A STUDY ON DRUG-DRUG INTERACTIONS AND ADR’S AMONG PSYCHIATRY OUT-PATIENTS AT A TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL

Abstract

The expanding and challenging field of psychopharmacology is constantly seeking new and improved drugs to treat psychiatric disorders. In this way,
psychiatrists are continuously exposed to newly introduced drugs that are claimed to be safe and more efficacious. The objective of this study is to assess
and evaluate frequency of adverse effects and drug interactions. A prospective observational study conducted in a tertiary care hospital among 216
patients. Patient demographics, past medical history, family and surgical history, diagnosis and present medications prescribed were recorded. The data
was obtained by direct patient interview and from patient case profiles. The collected psychotropic drugs were analysed to identify the adverse drug
reaction (ADR’s) and drug interactions. In a total of 216 patients, mental illness was most commonly observed in females 114 (52.70%). Majority
patients were in the range of 21-30 years age group 70 (32.40%). Weight gain was commonly observed ADR with olanzapine. Drug interactions were
mostly seen between the carbamazepine and risperidone. Some of the drug interactions and high prevalence ADR’S are therapeutic issues that needs to
be addressed to foster evidence-based medicine.