Antibiotic Prescribing Pattern Among Patients Admitted in a Secondary Care Hospital in South India
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.65129/health.v1i2.80Keywords:
Antibiotic Prescribing Patterns, Antibiotic Stewardship, Antimicrobial Resistance, Rational Drug Use, National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM), WHO AWaRe ClassificationAbstract
Background: Antibiotics are pivotal in managing infectious diseases, yet their overuse contributes to rising Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR). Monitoring prescribing patterns is essential to promote rational antibiotic use, minimize polypharmacy, and reduce healthcare costs. Objective: To analyze inpatient antibiotic prescribing patterns with respect to adherence to guidelines, demographic trends, types of infections treated, antibiotic classes used, and duration of therapy. Methods: A retrospective observational study was conducted to assess the prevalence and characteristics of antibiotic prescriptions among hospitalized patients. Data on patient demographics, diagnosis, antibiotic class, duration, and route of administration were collected and compared against national and WHO benchmarks. Results: Antibiotics were prescribed in 45.8% of total prescriptions, with intravenous administration being the most common route (66%). About 99% of antibiotics prescribed were from National List of Essential Medicine,2022 (NLEM). The average number of antibiotics per patient was 1.6, aligning with WHO recommendations. Male patients (60%) and the 41–60 years age group (33%) were the most frequent recipients. Respiratory tract infections (19%) were the leading indication for antibiotic use. Cephalosporins (31%) and penicillins (23%) were the most commonly prescribed classes. The average duration of therapy was 6.3 ± 3.2 days. Based on the WHO AWaRe classification, the most frequently used antibiotics were from the Watch group (51%), followed by Access (48%) and least by Reserve (1%). Conclusion: The study demonstrates encouraging trends toward rational antibiotic use, with high adherence to NLEM and appropriate prescribing practices. However, the predominant use of watch group antibiotics and cephalosporins highlights the need for ongoing antimicrobial stewardship to curb AMR. Targeted interventions, particularly among high-risk groups, are essential for optimizing antibiotic therapy and ensuring sustainable healthcare practices.
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