Drug-Related Problems in Patients with Depression at RSKJ Soeprapto, Bengkulu

Abstract

Background: Depression commonly requires long-term antidepressant therapy, which may increase the risk of drug-related problems (DRPs), particularly when antidepressants are used in combination with other psychotropic medicines. Objective: To identify patient characteristics, antidepressant utilization patterns, and DRPs among depressive patients treated at the outpatient unit of RSKJ Soeprapto, Bengkulu Province, during July–December 2025. Methods: A descriptive, non-experimental study with a retrospective approach was conducted using medical records. A total of 198 patients were selected by purposive sampling. Data were analyzed descriptively using frequencies and percentages, and DRPs were classified according to Cipolle, Strand, and Morley. Results: Female patients predominated (62%), all patients were aged ≥17 years (100%), and the largest educational category was no formal schooling (36%). The most frequently used antidepressants were fluoxetine (57%) and sertraline (38%). DRPs were identified in 25 patients (13%), all in the drug-interaction category. No cases of indication without drug, drug without indication, dose too high, or dose too low were identified. Conclusion: DRPs were still identified among depressive outpatients, predominantly as potential drug interactions involving antidepressants and antipsychotics. Routine medication review and monitoring are therefore important to improve the safety and effectiveness of pharmacotherapy.