Abstract

A PROSPECTIVE ANALYSIS OF ADVERSE DRUG REACTION IN GERIATRICS AT A TERTIARY LEVEL REFERRAL HOSPITAL IN KERALA.

Elizabeth Joseph*, Shinu.C, Shibil.P.K, Mammen Paul, Sabin T.Sojan and Muhammed Lubab

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) are becoming a major health concern in elderly inpatients. Polypharmacy and physiological changes along with poor compliance contribute to increasing adverse events. AIM: (1) To study the prevalence of ADRs among elderly inpatients in various departments of a tertiary care hospital (2) To compare the risk factors, severity of adverse reactions and (3) To assess the barriers to ADR reporting. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A prospective study was conducted for ADRs among elderly inpatients admitted in various departments of a tertiary care hospital for a period of 10 months (October 2013–July 2014). RESULTS: A total of 27 Adverse Drug Reactions were reported showing an increased tendency of ADR as the age increases, with 44% of the ADR belonging to the age group of 70-79 years. Most of the ADRs were reported in males (77%) compared to females (22%). Of all the departments included in the study, General Medicine department reported 37% of the ADRs, followed by Gastroenterology(22%) and Pulmonology(18%). The drugs which caused most of the ADR include Metronidazole, Cefoperazone-Sulbactam, Phenytoin, Hydrocortisone and Ipratropium Bromide. Aspirin and Olmesartan caused other significant ADRs. Among the system wise classification gastrointestinal system showed the highest ADR (40%) followed by skin reactions (18%), Central Nervous System (11%) and Electrolyte imbalances (11%). According to Naranjo Causality Assessment, 51% of the ADRs were assessed as Possible and 48% as Probable. According to WHO-UMC Criteria, 29% of the ADRs were assessed as Severe, 40% as Moderate and 29% as Mild.

Keywords: CONCLUSION: As the incidence ADRs in elderly inpatients is increasing adequate measures must be taken to monitor and report them. Awareness of all healthcare professionals must be assessed and measures to improve ADR reporting should be taken.