A study on the Prescription Pattern of Antifungal Drugs in Aden-Yemen

Background: Fungal infections are more common in tropical zones; they can be simple, complicated, or even fatal. Studying the prescribing pattern can help physicians provide rational medical care and appropriate patient compliance. The current study aimed to determine the prescription patterns of antifungals in three departments and the distribution of fungal disease to help in developing policies and stewardship in using antifungal medications. Method: This cross-sectional study was conducted over 6 months from March to October 2023. Potential participants were approached in Governorate and private pharmacies, and dermatologic, gynaecologic, and dental clinics. Results: The total number of collected prescriptions was 250. The analysis of the demographic characteristics of the involved patients showed that about 166 (66.4%) of the patients were females and 84 (33.65%) were males. Most of the patients are in the age group (19-35 years). Most of the fungal infection was vulvovaginal candidiasis 64(25.6%), Tinea versicolor 38(15.2), Tinea cruris 30(12%), oral candidiasis 21 (8.4 %), Tinea corporis (8.4%) then Tinea pedis and skin candidiasis had equal number 19 (7.6%), followed by tinea capitis 12 (4.8%) and onychomycosis 12 (4.8%). The most prescribed oral medicines were Itraconazole 66 (26.4%), followed by Fluconazole 56 (22.4%), Terbinafine 28 (11.2%), Ketoconazole 29 (11.6%) and Griseofulvin 13 (5.2%). The topical medicines prescribed were as follows: Ketoconazole 98 (39.28%), Clotrimazole 46 (18.4 %), Terbinafine 36 (14.4%), and Miconazole 33 (16.4%). The majority of patients (75%) received a combination of topical and systemic oral therapy. While (25 %) were treated by only topical agents. Conclusion: The current report will aid in understanding antifungal prescription practices and form a basis for future research and formulation guidelines for the rational use of these drugs.