Evaluation of Outpatient Prescriptions in a University-Based Healthcare Facility in Ibadan

ABSTRACT

Background: Appropriate drug utilization has a huge contribution to global reduction in morbidity and mortality. Periodic review of prescriptions at all levels of care is therefore essential. Objective: To evaluate drug prescription pattern and practice in a university-based healthcare facility using the WHO-core prescribing indicators.Method: A retrospective review of randomly selected outpatient prescriptions in the pharmacy unit of the University of Ibadan Health Services between 2012 and 2014 was done. Pre-piloted data collection form was used to retrieve data based on standard prescription specifications including socio-demographics; drug name and dosage regimen; and prescriber identity. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the data. Results: A total of 4;121 medicines were reviewed in 1200 encounters. Of these; 589 (49.1%) were prescribed for males and 611 (50.9%) for females. Patients' ages were indicated in 388 (32.3%) prescriptions (mean age =17.7years). Summary of WHO-core prescribing indicators showed the average number of medicines per encounter as 3.4; medicine prescribed by generic name (2;533; 61.5%); encounter with one or more antibiotics and injections (427; 35.6%) and (150; 12.5%); respectively. Conclusion: Polypharmacy; low generic prescribing and overuse of antibiotics is common underscoring the need for ongoing enlightment and training of healthcare providers on rational prescribing practice and drug use