Trends in Antihypertensive Drug Use in Spanish Primary Health Care (1990- 2012)

Abstract

Objective: This study aimed to describe the use of antihypertensive in Extremadura (Spain) from 1990 to 2012 and its economic impact. Method: Information on antihypertensive drug (ATC C02, C03, C07, C08, C09) utilization was obtained from the community pharmacy sales figures reimbursed by the Health System of Extremadura (Spain). Data were expressed in Defined Daily Dose (DDD) and DDD per 1000 inhabitants per day (DHD). Results: Antihypertensive consumption in Extremadura increased from 67.1 DHD in 1990 to 315.2 in 2012 (an increase of 3.7 times). Agents acting on the Renin-Angiotensin System (C09) are responsible for 75% of the total increase. Since 2007 the use of Angiotensin II antagonist increased over ACE inhibitors. Conclusions: The consumption of antihypertensive drugs in Extremadura increased remarkably in the last 23 years. In the last years the use of angiotensin II antagonist drugs is having a significant economic impact.