The prescribing pattern for the management of dengue fever in pediatric patients of a tertiary care hospital: an observational study

ABSTRACT

Background: Dengue fever is a mosquito borne viral infection which has become a global health hazard, especially in tropical and subtropical areas. Children have higher risk of developing severe forms of dengue fever, however, studies show that paediatric complications/fatalities from dengue fever are potentially avoidable by proper management. Data about drug usage patterns for dengue are particularly lacking, especially in the paediatric age group, therefore this study will help facilitate the rational use of drugs and aid in establishing a more specific management for dengue fever. The objective of the present study was to identify the prescribing pattern of dengue fever in paediatric inpatients admitted to RajaRajeswari Medical College and Hospital and assess according to the WHO core prescribing indicatorsMethods: This prospective observational study took place from March 2017 to September 2017 in the paediatric general wards. Data was collected from case files of NS1 positive patients of both genders between 1-18years. Data was analysed using descriptive statistics and expressed as percentages, means and standard deviations. The prescription pattern was analysed using the prescribing indicators mentioned in the World Health Organization core drug use indicators.Results: Total of 300 drugs were prescribed for 110 prescriptions that were analysed excluding IV fluids and blood products. Mean number of drugs prescribed was 2.7±0.8. Drugs prescribed by a generic name was 7.33%. Patients prescribed an antibiotic was 12.73%. Patients prescribed with an injection was 62.72% Majority of drugs prescribed in this study come from essential medicines list created by regulatory bodies. Intravenous fluids were administered to all patients with majority receiving normal saline (60.9%).Conclusions: Mainstay of treatment of dengue fever for paediatric patients is symptomatic along with focus on fluid management. Majority of drugs prescribed are from essential medicines lists formed by regulatory bodies. With dengue infections being a worldwide health hazard, more studies are needed to facilitate rational use of drugs in this disease.