DRUG-INDUCED CUTANEOUS REACTIONS: A PHARMACOVIGILANCE STUDY

Objective: Drug-induced cutaneous reactions are common problem in our country and can range from simple rash to severe reactions. Early recognition of these reactions enables early identification and withdrawal of offending drugs, thereby reducing morbidity and mortality. So present study aimed to assess clinical pattern of drug-induced cutaneous reactions in Dermatology OPD.Methods: This study was an open, non-comparative, non-interventional, observational study conducted on patients visiting dermatology department to see the clinical pattern of drug-induced cutaneous reactions. A total of 60 patients with suspected cutaneous adverse drug reactions were recruited. A detailed physical examination was done by a physician, including drug intake during 3 w preceding reactions and type of drug reactions.Results: Most frequently reported cutaneous drug reactions were Stevens-Johnson Syndrome (23%), Maculopapular rash (18%) Toxic Epidermal Necrolysis (15%) and were caused by antiepileptic drugs in 21(35%) patients, followed by antibiotics in 17(28.33%) cases, NSAID’s in 7(11.6%) cases, antitubercular drugs in 3(5%) and antiretroviral drugs in 3(5%) cases. A high proportioned of these reactions (50%) were moderate (31%) of these were severe because they require hospitalisation or increased the duration of stay in hospital or were life-threatening in (1%). Principal offending drug was phenytoin.Conclusion: A good knowledge of ADRs, a careful history taking and watchful approach while prescribing of drugs can prevent many of adverse drug reactions. These facts justify the development of an intensive programme of pharmacovigilance.