Abstract

A STUDY ON ADVERSE DRUG REACTION MONITORING AMONG GERIATRIC PATIENTS

Mohammed Talha*, Ashwini Rani J. P., Nilufar Jahan, Premalatha M. and Shankar Prasad

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Abstract

Introduction: This research is about incidence of Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) in geriatrics prescription, identifying the risk factors of observed ADRs and to carry out the causality and severity assessment of ADRs. Adverse drug reactions (ADRs) occur frequently in geriatric patients in the hospital and are an important cause of morbidity and mortality. Aim: This study carried out to determine the incidence of ADRs among geriatric prescription. Methodology: The incidence of ADRs in elderly population is higher. The study included all in-patients who were 65 years and older. Different measures for probability, severity, and preventability were used to evaluate the discovered ADRs. Results: Over a period of 6 months, a total of 37 ADRs were reported in 35 patients. Males were noted more than females. Patients between 65-70 were majorly affected by ADRs. Kidney (29.73%) was the most affected organ followed by intestine (16.22%). Anticoagulants had most ADRs followed by antihypertension drugs. The most commonly observed ADRs were loose stools followed by hematuria and hypokalemia. According to WHO-UMC and Naranjo scale, majority of ADRs were possible (48.64%). Schumock– Thorton scale showed that all the reactions were definitely preventable the incidence of ADRs in elderly population is higher. Conclusion: The vigilance in detecting, diagnosing, and reporting adverse drug reactions is crucial for ongoing drug safety monitoring. To improve the understanding of the nature and impact of ADRs, we should continue to enhance detection and reporting.

Keywords: Adverse drug reaction (ADR), Geriatrics, Preventable adverse drug reaction (pADR).