Drug utilization pattern in pregnant women in rural areas, India: cross-sectional observational study

Abstract

Aim: The aim of this study was to evaluate the drug-utilization trend of pregnant women in rural areas of central India.

Materials and methods: This was a prospective, observational study using a questionnaire, face-to-face interview and a prescription audit.

Results: The majority of the subjects were primigravida (51.4%), from the lower socioeconomic group (71.3%) and with poor formal education. Although the drugs prescribed for them per prescription (2.66) were within rational limits, there was scope for improvement in generic (21%) and essential drugs (18%), antibiotics (9.6%) and injections (10.97%).

Conclusions: Morbidity and mortality during the antenatal period occur due to different factors. Regular drug-utilization studies following the guidelines of the World Health Organization and information, education and communication factors related to drug use by pregnant women can be improved.