Pharmacoeconomic Analysis of Chemotherapy Regimens in Breast Cancer Management; An Oncology Pharmacoeconomical Approach

Abstract

Background: Pharmacoeconomic evaluation of breast cancer drugs is essential due to their high treatment costs. Comparing therapeutic options and associated expenses supports better decision-making and helps optimize resource utilization. Increased clinician awareness of pharmacoeconomic principles can enhance patient outcomes while reducing overall treatment costs. This study aims to evaluate the pharmacoeconomic aspects of different therapeutic regimens used in the management of breast cancer.Materials and Methods: A 12-month prospective observational and economic study was conducted at Bharath Hospital and Institute of Oncology (BHIO), Mysore, Karnataka. A total of 204 breast cancer patients receiving chemotherapy and meeting study criteria were included. Data from patient records and questionnaires were analyzed to evaluate the Pharmacoeconomics of chemotherapy regimens.Results: A total of 204 patients (mean age 52±8.9 years) were included. Adriamycin, Cyclophosphamide, and Paclitaxel (Regimen 1) were most prescribed (34.31%). Average management cost was ₹2,93,114.67; direct and indirect costs were ₹6,16,591.7 and ₹8,374.11, respectively. Adjuvant treatment averaged ₹3,25,807, and neoadjuvant ₹15,88,77.5 Regimen 1 showed most cost-effective, with 28.57% excellent and 68.57% moderate quality of life. Costs were significantly higher in adjuvant settings.Conclusion: Breast cancer treatment places a considerable economic strain on both patients and healthcare systems. Enhancing health insurance and resource-sharing strategies is crucial to reduce this burden. Additional support services may also be needed to ease patient expenses. Conducting pharmacoeconomic assessments of available treatment options can assist policymakers in allocating healthcare resources more efficiently for cancer management.

Keywords: Chemotherapy; Pharmacoeconomic evaluation; Cost-effectiveness; Breast cancer