DRUG UTILIZATION STUDY OF MEDICATIONS USED FOR ACNE VULGARIS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL
*Dr. Sneha Agarwal, Dr. Ajita Pillai, Dr. Anil P. Singh, Dr. Reena Pareek, Dr. Neela V. Bhuptani
ABSTRACT
Objective: To evaluate drug utilization pattern of medications used for Acne vulgaris, so as to facilitate the rational use of drugs in population. Materials and Methods: This prospective study was carried out for a period of 14 months in Dermatology, Venereology & Leprosy department of a tertiary care teaching hospital. Data was collected from physicians’ records and documented in predesigned case record form. Results: Among the total of 1164 prescriptions analysed 72 drugs were prescribed which included 28 (38.8%) single oral drug formulations, 41(56.9%) topical preparations and 3 (4.2%) fixed dose combinations (FDCs). Vitamins were the most commonly prescribed oral drug. Among the topical preparations 55 % had single drug and 45% had combination of steroids, antibiotics and antifungals. On an average 4.01 drugs per encounter were prescribed in our study suggesting polypharmacy. Furthermore, 52% of drugs were prescribed by generic name. In our study 65% of the drugs were prescribed from the National Essential Medicines (NLEM) List, India and 57% of drugs were prescribed from the WHO Essential Medicines List. Conclusions: The percentage of drugs prescribed from NLEM and the prescription of drugs by generic names was found to be satisfactory. Present study showed polypharmacy which may lead to wide spectra of problems. Hence, overall prescribing in our set-up requires formulation of guidelines to be used for appropriate and more rational use of medications in acne vulgaris.
Keywords: Acne vulgaris, dermatology, drug utilization pattern, polypharmacy, Fixed Dose Combinations.
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