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Abstract
Aim: The aim of the study is to assess the prescribing patterns of antibiotics in the department of paediatrics.
Materials and Methods: The study is prospective observational study carried out among 400 children from 0- 17 years of age for a period of 6 months. Data was recorded in the patient proforma, prescriptions were analysed and follow up was done throughout the period of hospitalization for adverse drug reactions, and drug interactions.
Results: Out of 400 patients, 230 - male (58%), 170 -female (42%). 6 (1.5%) -neonates, 98 (24.5%)- infants, 217(54.3%) - child age, 79 (19.8%) - adolescents. POU was most commonly occurring disease condition in 56 patients (38- male, 18-female). The 2nd most commonly occurring disease condition was bronchopneumonia in 45 patients (27-male, 18-female). 3rd most commonly occurring condition was LRTI in 35 patients (22-male, 13-female). The most commonly prescribed antibiotics in empirical therapy are Ceftriaxone (171-patients) and Amoxicillin/Clavulanic acid (135-patients). The most commonly prescribed antibiotics in definitive therapy are Amoxicillin/Clavulanic acid (10-patients), Ceftriaxone (9-patients). Most of the drug interactions found are mild (51%), moderate (23%) and severe (26%). 80% of the antibiotics were of normal dose, 12% - under dose and 8% - over dose. One adverse drug reaction was seen. Amoxicillin/Clavulanicacid when given orally antibiotic associated diarrhoea was seen.
Conclusion: paediatrics of child age group (1yr-11yrs) should be focused. The most commonly prescribed antibiotic was Ceftriaxone, Amoxicillin/Clavulanic acid. Most of the prescribed antibiotics are of normal dose. ADRs and Drug Interaction to antimicrobials are occasional and usually mild.