A MULTI CENTRE STUDY : ANALYSIS OF PRESCRIPTION PATTERN AND RATIONAL USE OF DRUGS IN PREGNANCY

Abstract

Background: Pregnancy presents a complex situation characterized by numerous physical and psychological changes experienced by women gestation and so assessing the prescription pattern and rational use of medicines in pregnancy is pivotal for enhance maternal & fetal health and for reducing teratogenic effects and birth defects by identifying situations where potentially harmful medications are being prescribed.
Results: Over the last four decades, there has been a 70% increase in the use of three or more prescribed medications during the first and second trimesters of pregnancy. Additionally, there has been a 35% increase in the intake of prescribed medications compared to supplements. Among over 225 pregnant women studied, there is a 16% abortion rate in multigravida patients, while the comorbidity rate is 40% in both primigravida and multigravida patients, with a notably higher rate observed in multigravida patients. Healthcare providers demonstrate a meticulous approach, carefully balancing efficacy and potential risks in pharmacotherapy, ensuring that none of the prescribed drugs fall into category X in terms of safety during pregnancy.
Conclusion: The prescription pattern reflects a nuanced comprehension of the complexities surrounding medication use during pregnancy. Upon thorough analysis of prescription trends in pregnancy, healthcare providers demonstrate a meticulous strategy by prioritizing medications with established safety records and taking into account individual patient nuances.