Using pharmacoeconomics to assess the comparative value of antibacterials. A UK perspective.

In the UK there is increasing pressure on prescribers to contain drug costs, the only aspect of the healthcare budget about which information is readily accessible. However, this information is often incomplete, making choices between drugs difficult. By following a defined series of steps based on identification of clinical and practical differences between 2 drugs and an evaluation of the economic consequences of these differences, prescribers can use pharmacoeconomics to make difficult decisions regarding drug choices. In doing so, prescribers can ensure that the health service spends money to provide the maximum benefit for patients.