Drug utilization study in covid associated mucormycosis patients in a tertiary care hospital

Abstract

Background: Drug utilization research is essential for supporting rational, cost-effective use of drugs. In its wake, COVID-19 pandemic caused a surge in mucormycosis cases. Globally prevalence of mucormycosis was 0.005-1.7per million population, while it is nearly 80 times higher (0.14 per1000) in India compared to developed countries. Thus, present study was undertaken to assess prescription-patterns and drug-utilization by measuring WHO drug use indicators in Covid associated Mucormycosis patients.

Objectives: To study the prescribing patterns of drugs used in COVID associated mucormycosis, to evaluate prescriptions according to WHO Drug Use Indicators and to assess Adverse Drug Reactions if any.

Methods: Cross sectional, observational study. Data collected from files of patients admitted in the Mucormycosis ward of tertiary care hospital. Various parameters of utilization pattern were evaluated.

Results: Total numbers of files analyzed were 70 in which 947 drugs were prescribed. 74.76% drugs prescribed from NLEM. All drugs prescribed from the hospital pharmacy. Average number of drugs per prescription is 13.5. Most common drug prescribed-Amphotericin B (7.6%). Most common class was supplements (22.28%) followed by antibacterial (17.85%). The proportion of use of generic name was seen in 86.38%, branded-13.62%. Predisposing risk factors for covid associated mucormycosis like steroid use was found in 27.14% and 62.85% were diabetic. ADR with Amphotericin B was seen in 8.6% patients.

Conclusion: Mucormycosis spreads rapidly, prompt and appropriate treatments are necessary. Judicious use of drugs is warranted to prevent Covid Associated Mucormycosis. Increased vigilance in COVID-19 patients, even in those who have recovered is necessary.