Abstract
Drug use is a complex process. Uncertainties in diagnosis, treatment and medication adherence contribute to wide variations in the way drugs are used for any given condition. One method to evaluate and improve drug use is conducting drug use evaluation studies. Our study aims to find out any objectionable trends in the drug utilization patter and correct them. The present study was conducted in two phases. In first phase, 200 prescriptions were collected, evaluated, necessary interventions were made and implemented in collaboration with the health care team. In second phase, another 200 prescriptions were collected and evaluated to check whether the interventions were successfully implemented and any further more necessary interventions were suggested. WHO Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical/Defined Daily Dose methodology was used to assess drug utilization data. Drug prescriptions were analyzed by WHO INRUD drug use indicators. Cost analysis was done by calculating cost index. Our study concludes that, all the treatment patterns for various disorders were in accordance to several guidelines. Intervention was made to use Olanzepine instead of Aripiprazole as drug of choice for schizophrenia, which was implement successfully in the second phase. The prescribed daily dose for most of the drugs corresponded to defined daily dose, reflecting adherence to international recommendations. Drug use pattern was satisfying WHO INRUD drug use indicators criteria expect for use of generic names shown a negative impact. Cost index of most of the drugs were >2 due to the use of specific branded drugs which was unavoidable.
