Abstract

EVALUATION OF PRESCRIBING PATTERN OF FIXED DOSE COMBINATION OF DRUGS IN OUTPATIENTS OF CARDIOLOGY IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Dr. Azeem Tahir, Dr Krutika Gulati, Dr. Lalit Mohan, Dr. Smita Shenoy,
Dr. Navin Patil*

ABSTRACT

Objective: To evaluate the prescribing pattern of fixed dose combination of drugs in the department of cardiology in a tertiary care hospital. Materials and methods: The case records of patients with cardiovascular disorders who attended the department of cardiology were studied and following data was collected - patient demographics, diagnosis, the total number of drugs and fixed dose combinations of drugs (FDCs) prescribed, composition of the FDC, whether FDC prescribed is approved by World health organisation (WHO). A descriptive analysis of data was done. Results: Out of 184 patients, 92 received fixed dose combination of drugs. Of these, 91.3% patients were suffering from more than one disease. Prescription of FDCs was most common (69.56%) in patients above 50 years of age. The commonly prescribed FDC was aspirin with clopidogrel followed by spironolactone with frusemide. Of the prescribed FDCs, 90% were WHO approved. Conclusion: Polypharmacy was common due to presence of multiple diseases. Though use of FDCs can ensure patient adherence to therapy, irrational use should be avoided.

Keywords: Fixed dose combination, cardiovascular diseases.