Pharmacoeconomic aspects and formulary considerations related to histamine2-receptor antagonists

Since the introduction of cimetidine in 1977, hospital expenditures for the histamine2-receptor antagonists have steadily increased, making them one of the most costly classes of therapeutic agents. As a result of cost considerations, we reviewed the available antiulcer agents in our hospital and evaluated the potential for therapeutic interchange within this group of agents. We found that by using famotidine as the principal agent in our hospital, drug cost savings of approximately $65,000 were realized. Additionally, avoiding the administration of approximately 13,000 parenteral doses with the selection of famotidine resulted in further reduction of drug administration costs. We conclude that the histamine2-receptor antagonists represent a cost-effective target for pharmacy cost-containment programs, without affecting patient therapeutic outcomes.