In this article, we will be looking at the 5 most used prescription drugs in the US. If you wish to see our detailed analysis of the generic drug market, head straight to the 20 Most Used Prescription Drugs in the US.
5. Amlodipine
Total Number Of Prescriptions: 69,786,684
Next on the list we have Amlodipine, which is sold under the brand names Norvasc and Katerzia. It is a calcium channel blocker drug used to treat coronary artery disease and excessive blood pressure. It is consumed orally and the typical side effects include swelling, tiredness, abdominal pain, and nausea.
4. Lisinopril
Total Number Of Prescriptions: 88,597,017
Lisinopril, sold under the brand name Zestril, is a medicine that belongs to the angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor class and is used to treat heart failure, excessive blood pressure, and heart attacks. It typically serves as the initial line of treatment for high blood pressure. Additionally, it is applied to those who have diabetes mellitus to prevent renal issues.
3. Metformin
Total Number Of Prescriptions: 92,591,486
Metformin, sold under the brand names Glucophage, Fortamet, and Glumetza, is the primary first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes, especially in overweight individuals. Additionally, it is applied to the management of polycystic ovarian syndrome.
2. Levothyroxine
Total Number Of Prescriptions: 98,970,640
Levothyroxine, commonly sold under the brand names Synthroid, and Levoxyl among others, is used to treat thyroid hormone insufficiency, especially the severe variant known as myxedema coma. Certain varieties of thyroid tumors may also be treated and prevented using it. In 2019, the global market for levothyroxine sodium was valued at USD 3440.6 million, and by the end of 2026, it is anticipated to have grown to USD 4183.4 million, with a CAGR of 2.8%.
1. Atorvastatin
Total Number Of Prescriptions: 114,509,814
The drug that tops the list is Atorvastatin with the highest total number of prescriptions of 114.50 million in 2022. It is sold under the brand name Lipitor and is a statin drug used to treat abnormal lipid levels and prevent cardiovascular disease in high-risk individuals. Statins are the first line of defense against cardiovascular disease.
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