ANALYSIS OF ADVERSE DRUG REACTIONS AND DRUG UTILIZATION ASPECTS OF ANTIPSYCHOTIC MEDICATIONS AT PSYCHIATRY DEPARTMENT OF A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL IN GUJARAT

Analysing prescriptions for utilization and Adverse Drug Reactions is crucial for rational drug use. In the context of mental health, particularly in India, where limited healthcare funds demand optimal drug prescription… understanding the prescription patterns becomes crucial. This study centres on antipsychotic medications, essential in treating various mental disorders, including schizophrenia and psychosis and adverse drug reactions associated with it. This aims to analyse the prescription patterns, adverse drug reactions (ADRs), and drug utilization aspects of antipsychotic medications and analysing prescriptions according to WHO/INRUD prescribing indicators in the Psychiatry department of a tertiary care hospital in Gujarat, India. To do so, a hospital-based observational study involving 400 patients from outpatient and inpatient departments was carried out. Collected data includes patient demographics, medical history, prescribed drugs and adverse reactions. The Institutional Ethics Committee provided approval and necessary permissions. Of all 400 patients analysed, 71% were male, with a predominant age group of 31-50 years. Atypical antipsychotics were more frequently prescribed (65%) compared to typical ones. Adverse drug reactions were reported in 31.25% of patients, with Chlorpromazine, Trifluoperazine, and Risperidone being associated with the highest number of ADRs. Schizophrenia accounted for 52% of prescriptions, and oral administration was the most common route (93.65%). In conclusion, the study reveals a notable utilization of atypical antipsychotics, shedding light on specific drugs associated with higher ADRs. These findings provide insights into prescription practices, aiding in the promotion of rational drug use in psychiatric settings, especially concerning the prevalent mental health disorders in India.