ECONOMIC EVALUATION OF BRANDED, GENERIC, AND BRANDED-GENERIC MEDICINES AVAILABLE THROUGH ONLINE PHARMACIES IN INDIA: A CROSS-SECTIONAL ANALYSIS FOR METFORMIN

Abstract

Diabetes mellitus is among the most common chronic diseases globally and contributes substantially to healthcare expenditure. Metformin remains one of the most widely prescribed first-line oral antidiabetic agents because of its effectiveness, safety profile, and cost-effectiveness. A pilot study design: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted to evaluate price differences among Metformin 500 mg tablet formulations available through online pharmaceutical platforms. Study period for data collection was performed 15 to 30 MAY 2026. From available formulations a total of 30 marketed formulations of Metformin 500 mg and 500 mg SR/XR from different manufacturers were identified from online pharmaceutical platforms and included in the analysis. Compare to lowest price available cost per tablet with highest cost of medicine per tablet cost range from 200 to 237 % higher. Products approved by regulatory agency (CDSCO) is expected to meet predefined standards related to identity, purity, strength and manufacturing quality. The higher-priced products should not automatically be interpreted as possessing superior pharmaceutical quality or clinical effectiveness.