Study on benzodiazepine prescribing in a tertiary hospital.
an observational study
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: A study on the prescribing pattern of benzodiazepines in a tertiary care 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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Subtitle: an observational study
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Siraj Sundaran, Kavya Suresh, Irshad T., Nimmy George, Dona Baiju, G. Babu, Arun Gopalakrishnan and S. Ram Manohar
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World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
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Full text available for: A study on the prescribing pattern of benzodiazepines in a tertiary care hospital
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20199-15438
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study conducted by Siraj Sundaran et al. aimed to examine the prescribing patterns of benzodiazepines in a tertiary care hospital located in Calicut, India. Using a retrospective observational design, the research was carried out over a six-month period from November 2017 to April 2018. By analyzing a total of 200 prescriptions, the researchers sought to identify demographic characteristics, common clinical indications, and adherence to established prescribing guidelines, specifically the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) and Maudsley guidelines.
Gender and Age Distribution in Benzodiazepine Prescribing
An important finding from the study was the demographic distribution of benzodiazepine prescriptions. The analysis revealed that the majority of prescriptions (58%) were issued to females, with the age group of 36-60 years constituting the largest cohort at 41.5%. This trend aligns with existing literature suggesting a higher prevalence of anxiety disorders among women. The implications of these demographics underscore the necessity for targeted mental health interventions and prescribing practices that are sensitive to the needs of this population.
Common Clinical Indications
The study identified anxiety disorders as the most frequently treated condition with benzodiazepines, accounting for 45% of the prescriptions. Additionally, sleep disorders accounted for 31.4% of the prescriptions. Clonazepam emerged as the most commonly prescribed benzodiazepine, constituting 51.8% of the total prescriptions. These data illustrate that benzodiazepines are predominantly used for psychiatric indications, highlighting the critical need for careful management of these medications to mitigate the risk of dependence and adverse effects.
Prescribing Patterns and Guidelines Adherence
Regarding compliance with prescribing guidelines, the results indicated that 90% of patients received a single benzodiazepine for a specific indication, while 10% were prescribed multiple benzodiazepines for different conditions. The study concluded that the prescribing practices observed were consistent with the NICE and Maudsley guidelines, suggesting that medical practitioners at the hospital exhibited rational prescribing behaviors. This adherence is vital in ensuring that benzodiazepines are utilized safely and effectively, minimizing potential risks associated with their use.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the study by Sundaran et al. provided valuable insights into the prescribing patterns of benzodiazepines in a tertiary care hospital setting. The findings underscored the prevalence of benzodiazepines among certain demographics, particularly middle-aged females seeking treatment for anxiety and sleep disorders. Furthermore, the adherence to established guidelines reflects a positive trend in the rational use of these medications. Future research expanding into community settings and long-term follow-ups is recommended to further understand the impact and safety of benzodiazepine prescribing practices.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What was the focus of the study on benzodiazepines?
The study assessed the prescribing pattern of benzodiazepines in a tertiary care hospital, analyzing 200 prescriptions to observe usage patterns and adherence to clinical guidelines.
Who conducted the study on benzodiazepines?
The study was conducted by a team led by Siraj Sundaran, including Pharm. D interns and associated medical professionals from Devaki Amma Memorial College of Pharmacy and PVS Hospital, Calicut.
What age group used benzodiazepines most in the study?
The majority of benzodiazepine prescriptions were for the 36-60 years age group, accounting for 41.5% of total analyzed prescriptions.
Which clinical conditions were most treated with benzodiazepines?
Anxiety disorders and sleep disturbances were the most common conditions treated with benzodiazepines, with anxiety constituting 45% and sleep disorders 31.4% of prescriptions.
What guidelines were followed for prescribing benzodiazepines?
Benzodiazepine prescriptions were evaluated against the NICE and Maudsley guidelines, ensuring rational use and adherence to established clinical standards.
What were the conclusions about benzodiazepine prescriptions?
The study concluded that benzodiazepines were rationally prescribed, conforming to clinical guidelines, with a focus on minimizing dosage and duration to reduce the risk of misuse and dependence.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Study on benzodiazepine prescribing in a tertiary 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) Study (Studying):
The term 'Study' refers to a systematic investigation aimed at analyzing a specific topic, in this case, the prescribing pattern of benzodiazepines in a tertiary care hospital. Studies are essential for gathering data, understanding trends, and making informed decisions based on empirical evidence, particularly in healthcare settings.
2) Drug:
The plural 'Drugs' encompasses various substances that affect biological functions. This term in the study highlights the diversity of medications available, including benzodiazepines, and underscores the importance of analyzing prescribing patterns to understand drug utilization and ensure safe therapeutic practices.
3) Anxiety:
The term 'Anxiety' pertains to a psychological condition characterized by feelings of worry and fear. In the context of this study, anxiety represents one of the primary conditions for which benzodiazepines are prescribed, stressing the significance of appropriate treatment interventions for mental health disorders.
4) Developing:
The word 'Developing' refers to countries or regions that are undergoing economic and social growth. This context emphasizes the disparities in drug use, healthcare access, and prevalence of prescriptions, specifically highlighting the challenges such regions face in managing drug misuse and ensuring patient safety.
