Analysis of prescription pattern and evaluation of possible drug related problems in acute kidney injury patients

Abstract

Introduction: Drug-induced acute kidney injury (AKI) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, accounting for 8% to 60% of in-hospital AKI cases. Impaired renal function leads to the accumulation of drugs and their metabolites in the body, increasing the nephrotoxic burden and the risk of AKI. Objective: The study aims to assess the necessity of appropriate dosage adjustment in patients with acute kidney injury (AKI) and the utilization of previously nephrotoxic drugs. Method: A prospective observational study was conducted among Acute Kidney Injury patients for a period of about 6 months. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS v.20. Pearson’s chi-square tests, correlation, and linear regression analysis were employed to examine the collected data. Results: A study of 207 patients revealed that 97% were prescribed antibiotics, with penicillin being the most common (46.9%). Cephalosporin and piperacillin/tazobactam were prescribed to 38.80% and 37.81% of patients, respectively. Concerningly, only 24% of prescriptions for acute kidney injury (AKI) patients were appropriate, while 86.9% and 58.4% exhibited overdosing and contraindications. More than half of the AKI patients (114 out of the total) had previously used nephrotoxic medications, potentially contributing to their kidney injury. Improved dosage adjustment practices in AKI treatment and monitoring of nephrotoxic drug use are crucial to prevent renal complications. Conclusion: The study’s findings emphasize AKI development, drug patterns, antibiotics and nephrotoxic drugs highlighting the importance of awareness and effective management of AKI.