EVALUATION OF ANTIMICROBIAL PRESCRIBING TRENDS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL: A CROSS-SECTIONAL DRUG UTILIZATION STUDY
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Keywords
Antimicrobial agents, Drug utilization study, Prescribing pattern, WHO indicators, Antimicrobial resistance
Abstract
Irrational use of antimicrobial agents is a major contributor to the growing problem of antimicrobial resistance (AMR), especially in tertiary care hospitals. Periodic evaluation of prescribing patterns is essential to promote rational antimicrobial use.
Objectives: To evaluate the prescribing patterns of antimicrobial agents in a tertiary care hospital using World Health Organization (WHO) prescribing indicators and to assess their rationality.
Methods: A hospital-based cross-sectional drug utilization study was conducted over a period of six months in a tertiary care teaching hospital. Prescriptions containing at least one antimicrobial agent were included. Data were analyzed for demographic characteristics, number and class of antimicrobials prescribed, route of administration, fixed-dose combinations, use of generic names, and adherence to WHO core prescribing indicators.
Results: A total of 600 prescriptions were analyzed. The mean age of patients was 46.2 ± 17.8 years, with a male predominance (58%). The average number of drugs per prescription was 4.1 ± 1.3. Antimicrobials were prescribed in 100% of the included prescriptions, with an average of 1.8 antimicrobials per prescription. Beta-lactam antibiotics were the most commonly prescribed class (42%), followed by fluoroquinolones (18%) and aminoglycosides (14%). Parenteral antimicrobials accounted for 54% of prescriptions. Only 38% of antimicrobials were prescribed by generic name, and 62% were from the National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM).
Conclusion: The study revealed a high use of broad-spectrum and injectable antimicrobials with suboptimal generic prescribing. Strengthening antimicrobial stewardship programs, promoting adherence to standard treatment guidelines, and regular prescription audits are essential to ensure rational antimicrobial use.
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Dr. Sameer Balasaheb Dharrao
Associate professor, Department of Pharmacology, Dr.Vasantrao Pawar Medical college,Hospital and research centre,Adgaon Nashik
Dr Rahul Chavan
Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacology, SMBT Institute of Medical Sciences and Research Centre, Dhamangoan, Nashik
