ASSESSMENT OF PRESCRIPTION PATTERN AND ANTIBIOTIC USES IN LRTI PATIENTS IN A RURAL HOSPITAL

Objective: Lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) are among the leading causes of illness and death worldwide, with the burden being particularly high in rural areas of developing countries. Antibiotics form the backbone of therapy, but their inappropriate use contributes significantly to antimicrobial resistance. The present study was undertaken to evaluate the pattern of antibiotic prescribing in patients with LRTIs admitted to a government-managed rural hospital in Latur, Maharashtra, with the aim of identifying trends in drug utilization and opportunities for promoting rational use. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted over eight months, from August 2024 to March 2025. Fifty inpatients with clinically diagnosed LRTIs were included after obtaining informed consent. Data were collected using a structured patient profile form, which documented demographic details, clinical characteristics, and complete prescription information. The prescribing pattern of antibiotics was analysed with respect to class, spectrum of activity, and associated supportive medications. Results: Out of the 50 patients studied, 24 (48%) were female and 26 (52%) were male. The largest proportion of patients fell within the 18–39 years’ age group (34%), followed by those aged 60 years and above (26%). A total of 48 broad-spectrum antibiotics (81%) and 11 narrow-spectrum antibiotics (19%) were prescribed, reflecting a predominance of empirical therapy. Pantoprazole was prescribed to all patients as a proton pump inhibitor, and Ondansetron was also universally used as an antiemetic. Paracetamol was commonly prescribed as an antipyretic, Cetirizine as an antihistamine, and antiplatelet agents such as Aspirin and Clopidogrel were used in patients with cardiovascular comorbidities. Conclusion: The findings demonstrate that broad-spectrum antibiotics are extensively prescribed for the treatment of LRTIs in the rural hospital setting, while narrow-spectrum antibiotics remain underutilized. Although the empirical use of broad-spectrum agents ensures prompt management in the absence of diagnostic support, it may accelerate the development of antimicrobial resistance. There is a need to strengthen stewardship initiatives, improve access to diagnostic facilities, and encourage guideline-based, patient-centred prescribing to achieve safer and more rational antibiotic use in rural healthcare.