Study of Drug Prescribing and Use Pattern in Paediatric Bronchial Asthma Patients.

Abstract

Background: Asthma is a condition in which a persons airways become inflamed,narrow and swell and produce extra mucus, which makes it difficult to breathe. Aim and Objective: This study aims on describing the drug prescribing pattern,medication adherence,quality of life,handling of inhalers,lung function test and cost of illness in 110 paediatric bronchial asthma patients in a tertiary care hospital for duration of six months. Results: Overall 110 patients were enrolled in the study and its found that male patients (60.90%) are more prone to asthmatic attacks than female patients (39.10%). β-agonists (Salbutamol,) was the most commonly used bronchodialator followed by corticosteroids(82.72%), antibiotics(56.36%),anti-histamines(30%)anti inflammatory(29.9%),antitussives(23.63%) and methylxanthines(11.81%). Drugs used in RMMCH were compared to various EDL (Essential drug list) which complied with national EDL.The FVC and FEV were assessed among the patients during their admission and discharge time.The statistical analysis of the data of the two groups (baseline and discharge) for FVC(P=<0.001) and FEV(p=<0.008) shows its significance.20.9%.61.81%.80.9% of the patients has shown correct usage of inhalers during baseline,after first and second counseling.A significant improvement in quality of life was assessed during pre and post counseling using Mann-Whitney rank sum test.The score of low(55.45%) medium(32.72%) and high(11.81%)medication adherence patients was found on pre-counseling and on post-counseling low(17.27%),medium(55.45%) and high(28.18%) medication adherence was observed.Hospitalization charges are accounting for 39.3% and medical charges are accounting for 24.21%on an average of 6 days of admission in the hospital. Conclusion: Patient counseling aided and had a positive impact on patients understanding of their illness and the role of medications in its treatment,improved medication adherence and improved quality of life for the patients.