Utilization of sedatives and hypnotics at Jordan University Hospital

ABSTRACT

A study of the utilization of sedatives and hypnotics at Jordan University Hospital [JUH] for the year 1986 was conducted. Utilization was estimated using the Defined Daily Dose [DDD] as a unit of measurement. Benzodiazepines were predominantly the group of sedatives/hypnotics used in both in-patient and out-patient departments, accounting for 72.7% and of the sedatives/hypnotics, respectively. These were followed by barbiturates and hydroxyzine. The average amount of sedatives/hypnotics delivered per patient was higher for in-patients than for out-patients [0.805 DDD /patient vs 0.25 DDD/patient, respectively]. Overall utilization of these drugs varied, with figures ranging from 0.09 DDD/bed-day in the pediatrics department to 1.51 DDD/bed-day in the Coronary Care Unit [CCU]. The average DDD/bed-day was 0.14