PRESCRIPTION ANALYSIS OF DRUGS PRESCRIBED FOR CHILDREN IN PUNE, MAHARASHTRA, INDIA
To analyze the drug pattern prescribed by SKNMC teaching hospital doctors and private doctors in Pune. II MBBS students collected data from the prescriptions issued for children in paediatric OPD of Smt Kashibai Navale Medical College and from prescriptions of issued for children by private hospitals at medical shops or in hospitals. Information about demography, names of drugs with doses, frequency of administration, duration of therapy and diagnosis. Rationality of prescribed drugs was assessed in accordance with WHO Model List of Essential Drugs for Children, 3rd Edition, 2011. About 70 % drugs prescribed by teaching hospital for children were from WHO Model List. Significantly more number of rational FDCs was prescribed by teaching hospital for children as compared to private hospitals. Antimicrobials, vitamins and minerals and cough /cold preparations were commonly prescribed for children, but rational drugs were prescribed more by teaching hospital. Significantly more number of rational antimicrobial FDCs was prescribed by teaching hospital. Antimicrobials were commonly prescribed for respiratory tract ailments. Most of the drugs prescribed in children by private hospitals were not according to WHO Model List of Essential Drugs for Children. Interventions to rectify over prescription of antimicrobials, cough/cold FDCs are needed. Organizing regular workshop/ educational campaign for rational prescribing may help in this regard