Anaphylactic Reaction Following Injection Cefotaxime Sodium

This is a case study of anaphylactic reaction to cefotaxime sodium in a 23-year-old female who underwent a lower segment cesarean section under spinal anesthesia. Cefotaxime sodium, an antibiotic belonging to the class of cephalosporins, was administered intravenously postoperatively for prevention of infection. The patient complained of breathlessness, swelling around both eyes, and pruritus and urticarial rash over her abdomen, legs, and forehead. The case was successfully managed by withholding the medication and treatment of symptoms. According to the WHO-Uppsala Monitoring Centre causality assessment scale, a probable causal relationship between the suspected drug (cefotaxime sodium) and anaphylactic reaction was made. The severity was found to be moderate (Level 3). Although cefotaxime has well established place in surgical prophylaxis, this case study emphasizes on constant observation and meticulous follow-up of patients receiving it in clinical practice as there is possibility of an adverse drug reaction (ADR) which can be life-threatening. Such happenings can add to challenges faced by the treating physician in the present COVID-19 era. Recognizing ADR helps reduce morbidity and mortality. Reporting ADR helps in documentation and education of healthcare professionals.

A Cross-sectional Study Assessing Prescriptions of a Tertiary Care Teaching Institute of Central India using the WHO Core Drug Indicators

The WHO has developed medication use indicators, including prescription indicators with an aim to evaluate the services provided to the population in regard to medications. With the help of these indicators, there will be constant watch on drug prescribing pattern in health care to avoid irrational prescribing.

Angioedema caused by over the counter use of dicyclomine hydrochloride and paracetamol fixed dose combination in a child: a case report

Authors describe a case of angioedema in a male child due to over-the-counter (OTC) use of fixed dose combination (FDC) of Tab. dicyclomine hydrochloride (20mg) and paracetamol (500mg) for abdominal pain. Use of OTC drugs in children without a doctor抯 suggestion can lead to unnecessary medication use and is not free of risks. Here, there is a probable causal relationship between the suspected drug and angioedema according to WHO-UMC criteria for Causality Assessment. This case was also reported to the Pharmacovigilance Programme of India (PvPI) through PvPI ADR android application.