STUDY OF DRUG PRESCRIBING PATTERNS IN PSORIASIS AND ASSESSMENT OF RATIONALITY USING SIGN AND NICE GUIDELINES AT A TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL

Introduction: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory disease of high prevalence. In India the prevalence of psoriasis varies from 0.44 to 2.8%. The main aim of drug utilization research is to facilitate the rational drug use. Without a precise knowledge of how drugs are being prescribed and used, it is difficult to suggest measures to improve the prescribing habits. The economic burden of psoriasis is also a matter of concern to patients due to the permanent cost of treatment and the possibility of lower productivity and absenteeism in the workplace. Aims and objectives: To study drug utilization pattern of psoriasis, to estimate direct cost of therapy and to assess rationality using SIGN and NICE guidelines. Methodology: Patients attending the Dermatology outpatient department at a tertiary care teaching hospital newly diagnosed with psoriasis by the Dermatologist were enrolled in the study after obtaining written informed consent.  Results: Total 120 patients received 606 drugs, number of drugs prescribed per patient being 5.05 ± 1.52 (Mean ± SD). Most frequently prescribed drug was liquid paraffin 120 (100%) followed by pheniramine maleate 80 (66.67%), betamethasone dipropionate + salicylic acid 70 (58.33%), halobetasol dipropionate + salicylic acid 58 (48.33%) and methotrexate 48(40%). The mean cost of treatment per patient for 15 days was INR 693.7 ± 12. Conclusion:  To conclude, majority of the patients were prescribed topical agents for treatment of psoriasis, the disease incurred greater financial burden to the patients.