International comparison of drug consumption: impact of prices.

Cross-national comparisons in drug consumptions are usually made in terms of dollars spent annually per person on pharmaceuticals. Expenditure reflects consumption, however, if measured in the same or very similar prices. When drug prices in different countries vary significantly, the expenditure comparisons may create a false image of consumption. A comparative work has been undertaken covering six countries: France, Great Britain, Federal Republic of Germany, Italy, Switzerland and the United States of America. It appears that consumption of medicines has reached the highest level in France and Italy, while the highest spending occurs in Switzerland and the F.R.G.