Drug prescribing pattern in dermatology unit of ayder referal hospital
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Drug prescribing pattern in dermatology unit of ayder referal hospital
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Haftay Berhane Mezgebe, Martha kifle, Minyahil Alebachew Woldu
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Full text available for: Drug prescribing pattern in dermatology unit of ayder referal hospital
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study analyzed drug prescribing patterns in the dermatology unit of Ayder Referral Hospital in Ethiopia, focusing on the rationality of prescriptions and the prevalence of certain dermatological conditions. A total of 210 patient charts were reviewed in a retrospective cross-sectional study conducted to gather data regarding the types and specifications of medications prescribed. The findings highlight the extensive use of topical corticosteroids and the average number of drugs prescribed during outpatient consultations.
Dominance of Topical Corticosteroids
Topical corticosteroids emerged as the most frequently prescribed medications, accounting for 29.94% of all drugs dispensed. This category of medication is crucial in treating inflammatory skin conditions, providing necessary therapeutic effects. Alongside corticosteroids, antifungals (21.79%) and antibiotics (15.27%) were also significant in the prescribing pattern, reflecting common dermatological ailments such as Tinea capitus and acne vulgaris. This prevalence indicates the essential role that topical corticosteroids play in dermatological therapy.
Prescribing Practices and Polypharmacy
The analysis revealed that the average number of drugs prescribed per patient was four, with a significant number of prescriptions (40.95%) consisting of two drugs. This situation points to a potential concern regarding polypharmacy, as 24.29% of prescriptions contained only one drug and only 7.62% contained four drugs. The study emphasizes the need for prescribers to be mindful of the total drug quantity to minimize the risks of adverse drug interactions and enhance treatment efficacy by advocating for fewer medications per prescription.
Brand Name Preference and Lack of Generic Prescribing
A notable finding from the research was the predominant use of brand names for prescribing medications. Only 19.38% of the medications were prescribed using their generic names, while a staggering 94.57% were issued as brand-name drugs. This trend raises questions about accessibility and affordability for patients, particularly those from lower socio-economic backgrounds who depend on prescribed medications. The lack of trust in the quality of generic alternatives could be influencing this prescribing behavior, leading to increased healthcare costs for patients.
Conclusion
In summary, the study underscores that while topical corticosteroids are vital in dermatological treatment, the overall practices surrounding drug prescribing raise significant issues regarding polypharmacy and a preference for brand-name medications. There is an urgent need for improvements in prescribing habits, including encouraging the use of generic names and ensuring that prescribing information encompasses details about the frequency of application and duration of treatment. These changes could help in enhancing the rationality of drug therapy in the dermatology unit and ultimately improving patient outcomes.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the main objective of the study conducted in Ayder Referral Hospital?
The main objective was to evaluate the drug prescribing pattern in the dermatology unit, analyzing the types of drugs prescribed and the rationality of their use.
Which drugs were most commonly prescribed in the dermatology unit?
Topical corticosteroids were the most commonly prescribed drugs at 29.94%, followed by antifungals at 21.79% and antibiotics at 15.27%.
What was the average number of drugs per prescription recorded?
The study found that the average number of drugs per prescription was four, indicating a relatively high level of polypharmacy.
How were corticosteroids mostly prescribed in terms of naming?
A significant majority of the corticosteroids, about 94.57%, were prescribed by brand name, while only 19.38% were prescribed by their generic name.
What was the most prevalent dermatological condition among patients?
Tinea capitus was the most prevalent condition, affecting 17.10% of male and female patients in the dermatology unit.
What recommendations were made based on the study's findings?
The study recommended minimizing the average number of drugs per prescription, encouraging the use of generic names, and ensuring full prescribing information such as dosage and application frequency.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Drug prescribing pattern in dermatology unit of ayder referal hospital”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Drug:
In the context of dermatology, drugs refer to the various medications prescribed to treat skin conditions. The study highlights the commonly prescribed categories, including topical corticosteroids, antifungals, and antibiotics. Understanding the patterns of drug use is essential for improving patient outcomes and ensuring rational prescribing practices in clinical settings.
