Evaluation of the use of PPIs and H2 receptor blockers in inpatient department of general medicine in a teaching hospital in Bengaluru

Abstract

H₂ –receptor antagonists like Ranitidine, which is the first-choice H₂ –receptor antagonist in most patients. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) like Omeprazole, Lansoprazole and Pantoprazole. Produce profound gastric acid suppression and are the most effective treatment for gastro -esophageal reflux disease. They are also effective short-term treatments for gastric and duodenal ulcers. They may achieve a faster healing rate than H₂-receptor antagonists, but the relapse rate is similar. Inappropriate use of antisecretory agents can produce further problems in patients so the appropriateness of antisecretory agents is the main objective of the present study, which should be accordance to standard treatment guidelines. This study is a hospital based prospective and observational study conducted at multispecialty teaching hospital over a period of 6 months. All the patients above the age of 18 years who were on antisecretory drugs prescription and willing to give consent were included in the study. Out of 139 patients enrolled in the study, it was observed that Pantoprazole in 29 (26.60%) followed by Rabeprazole 26 (23.85%), and Ranitidine in 11 (10.09%). Out of 138 patients prescribed with antisecretory medications the average cost of treatment was for rabeprazole (Rs.788.08) followed by pantoprazole (Rs.578.65), ranitidine (Rs.83.67) and omeprazole (Rs.312). Our study highlights the need of rational drug use practices like prescribing by generics and drugs under essential drug list. Continuing education about rational drug use and development of easy to use treatment guidelines for common diseases in General Medicine Department is recommended.