGI is still available in Indian market and it is widely used by the people. This indicates the poor governance in the pharmaceutical sector. Through proper awareness and education to the pharmacist, physician and patient this problem could be solved. Moreover it also leads to the wasteful expenditure and effectiveness of the drug is also questionable.