PRESCRIBING TRENDS OF ANTI-ALLERGIC MEDICATIONS IN PEDIATRIC HEALTHCARE SETTINGS
Supradip Chatterjee , Department of Pharmaceutical Technology, Jadavpur University, IndiaAbstract
This study explores the prescribing trends of anti-allergic medications in pediatric healthcare settings, aiming to provide insights into current practices and identify areas for potential improvement. Allergic disorders in children, including allergic rhinitis, asthma, and eczema, require careful management with appropriate pharmacological interventions. However, the patterns and appropriateness of anti-allergic medication use can vary significantly across different clinical environments.
In this study, data were collected from pediatric clinics over a six-month period, focusing on prescriptions of anti-allergic drugs including antihistamines, corticosteroids, and leukotriene receptor antagonists. The analysis involved reviewing patient records to determine the frequency and types of medications prescribed, as well as the adherence to clinical guidelines and recommendations for the management of allergic conditions.
The results revealed a diverse range of prescribing practices across clinics, with notable variations in medication choices and dosages. Antihistamines were the most frequently prescribed drugs, followed by corticosteroids and leukotriene receptor antagonists. The study identified discrepancies between actual prescribing patterns and established guidelines, highlighting areas where adherence to best practices could be improved. Factors such as physician experience, patient demographics, and clinic-specific protocols were found to influence prescribing trends. These findings underscore the need for standardized prescribing practices and continued education for healthcare providers to ensure optimal management of allergic disorders in children. By identifying trends and gaps in current prescribing practices, this study aims to contribute to the development of more effective and evidence-based approaches for treating pediatric allergic conditions.
Keywords
Anti-allergic medications, prescribing trends, antihistamines
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