PRESCRIPTION PATTERNS AND SAFETY EVALUATION OF CORTICOSTEROIDS IN A TERTIARY CARE SETTING, NORTH INDIA

Main Article Content

Davendra Kumar
Shalini Gupta
Raj Kumar Goel
Vivek Kumar Rishi
Amol Gite

Keywords

Prescription patterns, Safety evaluation, Corticosteroids

Abstract

Corticosteroids are widely used in various medical conditions due to their potent anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive properties. However, their long-term use can lead to significant adverse effects. This study aimed to evaluate the prescription patterns and safety of corticosteroids in a tertiary care setting.


Objectives: To assess prescription patterns and safety evaluation of drugs in patients using different corticosteroids.


Material & Methods: An observational prospective study was conducted by the Department of Pharmacology in L.L.R.M Medical College, Meerut, UP. Data were collected from admitted patients. Inclusion criteria encompassed patients prescribed corticosteroids, while exclusions involved those with incomplete medical records, critically ill, pregnant, and non-consenting patients.


Results: The study included 165 patients, with a mean age of 39.85 ± 11.15 years. The demographic analysis revealed a male predominance (61.21%). The most prescribed corticosteroids were methylprednisolone, hydrocortisone and dexamethasone; primarily administered intravenously (65.83%). The average number of drugs per prescription was 8.95 with corticosteroids at 1.21 per prescription.


Conclusion: The study revealed that corticosteroids were commonly prescribed for respiratory and rheumatologic conditions. The most frequently prescribed corticosteroid was methylprednisolone. The findings suggest that corticosteroids are effective in managing various conditions, but their use requires careful consideration of risks and benefits.

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