Objective: To use the System of Objectified Judgement Analysis (SOJA) method for the rational selection of Helicobacter pylori eradication therapies for formulary inclusion. Design: Drug selection for the eradication therapy of H. pylori is made by means of the SOJA method. In this formulary...

The utility of antibacterials in the management of acute exacerbations of chronic bronchitis (AECB) and the related lung pathology, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), has been debated for decades. Data presented in this article document that more expensive antimicrobials may be...

To accurately assess any therapeutic class or specific agent for inclusion in the hospital formulary, a consistent evidence-based review process should be followed. Utilization of any therapeutic class, including the proton pump inhibitors, is more efficient if a single agent is used throughout...

Recent changes in the healthcare system have prompted the growth and management of disease and health management strategies in the US. Most of the initiatives include a heavy emphasis on the pharmacotherapy component as it has been noted that effective therapies can lead to improvement in care...

The National Institute for Health and Clinical Excellence (NICE) has been using a cost-effectiveness threshold range between Lstg 20_000 and Lstg 30_000 for over 7 years. What the cost-effectiveness threshold represents, what the appropriate level is for NICE to use, and what the other factors...

Indirect and mixed treatment comparison (MTC) approaches to synthesis are logical extensions of more established meta-analysis methods. They have great potential for estimating the comparative effectiveness of multiple treatments using an evidence base of trials that individually do not compare...

From 1 January 1999, all requests by pharmaceutical manufacturers and others to Blue Cross and Blue Shield (BCBS) of Colorado and Nevada for the listing of new pharmaceutical products or any proposed change to the formulary status of an existing product must be accompanied by a submission which...

Documented launch delays and the ensuing debate over their underlying causes have focused on assessment from the individual country's perspective. Seen in a larger game theoretical framework this may cause problems, because although the countries see an individual game, the pharmaceutical firm...