Stroke patient drug use patterns in a tertiary care hospital.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Drug utilization patterns of stroke patients in a tertiary care teaching 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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Shaik Afsar Pasha, Ch. Bhuvana, V. Kumudini, R.Haribabu, SK. Arif Pasha, B.Bhaskara Rao
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Drug utilization patterns of stroke patients in a tertiary care teaching hospital
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr201717-10419
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study conducted by Shaik Afsar Pasha et al. aimed to investigate drug utilization patterns among stroke patients in a tertiary care teaching hospital in Andhra Pradesh, India. The study highlights the concern of polypharmacy, which often leads to serious adverse drug interactions, particularly in patients with stroke. Effective drug utilization is essential for ensuring patient safety and improving health outcomes. The researchers sought to assess the prescribing patterns, the average number of drugs prescribed, and the conformity of these practices with World Health Organization (WHO) indicators and standard treatment guidelines.
Polypharmacy and Its Implications
One of the notable findings of the study was the high prevalence of polypharmacy among stroke patients. A considerable number of participants (8.5%) were reported to take more than 19 different medications. The data indicated that various patients were on multiple drugs, often prescribing more than 10. The categorization of medications revealed that a majority were antiplatelet drugs (82.8%), followed closely by anti-ulcer medications (75.2%) and antihypertensives (74.2%). This extensive medication usage raises concerns about the potential for drug interactions and adverse drug reactions, underscoring the need for rigorous monitoring of prescription practices.
The Role of Co-Morbidities
The study also emphasized the significance of understanding co-morbidities in stroke patients. Among the participants, hypertension (49.5%) and diabetes mellitus (37.1%) were the most prevalent co-morbid conditions. The presence of these co-morbidities not only complicates the management of stroke patients but also necessitates careful consideration when prescribing medications. The study highlighted that managing risk factors such as hypertension is critical for stroke prevention, indicating a need for targeted interventions to address these underlying health issues effectively.
Drug Prescribing Patterns
The analysis of drug prescribing patterns revealed a strong correlation with the common risk factors associated with strokes. The study found that the majority of the prescribed medications were aimed at mitigating these risk factors. Notably, antiplatelet drugs were the most commonly prescribed, reflecting their importance in stroke prevention. The use of aspirin and clopidogrel as combined therapy was prevalent, suggesting an emphasis on aggressive management of ischemic strokes. This finding aligns with global treatment guidelines and further illustrates the necessity of adhering to evidence-based practices in the treatment of stroke.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the study sheds light on the pressing issue of polypharmacy in stroke patients, along with the importance of managing co-morbidities effectively. It emphasizes the need for careful prescribing practices and regular audits of medication use to prevent adverse drug reactions and interactions. The results underscore the necessity for healthcare providers to maintain a rational drug prescribing approach that aligns with WHO standards while also considering the individual needs of patients. Enhanced patient education, ongoing follow-up, and monitoring could significantly contribute to improving medication adherence and overall patient outcomes in stroke management.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the main focus of the study on stroke patients?
The study focuses on drug utilization patterns among stroke patients, highlighting polypharmacy and prescribing practices to improve patient safety and adherence to treatment guidelines.
What percentage of patients experienced polypharmacy in the study?
The study found that approximately 8.5% of stroke patients were taking more than 19 medications, indicating a high incidence of polypharmacy among the patient population.
Which drugs were most commonly prescribed to stroke patients?
The most frequently prescribed medications were antiplatelet drugs (82.8%), followed by anti-ulcer medications (75.2%) and antihypertensives (74.25%).
What are the primary risk factors associated with stroke in the study?
Hypertension and age were the primary risk factors identified, with 49.5% of patients having hypertension and the highest age group being 61-70 years.
How does polypharmacy affect stroke patients according to the study?
Polypharmacy can lead to serious adverse drug reactions and interactions, making regular audits and patient monitoring essential to mitigate these risks in stroke care.
What recommendations does the study provide for improving drug prescriptions?
