Publication:

Prescription pattern of topical corticosteroids in dermatology department in a tertiary care hospital

Background Topical steroids are sometimes combined with other active ingredients including antibacterial agents, antifungal agents and calcipotriol. The study of prescription pattern measures the performance of health care providers in several key dimensions related to the appropriate use of drugs. The objectives of the study were to study the prescription pattern of topical corticosteroids in terms of indications, its potency, average number of topical corticosteroids per patient and in fixed dose combinations.

Methods Data of patients prescribed with topical corticosteroids in dermatology department OPD were collected. Data included age, gender, clinical diagnosis, topical & systemic corticosteroids prescribed and their dosing schedule

Results Out of 500 cases, 229 were males and 271 were females. Mean age of patients was 40.60±19.789 years. Most common dermatological condition for topical corticosteroid prescription was dermatitis (43.8%). 45. 9% of prescribed corticosteroids were moderate potent agents. Average number of topical corticosteroids per prescription was 1.04. Most commonly prescribed topical corticosteroids were betamethasone dipropionate. Most common dosage form was cream. Most common fixed dose combination was with gentamicin. Among 103 fixed dose combinations 42.7% were combined with moderately potent steroids. 72% drugs were prescribed in generic name. 4% of prescription had strength of steroids mentioned. 80% of prescription stated site of application and in 76% cases frequency of drug application was mentioned. Duration of treatment was mentioned in 86.4% of cases.

Conclusions Study demonstrates variability of topical corticosteroid utilization in various dermatological conditions.