OPTIMIZING PHARMACOTHERAPY IN BURN PATIENTS: A DRUG UTILIZATION STUDY FROM A CLINICAL SETTING

Abstract

Burn injuries represent a significant clinical challenge, often requiring complex pharmacological interventions for pain management, infection control, wound healing, and prevention of complications. Rational drug use in burn care is essential to improve outcomes, minimize adverse effects, and reduce healthcare costs. This observational drug utilization study was conducted to evaluate prescribing patterns and therapeutic approaches in burn patients admitted to a tertiary care hospital. Prescriptions were analyzed for drug categories, frequency of antimicrobial use, analgesics, antiulcer agents, fluid and electrolyte therapy, and topical preparations. Parameters such as average number of drugs per prescription, adherence to essential drug lists, and rationality of prescribing were assessed. The study revealed that antimicrobials and analgesics were the most frequently prescribed drug classes, followed by antiulcer agents and topical agents. While the majority of prescriptions aligned with standard treatment guidelines, instances of polypharmacy and prolonged use of broad-spectrum antibiotics were noted. The findings emphasize the need for continuous monitoring of prescribing trends in burn care to ensure rational and evidence-based pharmacotherapy.