Prescription analysis based on the World Health Organization core prescribing indicators in pediatric population having respiratory tract infections

Abstract

Background: Data regarding local drug prescribing are scarce, especially in pediatric population. Evaluation of prescriptions will be helpful in promoting rational prescribing, minimizing adverse effects and should also provide cost-effective care. Aims and Objectives: The objectives of this study were as follows: (i) To analyze the prescriptions based on the World Health Organization (WHO) core prescribing indicators and (ii) to suggest modifications, if necessary in prescribing patterns. Materials and Methods: A prospective and observational study was conducted for a period of 1 year after obtaining institutional ethical committee approval. A total of 210 prescriptions of children aged 0–18 years were analyzed according to the WHO prescribing indicators. Results: Average number of drugs prescribed per prescription was 1.89 and average number of antibiotics prescribed per prescription was 0.70. About 23.80% of drugs were prescribed by generic name. About 18.09% of drugs were given through injectable route. All drugs (100%) were prescribed from the National List of Essential Medicines, 2015. About 87.89% of children received monotherapy (single antibiotic), whereas polytherapy (more than one antibiotic) was prescribed only in 12.11% of the prescriptions analyzed. Conclusion: This study indicates that prescriptions in pediatric population having respiratory tract infections were found to be in accordance with the WHO indicators. However, there is under usage of generic drugs.