Fixed dose combinations: A formulary decision guide

Introduction: Fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) are marketed with the promise of optimum patient adherence, improvement in the disease management and lower cost. P&T decision makers commonly overlook some factors that may render a FDC a poor choice. Method: A working group utilizing a three-step modified Delphi method to develop consensus of a checklist of factor to consider when evaluating a FDC product for formulary inclusion. Results: The group developed a comprehensive list of factors that are to be considered when evaluating a FDC for addition and included point related to: evidence of improved outcomes, synergistic effect, chronic indication, total number and frequency of doses, potential for medication errors, separate indications for each component, use in extemporaneous preparation, drug patency expiry, and cost Impact Conclusion: Determining whether a FDC has benefits to a health care organization requires careful review of the evidence, practicality, and cost. Funding: None (c) 2021 Fellowship of Postgraduate Medicine. Published by Elsevier Ltd. This is an open access article under the CC BY-NC-ND license ( http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/ )

Automated summary

Determining whether a fixed-dose combination (FDC) is beneficial to a healthcare organization requires a comprehensive consideration of evidence, practicality, and cost.