Assessment of Drug Utilization Pattern in Patients with Hypertension
Background: Hypertension is a major global health concern contributing significantly to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Despite the availability of effective therapies, blood pressure control remains suboptimal in India, highlighting the need to evaluate prescribing practices. Aim: To assess the drug utilization pattern, prescribing trends, and safety of antihypertensive medications in patients with hypertension. Methodology: A prospective observational study was conducted over 8 months in Department of Pharmacology, Shree Narayan Medical institute and Hospital, Saharsa, Bihar, India, including 90 hypertensive patients. Data were collected using structured forms and analyzed using WHO drug utilization indicators, ATC/DDD methodology, and DU 90% analysis. Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) were monitored at 2nd and 8th weeks. Results: The mean age was 64.2±11.35 years, with slight male predominance. Polypharmacy was observed (5.2 drugs/encounter). Most drugs were prescribed from the essential drug list (91%) and by generic name (88.5%). Amlodipine (68.89%) and telmisartan (38.89%) were the most commonly used drugs. Amlodipine contributed the highest DDD (46%). ADRs were few, mostly mild, and decreased over time, with no severe reactions reported. Conclusion: Prescribing practices were largely rational with good adherence to guidelines. However, improvement in patient education and optimization of therapy is needed.