Publication

Abstract : Objective: Drug utilization studies provide useful insights into the current prescribing practices. In view of this, the present study was designed to establish the drug utilization pattern in hospitalized chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients. Methods: In this retrospective study, all patient data relevant to the study were obtained by examination of patient’s medical records and hospital information system. Results: A total of 237 patients with acute exacerbation were evaluated. The population predominantly consisted of males (92.4%) and most of the patients were in the age group of 61 to 70 y (39.7%). Cough, sputum production and dyspnea were observed in 88.2%, 80.6% and 37.6% patients, respectively. Hypertension (49.4%) was the most common co-morbidity. Candida albicans (16%) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (4.6%) were the most common microorganisms isolated from sputum samples. Majority of the patients were on multidrug therapy during both hospital stay (98.7%) and at the time of discharge (99.6%). During hospital stay, the most commonly prescribed drugs were ipratropium (91.6%) and levosalbutamol (88.2%); antibiotics and systemic corticosteroids were received by 96.2% and 83.1% patients, respectively. At discharge, antibiotics, inhaled corticosteroids, methyl xanthines, long acting beta-2 agonist and tiotropium were received by 94.1%, 93.7%, 92.4%, 86.1% and 56.5% patients, respectively. Conclusion: The prescribing trend observed at our hospital appears to be in concordance with the current guidelines for the management of COPD patients. © 2014 All Rights Reserved.