Express Scripts data shows almost 2 percent increase in prescription drug spending

Express Scripts said Tuesday that workers’ compensation pharmacy spending increased 1.9 percent in 2014 and a 5.4 percent decrease in utilization assisted in offsetting a 7 percent increase in the cost per prescription.

The increase in overall pharmacy spending, detailed in The Express Scripts 2014 Workers' Compensation Drug Trend Report, shows the efficiency of utilization management programs.

"As drug prices continue to increase, payers now more than ever are looking to contain costs by implementing effective programs that ensure safe and appropriate use of opioids," Workers' Compensation Product, Compliance and Strategic Initiatives Senior Vice President Jennifer Kaburick said.

The report also said nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, used in treating pain and inflammation, increased 13.4 percent to reach $158.33 per user per year; antidepressants and dermatologicals decreased 19.6 percent and 10.9 percent, respectively; and while specialty medications represent less than 1 percent of all medications used by injured workers, spending on these drugs increased 30.4 percent between 2013 and 2014, largely driven by expensive medications to treat hepatitis C.

The Express Scripts 2014 Workers' Compensation Drug Trend Report is available at Lab.Express-Scripts.com. Printed copies also will be available at the Risk Management Society Conference from April 26 to April 29 in New Orleans.