Prescribing patterns of ophthalmology preparations in Outpatient Department of Clinical Training Center (CTC), Faculty of Medicine, UiTM

The prescribing pattern of ophthalmology in outpatient department has been explored. This study concerns about awareness of rational drug prescribing among clinicians and use of drugs in patients. The present study was carried out to analyse the patterns of ophthalmological drug prescription and use in at outpatient department Clinical Training Center (CTC) Sungai Buloh, Selangor. A total of 300 prescriptions were analysed for number of drugs prescribed, types of ophthalmic preparations, duration of treatment, dosage forms prescribed and frequency of administration. The average number of drugs per prescription was 2.12, suggesting less potential of polypharmacy. Eye drops (99.3%) were the most common dosage forms used by patients. Ointments were only (0.7%). Most doctors prescribed ophthalmic drugs by using brand names. All prescriptions were complete, having clear information on dosage forms, dose, frequency and duration of treatment. Dry eye was the most diagnosed eye disorder (34.42%) followed by glaucoma (34.19%) among patients. Ocular lubricants were the most prescribed drug class (60.1 %), followed by anti-glaucoma (28.6%) agents. The common duration of treatment for patients was four months, the most suitable period for reassessment according to the guidelines. Genders and age of patients were associated with drug classes prescribed and eye diseases diagnosed. Specifically, glaucoma and dry eyes were statistically significant with genders and age of patients. In conclusion, there was a low number of polypharmacy and most of the prescribing was done by using brand name. More studies are needed to determine the treatment of eye diseases in local setting to ensure rational use of drugs and cost-effective therapy.