Summary
A study published in JAMA Network Open shows that the drug pantoprazole can help hospitals save money while benefiting critically ill patients. It is used to prevent stomach bleeding in patients on ventilators, leading to shorter hospital stays and lower treatment costs.
Key Facts
- Pantoprazole is a cheap drug that costs about 50 cents per dose.
- It helps prevent stomach bleeding in ICU patients on ventilators.
- The study included 4,821 patients from 68 intensive care units worldwide.
- Patients receiving pantoprazole spent less time in ICUs and hospitals on average.
- The drug reduced hospital costs by nearly $5,000 per patient.
- Researchers found it was 99% likely to be both more effective and cheaper.
- The study supports using pantoprazole routinely for suitable ICU patients as it offers cost savings and health benefits.
