Current trends in the management of acute diarrhea in children below 5 years of age

ABSTRACT

Background: Diarrhea can cause significant deaths and morbidity in children whose age is below 5 years in developing countries. In children under five, it is the third cause of mortality. Aims and Objectives: The main aim of this study was to examine recent trends in the management of acute diarrhea in children below 5 years of age and to identify the pattern of pharmacotherapy for acute diarrhea in children the specific age group of <5 years of age. Materials and Methods: A non-interventional study that was prospective and observational in nature was conducted in 50 patients that were admitted in the pediatric wards at a teaching hospital that was tertiary care. Only those participants whose parents/guardian gave written informed consent were included in the study. Results: Of enrolled 50 patients, 30 (60%) were male patients and 20 (40%) were female patients. Most patients (42%) were between the ages of 6 months–1 year. All the 50 participants were prescribed WHO-ORS and Zinc. About 60% of children were administered the antibiotics with intravenous fluids. Antipyretics were administered to 90% children, antispasmodic and antisecretory agents to 40%, and probiotics to 92% children. The commonly used antibiotics were ceftriaxone, cefpodoxime, metronidazole, ofloxacin, and ornidazole. Conclusion: There was strict adherence to guidelines for treating the children who suffered with acute diarrhea. However, there was poor awareness among the parents regarding the compliance to the treatment, hygienic practices, and its consequences.