2) Study (Studying):
Studying drug prescribing patterns is vital for understanding current practices and identifying areas for improvement in healthcare. The study in question highlights the importance of analyzing drug use in dermatology to enhance patient care, ensure the rational use of medications, and optimize overall treatment outcomes.
3) Table:
Tables in the document present essential data, such as patient demographics, prescribing patterns, and disease prevalence. They allow for a structured visualization of information, making it easier to comprehend the study’s findings. Tables are critical for summarizing complex data and supporting the analysis with clear, statistical representations.
4) Male:
The study included a demographic breakdown of male and female patients attending the dermatology unit. It was found that the majority of patients were male, particularly in the 11-20 age group. Understanding gender distribution helps in analyzing the incidence and prevalence of various skin diseases and tailoring treatments accordingly.
5) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Anti-bacterial agents, which include antibiotics, are crucial in treating bacterial skin infections. The study discusses commonly prescribed anti-bacterial medications and their relevance in treating dermatological diseases, illustrating the significant role of these classes of drugs in patient management within the dermatology unit.
6) Teaching:
The study's findings are relevant to medical teaching, emphasizing the need for future healthcare professionals to understand rational prescribing practices. Incorporating data-driven examples from research can enhance the quality of education in pharmacology and dermatology, ultimately benefiting patient care in clinical settings.
7) Kumar:
Kumar likely refers to M. Ashok Kumar, one of the authors cited in the study. His research on drug prescribing patterns in dermatology supports the findings of this study. Recognizing previous work by researchers like Kumar helps contextualize new studies within the broader field of dermatological care.
8) Attending:
Attending refers to patients who visit the dermatology unit for consultation and treatment. Understanding the characteristics and needs of patients attending the unit is vital for healthcare providers to develop effective treatment plans and enhance overall patient care in dermatology settings.
9) Disease:
The study focused on various dermatological diseases, such as Tinea capitis and acne vulgaris, which were among the most prevalent conditions in the patient population. Understanding disease patterns is vital for effective treatment planning and identifying trends that can inform future research and healthcare practices.
10) Science (Scientific):
The study incorporates scientific principles, particularly in pharmacology and dermatology, to assess the rational use of medications. By applying scientific methods in clinical research, the study aims to enhance knowledge in dermatological practices and improve patient outcomes through evidence-based medicine.
11) Indian:
Indian refers to the context of the studies and practices relevant to India, where the research was conducted. It provides insights into the drug prescribing patterns unique to the Indian healthcare system and emphasizes the need to consider local practices in the broader global context of dermatology.
12) India:
India is central to the study, as it investigates drug prescribing patterns in dermatology within an Indian hospital setting. The findings can help address medication use issues particular to India, promoting rational prescribing and ensuring better healthcare delivery in this specific geographical context.
13) Knowledge:
Knowledge in this context refers to the understanding required by healthcare providers to prescribe medications effectively. The study aims to improve prescribers' knowledge on rational drug use, thereby enhancing treatment outcomes and ensuring safety in prescribing practices within dermatological care.
14) Medicine:
Medicine encompasses the field of healthcare involved in diagnosing and treating diseases, including dermatological conditions. The study emphasizes the importance of evidence-based medicine in promoting rational prescribing practices, to ensure the effective treatment of skin diseases while minimizing risks and promoting patient safety.
15) Developing:
Developing countries often face unique challenges in healthcare, including irrational drug use, which can be exacerbated by limited resources. The study highlights the importance of understanding drug prescribing patterns in developing nations like Ethiopia to provide feedback and improve prescribing practices in dermatology.
16) Account:
Account in this context refers to the necessity of documenting and analyzing the prescribing patterns to understand the underlying factors influencing clinicians' choices. Whether considering the types of medications prescribed or the demographic characteristics of patients, accurate accounting is essential for effective research and improvement.
