Economic analysis of antibiotic regimens used in the treatment pharyngitis: a prospective comparison of azithromycin versus roxithromycin

The economic impacts in terms of cost and effectiveness (speed of resolution of symptoms) of 3- and 5-day courses of azithromycin and a 10-day course of roxithromycin were compared in a randomized, open study in patients with symptoms suggestive of β-haemolytic streptococcal pharyngitis. Direct medical costs and absence from work were recorded and symptom scores and compliance were used to assess the effectiveness of therapies. Although no differences between treatment groups in terms of overall clinical response rates were detected 2 and 4 weeks after the start of treatment, more rapid resolution of symptoms was achieved with 3- and 5-day courses of azithromycin than with a 10-day course of roxithromycin. There was also a significant reduction in the time absent from work in the azithromycin treatment groups. The total costs of care over the 4-week evaluation period were lower for the 3- and 5-day azithromycin courses (US$193.60 and US$195.30 respectively) than for roxithromycin (US$202.10). The major cost components were absence from work (58.6%), visits to the physician (15.3%) and utilization of antibiotics (14.9%). Compliance was significantly better (P < 0.01) in patients prescribed azithromycin for 3 and 5 days (58.0% and 42.9% respectively) than in those who received roxithromycin (20.3%) and a significantly longer symptom-free period (P < 0.01) was reported in azithromycin- compared with roxithromycin-treated patients. These findings support the hypothesis that a 3- or 5-day course of azithromycin is as effective as a 10 day course of roxithromycin in the treatment of patients with pharyngitis and is associated with lower costs. Furthermore, azithromycin is associated with faster resolution of symptoms and improved patient compliance.