ASSESSMENT OF RATIONAL USE OF FIXED DOSE COMBINATION IN COMMUNITY PHARMACIES OF RESOURCE LIMITED SETTINGS OF ANDHRA PRADESH

Fixed dose combination (FDC’s) is the term, which generically used to mean a particular combination of active ingredient irrespective of the formulation or brand. Now a day’s irrational FDCs are more rapidly being marketed, which results in serious ADRs and reduction of patient quality of life. The study aims at assessing the rational usage of fixed dose combinations in community pharmacies by collection and evaluation of FDCs by using seven-point assessment scale, and development of FDC education tool for practicing rational use. The six months prospective interventional study, carried at community pharmacies where different FDCs were collected. All data regarding demographics details were collected in a suitably planned data collection form, base line survey, first visit and second visit was conducted using ten point questionnaires. Based on responses awareness was provided for appropriate use through FDCs educational tool. The data obtained were entered in Microsoft excel and graph pad instat software, the score of base line was compared with second follow up using Wilcoxon matched pair test. Out of 404 FDCs collected 144 meets the criteria of rationality. Significant improvement (p < 0.0001) in the knowledge, attitude, and practice in the study group showed that pharmacist education at community pharmacies. Similarly a significant improvement (p < 0.05) was observed, also assessed the rationality among community pharmacies. In conclusion development of fixed-dose combinations is becoming increasingly important from public health perspective. It is prerequisite in order to educate every working pharmacist about the rationality of FDCs and safeguard patient health outcomes