Publication:

Drug-related problems among type 2 diabetes mellitus patients with hypertension: a prospective observational study

Background Type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and hypertension (HTN) are common comorbid conditions that pose significant management challenges due to drug-related problems (DRPs), which can adversely affect clinical outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the prevalence and types of DRPs in T2DM and HTN patients, analyse drug utilization patterns and identify factors influencing DRPs.

Methods A prospective observational study was conducted over six months at a multi-specialty hospital in Bengaluru. Data from 110 adult patients with T2DM and HTN were collected, including demographics, clinical history and medication records. DRPs were identified using the Pharmaceutical Care Network Europe (PCNE) and Hepler-Strand classifications.

Results The mean age of the participants was 63.45±13.66 years, with a nearly equal gender distribution. Monotherapy (37.27%) and dual therapy (33.63%) were the most common T2DM treatments, while calcium channel blockers (37.27%) and beta blockers (36.36%) were the predominant antihypertensives. DRPs were observed in 36.36% of patients, with untreated indications (14.54%) and drug-drug interactions (13.63%) being most common. Factors such as smoking and alcohol consumption were associated with higher DRP prevalence.

Conclusions DRPs significantly impact the management of T2DM and HTN, highlighting the need for regular medication reviews and targeted interventions to optimize therapeutic outcomes in these patients.