Impact of Switching to Generic Antihistamines in Norway
Author Information
Author(s): Thorn Fredrik, Celius Halvor, Ødegård Tone, Mandla Randeep, Hexeberg Erik
Primary Institution: Nordstrand Legesenter, Oslo, Norway
Hypothesis
How does switching from branded to generic antihistamines affect patient outcomes?
Conclusion
The mandated switch to generic antihistamines led to decreased symptom control and work productivity among patients.
Supporting Evidence
- 46.3% of respondents rated the new medications as less effective.
- 28.7% reported increased fatigue after switching.
- 31.6% experienced decreased work productivity with the new medications.
- 26% of respondents switched back to their previous medication.
Takeaway
When patients switched to cheaper allergy medicines, many felt they didn't work as well and had more tiredness, which made it harder for them to work.
Methodology
Patients completed a 25-item online survey assessing their experiences after switching medications.
Potential Biases
Responses were only from patients who had to switch medications, which may skew results.
Limitations
There was no control group, and results may not apply to all allergy patients.
Participant Demographics
{"sex_distribution":{"female":66.3,"male":33.7},"age_distribution":{"18-25":35,"26-35":67,"36-45":101,"46-55":122,"56-65":84},"diagnosis_distribution":{"pollen_allergy":63.7,"other_nasal_allergy":15.2,"skin_allergy":6.9,"other":14.3}}
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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