Abstract

Dr. Feryal Qaisar*, Dr. Saleh Ahmed and Dr. Farhana Kosar

ABSTRACT

Background: Hypertension has been managed according to several guidelines, which serve as reference standards. Conversely, countless physicians apply their own knowledge and do not follow the usual guidelines. Objective: To assess the pattern of antihypertensive drugs prescribed at Bahawalpur Victoria Hospital. Methodology: This cross study was conducted from January to August 2018 on 200 outdoor hypertensive patients with and without, diabetes mellitus and asthma. Information obtained from patients included age, sex, economical status, history of diabetes mellitus, asthma and number and classes of antihypertensive medications used. The data collected was analyzed statistically, by using SPSS version 20. Results: It was observed that 38% of hypertensive patients on mono-therapy were controlled by CCB while 28% by ARB, 20% by ACEI and 14% by beta blockers and 78% of Hypertensive patients on polytherapy were prescribed combination of CCB+ARB while 18% ARB+D and 4% CCB+ARB+D. In diabetes group, 32% of hypertensive patients with diabetes mellitus were prescribed CCB while 30% CCB+ARB, and 6% beta blockers. In asthma Group 56% of hypertensive with asthma was treated with CCB, 22% with ARB, 9% with CCB+ARB, 9% with ARB+D and 4% with ACE inhibitors. The most commonly prescribed drugs were amlodipine, lisinopril, losartan, valsartan, and hydrochlorthiazide. Conclusion: The prescribing pattern for treatment of hypertension alone and with diabetes mellitus or asthma, in Bahawalpur Victoria Hospital, was found as per JNC8 and NICE guide lines. Primary care physicians can control their hypertensive patients with drugs mentioned above alone or in combinations with confidence.