Study on Utilization Pattern of Corticosteroids in Dermatology Unit in Jayanagar General Hospital, Bangalore

Introduction: Skin diseases are a significant problem all over the world. Corticosteroids are one of the most commonly prescribed drugs in the skin diseases due to their anti-inflammatory and immunosuppressive actions. The appropriate use of corticosteroids is necessary to obtain best possible effect with safest and least number of drugs, while avoiding under use and abuse which may lead to subtherapeutic dose (non-responsive) and adverse effects respectively. Aim: To assess the utilization pattern of corticosteroids in the dermatology department, Jayanagar General Hospital, Bangalore, India. Methodology: A hospital based prospective observational study was carried out for a period of 6 months in Jayanagar General Hospital, by enrolling outpatients considering study criteria. Prescription with atleast one steroid were collected and analyzed for corticosteroids prescription pattern. Results: Out of 150 patients studied, majority of the prescription were of females (59.33 %) compared to males (40.67 %). The study showed most common dermatological problem requiring steroid therapy was ACD (50 %).166 steroids were prescribed during the study, Clobetasol (57.22 %) was the most preferred one. Topical route was much preferred (89.82 %) over oral (7.78 %) and parenteral (2.4 %). Ointment (60 %) was the most preferred topical formulation.72.28 % steroids were prescribed as generic name. Conclusion: Although most of the drugs were prescribed rationally, involvement of a Clinical pharmacist in patient care can help in more rational prescribing along with prevention& early detection of ADRs which can directly promote drug safety and better patient outcomes as well as to control misuse and abuse of OTC steroids.