The study recommends regular audits of prescribing practices and patient monitoring to prevent adverse drug reactions, ensuring adherence to standard treatment guidelines.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Stroke patient drug use patterns in a tertiary care 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:
The term 'Drug' refers to any substance that causes a physiological change in the body when consumed. In the context of the study, medications prescribed to stroke patients are crucial for managing their condition. Drugs can prevent recurrent strokes, alleviate symptoms, and improve the overall quality of life for patients.
2) Study (Studying):
A 'Study' is a systematic investigation aimed at discovering new information or validating existing knowledge. This particular study focused on the prescription patterns among stroke patients, evaluating their medication adherence, and highlighting the prevalence of polypharmacy. Outcomes from such studies can influence healthcare practices and policies.
3) Pasha (Pasa):
Pasha is the surname of one of the lead authors, Shaik Afsar Pasha, who conducted the research. As an Associate Professor in the Department of Neurology, his expertise contributes significantly to the understanding of stroke management and drug utilization trends, emphasizing the importance of academic contributions to healthcare.
4) Table:
In the study, 'Table' refers to the structured representation of data that aids in understanding the findings easily. Tables summarize demographic information, medication usage, and other variables in a clear format, allowing for quick reference and analysis, which is essential in research to convey complex information succinctly.
5) India:
'India' is a country in South Asia, which presents unique healthcare challenges, including the management of stroke patients. The study is set in India and explores drug utilization patterns specific to the population, highlighting issues such as polypharmacy, healthcare accessibility, and the necessity for effective medication management.
6) Himaja (Hima-ja):
Himaja appears as a reference to a study conducted by another researcher. Citing experiences and findings from Himaja's research helps establish a comparative framework within literature, demonstrating consistency or variation in drug prescription practices, and underscores the broader relevance of the issue of stroke treatment across various settings.
7) Male:
'Male' signifies a gender category that is important for understanding demographics in the study population. The research indicated a higher percentage of male stroke patients, which can help in identifying risk factors and tailoring prevention strategies, as men's health issues may differ from those of women.
8) Developing:
'Developing' refers to nations that are in the process of economic progress and improving healthcare systems. In the context of this study, it highlights the challenges faced by such countries regarding drug supply, healthcare infrastructure, and the urgency to address healthcare disparities in managing chronic conditions like stroke.
9) Medicine:
'Medicine' encompasses the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing diseases. The study analyzes the prescribing patterns of various medications for stroke patients, emphasizing the role of proper medical interventions and guidelines that can enhance patient outcomes in managing their condition and maintaining health.
10) Ulcer:
'Ulcer' refers to a sore or break in the skin or mucous membrane, often linked to gastrointestinal issues. The study mentions anti-ulcer medications being prescribed to stroke patients, pointing to the need for comprehensive care in managing side effects or complications arising from chronic medication use in these patients.
11) Death:
'Death' indicates the end of life and is often a significant risk associated with severe health conditions like strokes. This study underlines the importance of medication adherence in preventing recurrent strokes that can lead to mortality, highlighting the necessity for effective treatment plans to improve survival rates.
12) Blood:
'Blood' is vital for overall health and is central to many health conditions, including strokes. The study references blood pressure as a risk factor for stroke, indicating how hypertension and other blood-related conditions can affect stroke incidence and outcomes, stressing the need for monitoring and management.
13) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
'Antibiotic' is a type of medication used to treat bacterial infections. The study mentions antibiotics among the drugs prescribed, indicating the concurrent management of infections in stroke patients. Understanding the role and appropriateness of antibiotic use in such cases is crucial to prevent resistance and ensure effective care.
14) Knowledge:
'Knowledge' refers to the information and understanding of drug use and safety. It is essential for both healthcare providers and patients in making informed decisions regarding medications. The study accentuates the need for patient education to prevent irrational drug use and promote adherence to prescribed regimens.
15) Quality:
'Quality' refers to the standard of care provided to patients, encompassing efficacy, safety, and adherence to treatment guidelines. The research aims to assess the quality of drug prescriptions among stroke patients in a tertiary care setting, identifying areas for improvement in prescribing practices and patient health outcomes.
