33 Polypill Co-Prescription for at the Risk Asian Indian in Chronic Non-Communicable Diseases

Abstract

Abstract: Wald and Law’s original 2003 BMJ paper on the Polypill, introduced the idea although it used data from single risk factor intervention. Cardiovascular disease and Stroke is on the rise in developing countries. Formulating low cost generic drugs in a single pill, and conducting studies locally, could lead to a solution- the Polypill. Such Polypill has now arrived. This Polypill tackles the risk factors that increase chances of cardiovascular events such as hypertension, LDL cholesterol, glucose platelet aggregation, and increased homocysteine levels in the blood. It may contain antihypertensives, aspirin, statins, and folic acid all at doses lower than the standard dose. This decreases side effects seen with standard doses of these drugs. The current polypills must have ramipril, atorvastatin, aspirin or clopidogrel. The Polypill would necessitate considerable patient education. The general population could use it as a substitute for efforts towards lifestyle modification. Patients using the pill in conjunction with exercise and diet programs can achieve phenomenal results. The Polypill approach is one of a public health intervention, rather than physician based treatment. This will lead to a significant cost advantage, and significantly more patients receiving such an intervention, especially in lower income groups. The Polypill is suitable for three groups of people: a) Those who have suffered a previous myocardial infarct or stroke. Patient