Glaucoma medical treatment--2002: does yearly cost now equal the year?

Authors :: Doyle JW
Smith MF
Tierney JW Jr
Source :: Optometry and vision science : official publication of the American Academy of Optometry [Optom Vis Sci] 2002 Aug; Vol. 79 (8), pp. 489-92.
Publication Year :: 2002
Abstract: Background: To review costs of the wide array of glaucoma medications available today as well as patient-assistance programs.<br />Methods: Potential yearly costs for current frequently used single and multiple drug therapies were determined, taking into account the actual (not labeled) volume of drops in the bottled medications. Alternative modes for obtaining medications, such as compassionate-use programs, were also surveyed.<br />Results: "Maximum" medical therapy may cost over $2000 per year. Allergan, Ciba, Merck, Pharmacia-Upjohn, and Alcon offer patient-assistance programs of variable simplicity of use.<br />Discussion: The cost of maximum glaucoma medical therapy can assume a significant proportion of an elderly patient's yearly income.

Subjects :: Antihypertensive Agents therapeutic use
Drug Therapy economics
Glaucoma drug therapy
Health Care Costs
Humans
Ophthalmic Solutions economics
United States
Antihypertensive Agents economics
Drug Costs
Glaucoma economics

Language :: English
ISSN :: 1040-5488
Volume :: 79
Issue :: 8
Database :: MEDLINE
Journal :: Optometry and vision science : official publication of the American Academy of Optometry
Publication Type :: Academic Journal
Accession number :: 12199540
Full Text :: https://doi.org/10.1097/00006324-200208000-00010