Abstract

Introduction: Systemic antibiotics account for more than one-third of all prescriptions; hence, antibiotic prescriptions are a major public health concern. Moreover, data regarding rational antibiotic use is very limited. Hence, it is essential that the antibiotic prescribing pattern be evaluated periodically for its rational use. Aim: The aim of our study is to analyse and compare the prescribing pattern of antibiotic use in the in-patients of a tertiary care hospital of South India and North India. Methods: The study was conducted for 2 years (October, 2010 to September, 2012). The data regarding patient demographics and antibiotic use was collected daily in a structured proforma. A descriptive analysis of the data was done. Results: A total of 950 (North Indian and South Indian) patients were enrolled, most of them belonging to the age group 20-80 years. Majority of them were males among North Indian patients and females among South Indian patients. On an average 1.7 AMAs were prescribed per patient with the average duration of stay of patients of 6.8 days. The most common AMAs prescribed were combination of beta lactams followed by aminoglycosides in North India and combination of beta lactams followed by quinolones in South India. The preferred route of administration was injectable. The percentage of drugs prescribed by generic name was 82% being 46% and 36% in North and South India respectively. Conclusions: Male patients have better access to tertiary medical care as compared to female patients. The anti-microbials prescribed were more in number. Newer generation of antibiotics are more commonly prescribed leading to increased cost of therapy. This baseline study will help in formulating an antibiotic policy and standard treatment guidelines for appropriate use of antibiotics.