5) Devaki:
The term 'Devaki' is a proper noun referring to a name, in this instance, associated with the Devaki Amma Memorial College of Pharmacy. The institution plays a role in the research conducted, highlighting the connection between academic institutions and healthcare practices in the region.
6) Amma:
The word 'Amma', meaning mother in various Indian languages, complements 'Devaki' in the name of the college. It signifies cultural respect and heritage, suggesting that educational institutions also play a significant role in shaping professional values and methodologies in pharmaceutical research and practice.
7) Misuse:
The term 'Misuse' indicates the improper or inappropriate use of medications, which can lead to negative health outcomes. This concept is crucial in the study as it addresses the risks associated with benzodiazepines, emphasizing monitoring and responsible prescribing practices to mitigate misuse in clinical settings.
8) Table:
The word 'Table' refers to a systematic arrangement of data, often used to present study findings clearly and concisely. In this document, tables summarize demographic data, prescribing patterns, and treatment indications, facilitating easier comprehension and analysis of the research results.
9) Male:
The term 'Male' identifies a gender category within the study's demographic analysis. The inclusion of gender distribution provides insights into prescription trends for benzodiazepines, offering valuable information about how various factors such as gender influence treatment practices in healthcare.
10) Life:
The term 'Life' pertains to the existence and experiences of individuals, particularly concerning health and well-being. In this study, it underlines the significance of mental health conditions such as anxiety and how benzodiazepines can affect quality of life through their therapeutic use.
11) Discussion:
The word 'Discussion' refers to the section of the study where findings are interpreted and contextualized within the broader medical and psychological literature. This part is essential for understanding the implications of the data, establishing connections to existing knowledge, and guiding future research directions.
12) Depression:
The term 'Depression' refers to a mood disorder characterized by persistent sadness and lack of interest in previously enjoyed activities. Understanding its prevalence alongside anxiety in patients is crucial for developing effective treatment protocols using benzodiazepines and other therapeutic interventions.
13) Substance:
The singular 'Substance' emphasizes a specific chemical entity, typically highlighting a drug in healthcare contexts. Within the study, it underscores the need for careful evaluation of psychoactive substances like benzodiazepines to ensure rational prescribing and minimize potential risks of dependence and misuse.
14) Medicine:
The term 'Medicine' encompasses the science and practice of diagnosing, treating, and preventing illness. In this study, it indicates the focus on pharmacological treatments such as benzodiazepines, underscoring the need for evidence-based approaches in therapeutic interventions in healthcare settings.
15) Similarity:
The word 'Similarity' refers to the correspondence between different entities or findings. In this study, it highlights the resemblance of the prescription patterns observed to existing literature, reinforcing the notion that certain trends in benzodiazepine use are consistent across various populations.
16) Knowledge:
The term 'Knowledge' relates to the understanding and awareness gained through study and experience. In this context, it emphasizes the importance of acquiring knowledge regarding the prescribing patterns of benzodiazepines, which can lead to improved patient care and adherence to best practices.
17) Pregnant:
The term 'Pregnant' signifies a specific condition that requires careful consideration in prescribing decisions. In this study, pregnant patients were excluded from the analysis due to the potential risks associated with benzodiazepine use during pregnancy, highlighting the need for individualized treatment approaches.
18) Writing:
The term 'Writing' reflects the process of documenting research findings and insights. Effective writing in medical research is crucial for communicating findings to a broader audience, facilitating knowledge transfer, and ensuring adherence to publication standards within the scientific community.
19) Quality:
The word 'Quality' refers to the standard or grade of something, in this context, focusing on the quality of prescriptions and medications. This term underlines the importance of adhering to established guidelines and standards to ensure optimal therapeutic outcomes and patient safety.
20) Disease:
The term 'Disease' encompasses various health conditions that affect the body's normal function. In the context of this study, it refers to the underlying conditions (like anxiety and depression) for which medications, particularly benzodiazepines, are prescribed, underscoring the therapeutic intentions behind drug use.
21) Kerala:
The term 'Kerala' identifies a specific geographic region in India, providing context for the study's location. The sociocultural and healthcare landscape of Kerala may influence prescribing trends, patient demographics, and the overall patterns of drug utilization within healthcare settings.
22) India:
The word 'India' signifies the country in which the study was conducted. Its significance lies in illustrating the regional context of healthcare practices and prescribing patterns, especially concerning the utilization of benzodiazepines and the implications for public health strategies.
23) Dona:
The term 'Dona' is a proper name associated with one of the authors involved in the study. This inclusion indicates the collaborative effort in conducting the research, emphasizing the importance of teamwork in generating valuable insights for healthcare improvement.
24) Babu:
The term 'Babu' is another proper name linked to one of the study's authors. It reflects the collaborative nature of the research team, highlighting the contributions of individual members toward achieving a comprehensive understanding of benzodiazepine prescribing patterns and their clinical implications.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Study on benzodiazepine prescribing in a tertiary hospital.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Clinical condition, Adverse drug reaction, Socioeconomic factors, Institutional ethics committee, Tertiary care hospital, Withdrawal symptoms, Medication chart, Retrospective Observational Study, Dual therapy, Prescribing pattern, Drug Utilization, Rational use of drug, Benzodiazepine, NICE Guideline, Long-acting Benzodiazepines, Intermediate-acting Benzodiazepines.