Cost Savings Using a Stepped-Care Prescribing Protocol for Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs

Abstract

Objective.\p=m-\To lower nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) costs while maintaining quality patient care and clinician satisfaction.Design.\p=m-\Before and after 21-month Conclusions.\p=m-\Fordrugs with similar benefits and adverse effects, a "stepped formulary" approach requiring an initial trial of one of the less expensive agents can maintain physician prescribing choices and satisfaction while lowering costs. (JAMA. 1996;275:926-930