Exploring Prescription Trends and Clinical Decision - Making in Neurology Department of A Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Background:

Neurological disorders are a major cause of morbidity, mortality, and disability, adversely affecting patients' quality of life. Common disorders include epilepsy, migraine, neuropathic pain, cervical and lumbar radiculopathy, and diabetic neuropathy. Prescription pattern studies help assess rational drug use, improve treatment outcomes, and ensure safe and effective therapy. Hence, this study was conducted to evaluate prescription trends and clinical decision-making in a tertiary care hospital.

Method:

A prospective observational study was conducted for one month in the Neurology OPD of a tertiary care hospital. Around 260 patients (13–91 years), regardless of gender, were included. Data on demographics, diagnosis, and prescribed drugs were collected from prescriptions, case sheets, and patient interviews.

Results:

A total of 260 patients attending the Neurology Department of Princess Esra Hospital were evaluated in this study. The majority of patients were middle-aged adults, with females having the highest frequency. The most prevalent presenting problems were neck and lower back pain. The most common diagnosis identified were cervical and lumbar radiculopathy. The diagnostic examination mostly consisted of spinal imaging investigations. The prescribing pattern demonstrated widespread use of neuropathic drugs, analgesics, and supportive medications, indicating a high prevalence of pain-related neurological and musculoskeletal illnesses in the research group.

Conclusion:

This study found that radiculopathy and pain-related disorders were the most common neurological conditions. Neuropathic and analgesic drugs were widely prescribed. The study highlights the importance of rational prescribing and individualized treatment for better patient outcomes.