Assessment of Drug Prescribing Pattern in Pregnancy

Drug prescribing patterns during pregnancy are crucial in minimizing risks associated with unethical and inappropriate medication use, thereby safeguarding both maternal and fetal health. This study aimed to evaluate the prescribing trends among pregnant women and identify common complications to optimize treatment outcomes. Conducted in a tertiary care hospital in Calicut, the study involved 169 pregnant women, primarily aged 25-29 years. Most participants were from urban areas and significant proportion were primigravida. Drugs were categorized using the USFDA pregnancy risk classification system, with the majority falling under category B, followed by categories C, A and D. Iron and folic acid supplements, often prescribed from preconception period to third trimester, were the most commonly used medications. Tetanus toxoid, multivitamins, and mineral supplements were also widely administered. The predominant route of administration was oral, with tablets being the most common form. Urinary tract infections were the most frequent condition, with nitrofurantoin being the prescribed antibiotics. Other commonly prescribed drug classes included analgesics, gastrointestinal drugs, antiemetics, and antidiabetics like insulin and Glycomet. Importantly, no drugs from the high-risk category X were prescribed. The findings underscore the necessity of rational drug use in pregnancy, highlighting the prevalence of safe medication practices and the importance of continual monitoring to prevent adverse outcomes such as miscarriage, stillbirth, and birth defects.