Trends in Lipid-Lowering Agent Consumption in Croatia: A 25-Year Observational Study.

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases are the leading cause of mortality worldwide, with dyslipidemia as a major modifiable risk factor. This study aimed to assess 25-year trends in lipid-lowering agent consumption in Croatia from 2000 to 2023. We conducted a population-based analysis using IMS and IQVIA databases, calculating drug utilization in defined daily doses per 1000 inhabitants per day (DDD/1000) and evaluating financial expenditures and prescribing patterns. Over the study period, total lipid-lowering drug consumption increased more than 30-fold, from 4.91 DDD/1000 in 2000 to 152.56 DDD/1000 in 2023. Statins, particularly atorvastatin and rosuvastatin, drove this trend, while the uptake of PCSK9 inhibitors and ezetimibe reflected an evolving therapeutic landscape. Financial expenditures peaked in 2010, declined until 2015, and rose again by 2023, with average drug prices per DDD decreasing significantly. The observed increase in lipid-lowering therapy correlated with enhanced adherence to international guidelines and expanded patient access. However, administrative barriers and restrictive reimbursement policies continue to limit optimal utilization of newer agents. These findings underscore the importance of evidence-based policy development to address clinical inertia and improve cardiovascular outcomes in Croatia.