DRUG UTILIZATION PATTERN OF ANTI-DIABETIC DRUGS

Background: Diabetes is a metabolic disorder characterized by high glucose level as a result of pancreatic β cells dysfunction and/or insulin resistance. Diabetes is one of the significant causes of morbidity and mortality. Obesity has direct relationship with insulin resistance, enhancing the burden by synthesis of inflammatory mediators and activating JNK pathway. Oxidative stress induces endothelial dysfunction and altered metabolism rate in hyperglycemic condition resulting in complications. Progress of these complications worsens the disease condition and patients’ quality of life. Higher rate of hospitalization is due to severity of disease and complications which increases the economic burden. Early diagnosis and appropriate treatment helps to alleviate the severity and hospitalization. Drug utilization studies remain the effective tool for evaluating prescriptions and promote rational use of drugs. Rational use of drugs helps in maximising therapeutic outcome and minimise the economic burden. Lifestyle chances, patient education on disease and medication aids in improving positive outcome of therapy.

Objective: To evaluate drug utilization pattern of anti-diabetic drugs in hospitalized patients and compare the choice of therapy.

Method: This is retrospective observational study done by observing and reviewing case sheets of 130 diabetic in-patients.

Result: Oral Hypoglycemic agents and insulin were prescribed as both monotherapy as well as combination therapy based on severity of disease and complications. Metformin was the most commonly utilized oral Hypoglycemic drug. Human Actrapid Insulin was preferred next to metformin. Metformin + Glimepiride was utilized the most in combination therapy.

Key words: Diabetes, Drug utilization, Metformin, Monotherapy, Combination therapy.