Trends in brand and generic drug utilization for dermatology providers from 2013-2019.

backgroundPrescription drug costs have risen considerably in the United States and are projected to reach $560 billion by 2028.

objectiveTo evaluate brand and generic drug utilization and cost proportions within Medicare Part D.

methodsPrescription data for dermatology providers were obtained from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services 2013-2019 Medicare Part D Prescribers by Provider datasets. Percentage of brand vs. generic drug claims and costs and cumulative annual growth rates (CAGRs) were calculated. For the most recent year of data (2019), we conducted additional sub-analyses for calculated percentages by prescriber variables.

resultsThe proportion of brand drug claims increased from 7.4% (in 2013) to 10.5% (2019) with a CAGR of 8.66%. In comparison, generic drug claims increased at a lower rate (CAGR 4.47%). The percentage of brand drug costs increased from 27.5% (in 2013) to 75.1% (2019). LIMITATIONS: Inability to assess and generalize data for prescription patterns under non-Medicare plans.

conclusionsOur study demonstrates a disproportionate rise in dermatologic brand drug claims and a substantial increase in costs associated with brand drugs. Brand-name drugs are associated with higher out-of-pocket expenses for patients, which can lead to decreased access and adherence to treatment.