Abstract

STUDY OF PRESCRIBING PATTERN OF ANTI-SNAKE VENOM AND DRUGS USED FOR SNAKEBITE CASES ADMITTED IN MEDICINE WARDS AND MICU OF A TERTIARY HEALTHCARE HOSPITAL

Kajal Gupta* and Milind Pardeshi

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Abstract

Background: Snake bite is a common and often life threatening environmental and occupational disease. About 35,000–50,000 people die of snakebite in India each year. A Prescription pattern analysis may help us conserve ASVS for the patients in utmost need. Aim: To study the prescribing pattern of anti-snake venom and drugs used for snakebite cases admitted in medicine wards and MICU of a tertiary healthcare hospital. Objectives: -To record the information on prescribing pattern of anti-snake venom and drugs used for snakebite cases. Materials & Method: Diagnosed cases of snakebite admitted in medicine wards and MICU of a tertiary healthcare hospital from July 2022 to December 2022 were included in the study. Data of prescribing pattern was recorded. Appropriate statistical analysis was done by using Microsoft excel software. Results: Out of total 117 cases, 80% of the patients were bit by unknown snake. Only 20% patients were identified cases of viper snakebite. Out of 24 cases of viper snakebite, 5 patients developed limb cellulitis. Only 24% cases were given Antisnake venom (ASVS). Majority of the cases were given antibiotics. Conclusion: The accessibility of antivenoms in developing tropical countries is of concern and efforts should be directed at ensuring the access of antivenoms at affordable prices and their correct clinical use.

Keywords: Snakebite, Viper, Antisnake venom, Prescribing pattern, Drug utilization study.