DRUG RELATED PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH MEDICATIONS USED IN ASTHMA

Aim: The main aim of this study is to find out the drug related problems (DRP) associated with the medications used in the management of Asthma. Methodology: This prospective observational study was carried out in inpatient department of pulmonology in a tertiary care hospital. Patient history/medication interview was done. Other criteria to assess the appropriateness of drug related problems was based on BNF, GINA guidelines and modified Beer's criteria. Results: Among the study population of 84 individuals, 36% suffered from other comorbid conditions with asthma, and 48% were affected only with asthma. Total numbers of DRPs were 104, in that polypharmacy - 25%, contraindications - 16%, drug interactions - 22%, overdose - 15%, underdose - 3% and ADR were found to be 19%. Conclusion: This study shows that DRP occur frequently in patients using several drugs to treat chronic diseases. The number of DRP was also significantly associated with the number of drugs prescribed. Moreover, patients with polypharmacy had significantly more drug related problems. Key Words: Asthma, Prescriptions, Drug related Problems