Abstract

ASSESSMENT OF DRUG THERAPY PROBLEMS IN PATIENTS WITH DIABETES `MELITUS TYPE II IN A NIGERIAN TERTIARY HOSPITAL

Otor Paul Onah* and Sabiu 

Abstract

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus is a growing metabolic disorder among the general adult population largely driven by obesity, physical inactivity, dietary indiscretions and socioeconomic factors. Conservative estimates from international diabetic federation showed that about 8.3% of global population is living with the disease. The treatment of diabetes requires drug therapy that frequently produces problems. Identification, detection and resolving actual and potential drug therapy problems is key to improving treatment outcomes and quality of life of patients as well as prevent unnecessary deaths. Objectives: To determine prevalence of drug therapy problems. Determine the appropriateness of medications and compare the incidence of drug therapy problems between male and females. Methods: The study was carried out in the outpatient department of federal medical centre Keffi. This prospective study involved patients receiving treatment for type 2 diabetes mellitus. Records of medication prescribed during the study period were reviewed for the presence of actual or potential drug therapy problems using Beers criteria and medication appropriateness index. Results And Discussion: Demographic data showed that mean age was 57.5±10.5 years. Dyslipidaemia (73.8%) and hypertension (52.7%) were the leading comorbidities found among the patients. Metformin and Metformin combination drugs were the most prescribed accounting for 66.7%. The preference for Metformin is largely due to its beneficial effects on the cardiovascular system as well as its inherent weight neutral property. Overall prevalence of drug therapy problems was 31.2% of which 41.2% fall under drug interactions with while drug reactions accounted for 18.7%. Prevalence of drug therapy problems varies widely in published studies due to differences in study settings, classification system and assessment tools. Conclusion: The most encountered drug therapy problems were drug interactions and drug reactions and their prevalence is high. There is no significant difference in prevalence of drug therapy problems in males and females.

Keywords: Diabetes mellitus, Comorbidities, Drug therapy.