Abstract
Background: Cephalosporins stand as one of the most frequently prescribed antibiotics for combating infectious diseases. This group has proven to be effective in the treatment of both gram positive and gram negative infections. Analysis of price discrepancies among various brands of oral cephalosporins offers guidance for prescribing cost-effectively, which turns out to be beneficial for both the patient and the prescribing physician. A cost-effective prescribing pattern ensures good patient compliance and better treatment outcome.

Aims and Objectives: The objectives of the study were to analyze price variation of various single oral cephalosporin formulations available in the Indian market.

Materials and Methods: The prices of oral cephalosporins, produced by different pharmaceutical companies in India, with the same strength, were acquired from the current index of medical specialties, January-April 2023. The cost of generics was obtained from the official website janaushadhi.gov.in. The disparity between the highest and lowest prices of the identical formulation manufactured by different companies, the difference between the maximum and minimum prices of brand-name versus generic versions of the identical formulation, as well as the cost ratio and percentage cost variation, were computed.

Results: Total number of brands range from 3 to 79 for various drugs. A large price variation was seen across the different brands. The maximum price variation 521.11% was seen with 100 mg of Cefixime and minimum price variation of 14.13% was seen with 125 mg of cefdinir.

Conclusion: With the high variation in prices seen among the different drugs it is important to consider the affordability of the patient before prescribing the drug to ensure completion of the course and better treatment outcome.

Key words: Cost Variation Analysis; Cephalposporins; Generic Drugs