PHARMACOEPIDEMIOLOGICAL EVALUATION OF DRUG PRESCRIBING PATTERNS IN OPHTHALMOLOGY OUTPATIENT AND INPATIENT DEPARTMENTS OF A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Background: Pharmacoepidemiology integrates pharmacology and epidemiology to analyze the utilization and effects of medications in large populations. Rational drug use is essential for optimizing therapeutic outcomes, minimizing adverse drug reactions, and ensuring cost-effectiveness, especially in resource-limited settings. This study aims to assess prescribing patterns, drug availability, and cost-effectiveness in the ophthalmology outpatient (OPD) and inpatient (IPD) departments of a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: A prospective, observational cross-sectional study was conducted from September 2021 to August 2023 at Varun Arjun Medical College and Rohilkhand Hospital, Shahjahanpur, Uttar Pradesh. A total of 1562 prescriptions (1150 OPD and 412 IPD) were analyzed. Data were collected using a structured form to capture demographic details, drug-related variables, dosage regimen, and cost. Results were expressed as frequencies and percentages. Ethical clearance was obtained (VAMC/IEC/2021/XIV). Results: The majority of patients belonged to the 46–60 years age group. Cataract and refractive errors were common in OPD, while cataract and glaucoma predominated in IPD. The average number of drugs per prescription was 2.81 (OPD) and 3.59 (IPD). Generic prescribing was low (26.04% in OPD, 35.33% in IPD), with a preference for brand names. Eye drops were the most commonly prescribed dosage form in OPD (81.93%), whereas injections were prevalent in IPD (90.47%). Polypharmacy was observed in 23.33% of OPD and 11.47% of IPD prescriptions. The entire cost burden fell on patients, with average costs of ₹87.40 (OPD) and ₹135.80 (IPD). Conclusion: The study demonstrates rational prescribing in terms of dosage form and documentation, but highlights the need to increase generic prescribing, ensure complete recording of therapy duration, and enhance drug availability in hospital pharmacies. These findings underscore the importance of continuous prescription auditing and prescriber education to promote rational drug use in ophthalmology.