Publication:

A prospective study on the utilization pattern of antimicrobial agents among inpatients in the medicine ward of K. R. Hospital, Mysore Medical College and Research Institute

Background Drug utilization studies are crucial to assess prescribing patterns and promote rational use of antimicrobial agents, thereby reducing resistance and treatment costs.

Methods A prospective observational study was conducted on 100 inpatients receiving antimicrobial therapy. Data were collected from patient records and analyzed using descriptive statistics to determine demographic details, prescription patterns and WHO core prescribing indicators.

Results Of the 100 patients, 56% were female and 44% were male. Respiratory tract infections were the most common diagnosis (32%), followed by gastrointestinal infections (23%), urinary tract infections (15%) and viral fever (11%). Cephalosporins were the most frequently prescribed antimicrobials with ceftriaxone in 38% of prescriptions, followed by penicillin (28%), fluroquinolones were-(15%), aminoglycosides-(8%) and macrolides-(6%), carbapenems-5%. Generic prescriptions accounted for only 62% of total drugs. Furthermore, 78% of drugs were prescribed from the essential drug list. The average number of drugs per prescription was 4.2.

Conclusions Antimicrobial utilization showed predominant use of cephalosporins and piperacillin combinations. Although most drugs were prescribed from the essential list, adherence to rational prescribing practices can be improved through antibiotic policies and regular prescription audits to minimize resistance and optimize cost-effectiveness.