Abstract

A PROSPECTIVE CROSS – SECTIONAL STUDY ON DRUG UTILIZATION PATTERN AMONG GERIATRIC INPATIENTS USING BEER’S CRITERIA

Dr. Apsara G. Krishnan*, Dr. Dona Maria Jose, Dr. Suramya Raju, Meppil Baby, Dr. Beena P.

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Abstract

Potentially Inappropriate Medications (PIMs) are medications in which adverse effects outweighs over its benefits. It affects the safety consequences for older adults and also health care system economically. Hence this study aims at studying such inappropriate prescriptions by using Beers Criteria. It is the American Geriatrics Society’s physicians guide to help improve the safe prescription for older adults. The aim of the study was to evaluate the drug utilization pattern among geriatric inpatients using beers criteria. A Prospective cross sectional study was conducted over a period of six months in a tertiary care hospital. A total of 140 patients case records satisfying the inclusion criteria were analysed to determine the appropriateness of the drug using BEER’S CRITERIA. Case records were prospectively reviewed for demographic details, laboratory data, management and outcomes. During the study period 140 prescriptions were screened. Out of 140 prescriptions 64% of the prescriptions were appropriate and 34% were inappropriate. 74.39% of drugs belonged to group 1 of BEERS criteria (Drugs which are considered to be potentially inappropriate in older adults). 14.63% of drugs belonged to group 2 (Drugs which may exacerbate existing disease or syndrome). 10.97% belonged to group 3(Drugs to be used with caution in older adults). The current study could assess the prescribing pattern of medicines in the geriatrics according to Beer’s criteria 2022. The use of inappropriate medications can be avoided using the Beers criteria 2022, which is one of the important clinical tools which can be wisely used by physicians, pharmacists and health care providers.

Keywords: Geriatrics, BEER’s Criteria, PIMs.