RESUMO
Background: Fixed dose drug combinations (FDCs) possess a higher risk of causing adverse drug reactions (ADRs) compared to a drug used individually. This study analyzes the pattern of ADRs caused due to the use of FDCs in a tertiary care hospital. Methods: A prospective, spontaneous ADR reporting study was conducted for two years at a tertiary care hospital. ADRs reported due to suspected FDC use were evaluated for causality (WHO-UMC probability scale), severity (adapted Hartwig scale) and avoidability (Modified Hallas J. et al. scale). Results: Of the 29 (96.67%) cutaneous ADRs reported, 19 (63.34%) ADRs were due to irrational FDCs, of which 16 (53.34%) were ‘probable’, 13 (43.34%) were ‘possibly avoidable’ and 13 (43.34%) were ‘mild/level 2’ on the severity scale. Conclusion: Irrational FDCs carry a higher risk of causing cutaneous ADRs. Awareness and regular reporting of such ADRs can help physicians fight the evil of irrational prescribing.
RESUMO
Background: Aging is a progressive stage beginning with conception and ending with death. Growth in the elderly population has led to an increase in age related diseases and mainly depression affecting quality of life. Depression in old age is an emerging public health problem leading to morbidity and disability worldwide. Aims & Objective: To assess the prevalence of depression in elderly using the Geriatric Depression Scale (GDS), to determine the factors influencing depression and recommend preventive measures. Material and Methods: A Community Based Cross Sectional Study was conducted in the urban slums, field practice area of Community Medicine attached to a tertiary care hospital. Study was done for six months in the urban slums and persons aged ≥ 60 years residing in the urban slums were included. Those with any psychiatric morbidity and without consent were excluded. A pre-designed, pre-tested proforma was used to collect information. GDS was used to assess depression Results: Prevalence of depression was 29.36%. Females (31.39%) were more affected than males (25.93%). 41 (64.06%) among those who were not working were depressed. 45 (70.31%) among illiterates were depressed compared to 19 (29.69%) literates (X2=6.664, df=1, p=0.0098, NS). (64.06%) among those not working, (60.93%) elderly belonging to low socioeconomic status and (54.69%) indulging in substance abuse had depression. Conclusion: Depression in elderly is highly prevalent. Quality health care of the elderly reduces the future burden of diseases and disabilities.