17) Discussion:
The discussion section of the study interprets the findings and contextualizes them within existing literature. This critical analysis helps develop insights into prescribing behaviors, disease prevalence, and the implications of findings for healthcare practices and educational efforts in dermatology.
18) Practising (Practicing):
Practicing in a clinical context refers to the application of medical knowledge in real-world settings. The study advocates for practitioners to implement evidence-based methods in their prescribing habits, enhancing treatment efficacy and patient outcomes while also reducing the risk of adverse drug events.
19) Kathmandu:
Kathmandu is included as a reference location in the document, indicating its relevance in studies related to drug prescriptions and healthcare practices. The findings and practices discussed may share parallels with those in Kathmandu, providing comparative insights into dermatology-related healthcare in different geographic contexts.
20) Shailaja (Sailaja, Shaila-ja):
Shailaja likely refers to K. Shailaja, another researcher mentioned in the context of prior studies. Her contributions to the understanding of prescribing patterns and dermatological care underscore the collaborative nature of research and the importance of integrating diverse perspectives for comprehensive analysis.
21) Quality:
Quality refers to the standard of care patients receive, particularly concerning treatment effectiveness and safety in prescribing medications. The study aims to enhance the quality of dermatological care by analyzing prescribing patterns and encouraging a move towards more rational and effective treatment approaches.
22) Mineral:
Minerals are essential components often used in dermatological treatments, as they can have beneficial effects on skin health. Understanding how mineral-based therapies fit into the overall prescribing patterns in dermatology can inform better treatment strategies and contribute to holistic patient management.
23) Surface:
Surface in the context of dermatology typically pertains to the skin's outer layer where various treatments, such as topical medications, are applied. Recognizing the significance of surface treatment can improve prescribing practices by ensuring that healthcare providers choose the most effective formulations for patients' conditions.
24) Kerala:
Kerala is referenced as a location that provides context for comparing drug prescribing behaviors. By analyzing practices in Kerala alongside those in other regions, researchers can better understand regional variations in dermatology care and formulate recommendations that tailor to specific population needs.
25) Martha:
Martha refers to one of the co-authors of the study, Martha Kifle, who contributed to the research on drug prescribing patterns in dermatology. Acknowledging individual contributions is essential to highlight the collaborative effort behind the study and the shared responsibility for the findings presented.
26) Reason:
Reason refers to the underlying justifications and motivations for prescribing practices identified in the study. Understanding these reasons is crucial for improving patient care, as it helps clinicians reflect on their prescribing habits and enhances their clinical decision-making processes.
27) Rati:
Rathi may refer to Sanjay K. Rathi, who is mentioned in related studies. His work adds to the body of research on drug prescribing patterns in dermatology, contributing valuable insights that can inform future clinical practices and enhance the quality of dermatological healthcare.
28) Giri:
Giri refers to B. R. Giri, another researcher whose work has been cited in the context of understanding prescribing patterns in dermatology. Collaborations and citations among researchers highlight the importance of cumulative knowledge in advancing the field of dermatological medicine and improving patient outcomes.
29) Lion:
Lion in this context symbolizes strength or dominance, possibly referring to the dominance of topical corticosteroids in dermatological prescribing practices. The metaphor emphasizes the significant role these medications play in treating skin conditions, akin to the lion's place at the top of the food chain within its ecosystem.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Drug prescribing pattern in dermatology unit of ayder referal hospital’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Antibiotic, Evidence-based medicine, Atopic dermatitis, Acne vulgaris, Female patient, Retrospective study, Duration of treatment, Doxycycline, Site of application, Antifungal, Polypharmacy, Cross-sectional study design, Generic name, Therapeutic benefit, Brand name, Frequency of application, Topical corticosteroid, Patient Knowledge, Tinea Capitis, Competing interests, Male patient.
Concepts being referred in other categories, contexts and sources.