Abstract

EVALUATING THE IMPACT OF DRUG USE PATTERN AND ADVERSE DRUG REACTION IN STROKE PATIENTS

Aparna V.*, Dr. Malini S., Merin T. Koshy and Dr. Santhosh M. Mathews

ABSTRACT

Stroke is a neurological disorder characterized by blockage of blood vessels. Clots formed in the brain interrupt the blood flow, thus clogging arteries and causing blood vessels to break, leading to bleeding. Incidence of stroke has nowadays become a major public health problem. Management should be tailored according to the disease. Adverse Drug Reaction monitoring is highly warranted among stroke patients due to the existence of multiple risk factors like prolonged therapy, medication errors and comorbidity .This article provides a detail review of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, risk-factors, drug utilisation pattern, Adverse Drug Reactions and Health Related Quality of Life of stroke patients. The burden of stroke in terms of mortality, morbidity and disability is increasing across the world. Effective prevention and treatment are an important component to reduce the impact of stroke. The role of a pharmacist is very much crucial in improving the outcomes of the patients by conducting a drug utilization strategy program. Pharmacists can promote the rational use of drug and enhance their therapeutic efficiency by studying the drug use pattern and use their clinical expertise to monitor ADR hence reduce the unnecessary medication cost and drug related problems in stroke patients. The drug therapy, management of risk factors and ADR possess the major effect on recovery  of stroke with improved Quality of Life. Pharmacists can help other health care providers implement a safe, appropriate, and cost-effective Stroke management plan.

Keywords: Stroke, Risk factors, Drug utilisation pattern, Adverse Drug Reactions, Health Related Quality of Life.