PRESCRIBING PATTERN OF DRUGS IN THE OUTPATIENT DEPARTMENT OF A TERTIARY CARE GOVERNMENT HOSPITAL IN EASTERN MAHARASHTRA, INDIA - A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY

Background: Drug utilization studies (DUS) represent a promising instrument for evaluating healthcare systems. DUS are conducted to promote rational drug use. Practical prescription indicators evaluate a healthcare provider's performance across several key areas related to the appropriate use of medications. Therefore, the objective of the present study was to investigate the prescriptions issued by physicians at a tertiary care facility. Methods: The present study employs a prospective, cross-sectional, and observational design. The six-month study was conducted at the Government Medical College Akola, a tertiary care teaching hospital in Maharashtra, spanning from October 2025 to March 2026. Data was collected from 635 prescriptions. The data analysis was conducted using WHO prescribing indicators. Results: Among the 635 participants, the majority (50. 39%) were female, and most (71. 65%) resided in rural areas. The present study found that the average number of drugs per encounter were 3.3. Percentage of drugs prescribed by their generic name were 83.88%. Percentage of encounters with an antibiotic prescribed were 43.30%. Percentage of encounters with an injection prescribed were 48.03% and 92.65% of the prescribed medications were from the essential drugs list. Conclusion: The prescribing pattern can be improved by minimizing the number of medications, using generic names, selecting and using medications appropriately, and consciously keeping therapy costs low. Such studies help develop policies that promote responsible medication use by physicians.