16) Disease:
'Disease' is an abnormal condition affecting the body, with strokes being one of the primary concerns in this study. Understanding the nature, risk factors, and treatment of stroke helps in developing better therapeutic interventions aimed at reducing disease incidence and improving the long-term prognosis for affected individuals.
17) Andhra (Amdhra):
'Andhra' refers to the state in India where the study was conducted. Recognizing the geographical context is important, as healthcare dynamics such as resource availability, prevalent health issues, and cultural perspectives may vary, influencing the findings related to stroke management and drug utilization in the region.
18) Line:
'Line' can denote a line of thought or a methodological approach in research. In this context, it may also refer to guidelines or protocols for prescribing medications. Establishing a clear line of best practices ensures rational medication use among stroke patients, aiming for optimal therapeutic outcomes.
19) Discussion:
'Discussion' is an integral part of research articles that interprets findings, compares them with existing literature, and explores implications. In this study, the discussion section critically analyzes the results, offering insights into medication patterns, risks of polypharmacy, and recommendations for improving patient care in stroke management.
20) Alcoholism:
'Alcoholism' refers to a dependence on alcohol, which can be a risk factor for various health issues, including strokes. The study notes the occurrence of alcoholism among stroke patients, signifying the need for addressing lifestyle factors that may contribute to the incidence and management of such diseases.
21) Kumudini:
Kumudini is one of the co-authors involved in this research. The inclusion of Kumudini's contributions showcases the collaborative effort among researchers to investigate drug utilization patterns. Her involvement highlights the importance of diverse expertise in enhancing research integrity and the breadth of understanding in health studies.
22) Bhaskara:
Bhaskara is another co-author of this study, contributing to the research efforts surrounding stroke patient management. Co-authors like Bhaskara play a crucial role in bringing various dimensions to the research, enriching the findings by integrating clinical expertise and perspectives from multiple disciplines into the analysis.
23) Teaching:
'Teaching' refers to the process of imparting knowledge and skills. In the context of this study, it relates to the educational role of healthcare professionals in training medical students and staff about appropriate prescribing practices, ensuring that future healthcare providers are well-equipped to manage stroke patients effectively.
24) Pregnant:
'Pregnant' refers to women expecting a child, whose care often requires a different approach to medication management. The study excludes pregnant women due to complexities around the impact of medications on both maternal and fetal health, emphasizing the need for tailored treatment strategies in this vulnerable population.
25) Vertigo:
'Vertigo' is a medical condition characterized by a sensation of spinning or dizziness. The study notes anti-vertigo medications as part of the treatment regimen, indicating that stroke patients may experience such symptoms. Understanding and managing vertigo effectively is essential in ensuring the overall well-being of stroke survivors.
26) Science (Scientific):
'Science' is the systematic study of the structure and behavior of the physical and natural world. This research exemplifies the application of scientific methods in evaluating drug utilization patterns in stroke management, helping identify best practices and contributing to the advancement of medical knowledge in the field.
27) Sign:
'Sign' refers to an indication or evidence of a condition or process. In the study, clinical signs of stroke are crucial for diagnosis and subsequent treatment. Recognizing signs ensures timely intervention, which is vital in stroke management, directly influencing patient outcomes and reducing the risk of complications.
28) Life:
'Life' encompasses the condition that distinguishes animals and plants from inorganic matter. The study emphasizes improving the quality of life for stroke patients through appropriate medication management, aiming to minimize disability and enhance health outcomes, thereby allowing individuals to lead a more fulfilling life post-stroke.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Stroke patient drug use patterns in a tertiary care hospital.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Adverse drug reaction, Drug compliance, Medication adherence, Stroke patients, Clinical pharmacology, Co-morbidities, Clinical profile, Demographic analysis, Risk factor, Demographic parameters, Prospective observational study, Polypharmacy, Patient counseling, Antiplatelet drugs, Antihypertensive.