Impact of drug-related problems and clinical pharmacist interventions on therapeutic outcomes of the patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital

Abstract

Background: A drug-related problems (DRPs) are defined as an event or circumstance involving drug therapy that actually or potentially interferes with desired health outcomes. The DRPs can occur at any level of its usage. Objective: The aim of the study was to find out the DRPs and pharmacist intervention on therapeutic outcome of the patients. Materials and Methods: A prospective and observational study was conducted over a period of 6-month. The data collected from each patient were documented in a patient data collection form. DRPs and interactions were analyzed using the Micromedex online database and StockleyÂ’s Drug-Drug Interactions text book. Results: Out of 120 patients, 32 males and 19 females were identified with DRPs. The maximum subjects 24 were found between the age group 26-35 and minimum subjects 13 were found in the age group >65 years. Most of the comorbidities were observed in hypertensive patients 15 and diabetes 12. 42 risk factors were observed like smoking 19, tobacco chewing 05, and alcohol 18.137 DRPs were have been identified in which most of them accounted for drug interactions 119, adverse drug reactions (ADRs) 11, untreated indication 05, drug use without indication 02. DRPs were more observed in subjects with anemia 17 and gastrointestinal 15.119 drug interactions have been identified in which major 26, moderate 71, and minor 22. Most of the ADRs are caused due to antiviral drugs such as zidovudine and tenofovir followed by fluoroquinolones, ofloxacin, and levofloxacin. Clinical pharmacistÂ’s interventions were recommended which include drug replacement 03, drug discontinuation 03, and frequency changes 01. Conclusion: The study concludes that involvement of clinical pharmacist services in patient care can significantly help to identify, resolve, and prevent the DRPs in the hospital thereby enhance the patient compliance.