A COMPREHENSIVE COST ANALYSIS OF ADVERSE DRUG REACTIONS AMONG HOSPITALISED PATIENTS IN A TERTIARY CARE HOSPITAL

Objective: To analyse the incremental cost of preventing and managing ADRs among hospitalised patients. Methods: A 6-month retrospective and prospective study was conducted at a tertiary care hospital in Perinthalmanna. Direct medical costs related to ADR prevention and management were collected from patients' case files, along with data on causative drugs and reactions. Results: Of 121 case sheets reviewed, 55 ADR cases were identified (55% female, 45% male). The 65–75 age group was most affected (23.64%). Anti-diabetic drugs were the most common cause (16 cases), and gastric irritation was the most frequent reaction (10 cases). The total additional treatment cost was ₹26,243.23, averaging ₹477.15 per patient. Average management cost per ADR was ₹287.93, and average prevention cost was ₹497.71. Conclusion: Elderly patients are most susceptible to ADRs, with gastric irritation being the most common reaction. ADRs significantly increase the financial burden on patients through both prevention and management costs.