DRUG UTILIZATION STUDY IN PRIMARY GLAUCOMA PATIENTS ATTENDING OPHTHALMOLOGY DEPARTMENT OF TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Abstract

Background: Glaucoma, a chronic, progressive, asymptomatic disease. Around the world it is the second most common cause of blindness. It is characterized by raised intra ocular pressure and visual field defects. Early identification and appropriate treatment are crucial to prevent irreversible vision loss. This study hypothesizes that the prescribing pattern and costs of anti-glaucoma drugs significantly influences patient’s adherence and treatment outcomes in primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG).

Aims and Objectives: (1) To Determine the Prescribing Pattern of Drugs in Primary Open-Angle Glaucoma. (2) To evaluate the cost of various anti-glaucoma drugs prescribed in primary open-angle glaucoma treatment.

Material and Methods: An open-label, prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Pharmacology at SRMS IMS after obtaining approval from the institutional ethical committee. A total of 114 prescriptions of patients diagnosed with primary open-angle glaucoma were analyzed. Data collection included patient demographics, drug regimens, frequency of administration, and cost of prescribed medications. The prescribing patterns and cost analysis were evaluated using descriptive statistics, with frequency and percentage used for data analysis.

Results: The study analyzed 114 prescriptions of primary open-angle glaucoma patients, with a majority being male (63.9%) and aged 51-60 years (76.7%). Timolol was the most prescribed monotherapy (29.8%), while Timolol + Brinzolamide was the most common combination therapy (20.2%). Cost and adherence varied, with cheaper drugs requiring frequent dosing, whereas expensive options like Travoprost improved compliance with once-daily use.

Conclusion: Timolol is the most commonly prescribed and cost-effective monotherapy, while combination therapies like Timolol + Brinzolamide are used when monotherapy is inadequate. Cost significantly influences adherence, as cheaper drugs require frequent dosing, whereas expensive options like Travoprost improve compliance with once-daily use. A balance between affordability and effectiveness is crucial for optimal glaucoma management.