Evaluation of prescription pattern and quality of life among osteoarthritis patients in a tertiary care hospital

Abstract

Background: Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic, degenerative joints disorder of multiple aetiology. The main issue experienced by the patients is the occurrence of pain, which causes functional disability that ranges from mild to moderate. Objectives: The aim was to study the prescribing pattern of the drugs used in the management of osteoarthritis. Methods: A total of 250 patients diagnosed osteoarthritis patients were enrolled in this study. Prescription pattern of all patients were analysed using the following indicators: Percentage (%) of drugs prescribed, average number of drugs received by the patient, percentage of drugs given parenterally/orally.
Results: After evaluation of the prescription it was seen that OA more prevalent in females and usually occur at age of above 30-60 years. NSAIDs, Supplements, calcium and PPIs were also abundant among other classes. Acetaminophen was most common among NSAIDs. Conclusion: Proper counselling by a clinical pharmacist on the non-pharmacological measures may help in the improvement of symptoms among the OA patients