Utilization of Growth Hormone in Valencia Region, Spain, during the Period 2003-2007

Abstract

Background: The main goal is to analyze the evolution of the consumption of growth hormone (Somatropin) at the Valencia region (Spain). The research focuses on the period comprising 2003-2007 and aims at assessing the impact of the change in the conditions of dispensation of the hormone (May 2005) as well as of the approval of a new indication in 2004. We have also studied the number of treated patients and expenses saved in public money due to the denial of certain treatments. Methods: The patient data have been obtained from a proprietary database owned by the region’s government, this database contains information about the requests for treatment and the consumption of growth hormone has been obtained from database Gaia and drug consumption in the hospital. The data are expressed in terms of number of treated patients, consumed milligrams and cost. Results: The number of patients treated with growth hormone has increased 50% (from 346 patients in 2003 to 520 in 2007). The denial of requests for treatment has made it possible to save 3.912.253 €. The cost per mg of growth hormone has decreased from 27.35 € in 2003, when the hormone was dispensed in local pharmacy stores, to 22.34 € in 2007, when it was dispensed at hospital’s pharmacies. The change in the conditions in which the drug is dispensed has led to a reduction of 18.3% considering current costs. Conclusions: The number of treated patients has increased a 50% from 2003 to 2007. In this period of time has been approved a new indication. The cost/mg has been reduced a 18,3 % due to the change in the conditions of dispensation. The Advisory Committee has contributed to the utilization of growth hormone according to rational drug use criteria.