Title: Pharmacoepidemiology of Opthalmology Prescriptions
Authors: Dr Anupam Nath Gupta, Dr Gangotri Barui, Dr Paras Nath
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.18535/jmscr/v8i1.127
Abstract
Introduction: Pharmacoepidemiology refers to the epidemiological methods to study the clinical use and effects/side effects of drugs. Drug utilization pattern needs to be evaluated from time to time so as to increase therapeutic efficacy and decrease adverse effects.
Material and Methods: Prescriptions of patients treated during the course of the study were audited retrospectively using a specially designed form to record the required information from the case sheets of each patient. All the drugs prescribed were recorded.
Results: The average number of drugs per prescription is 3.234, drugs prescribed by their generic name were 31.47. Regarding dosage form eye drop (80.67%). Most frequently prescribed class of drug is antibiotics, mydriatics, anti-inflammatory.
Discussion: Pharmacoepidemiology is a powerful tool that can benefit patient and public health but only if used appropriately by providing the insights into various aspects of drug prescribing and drug uses. WHO organizes many drug utilization researches with the goal of rational prescription by various methods of auditing.
Conclusion: Improvement through continuous education is desired on the part of prescribers to ensure a good standard of care.
