Prescribing Pattern of Asthma Therapy among Children with Asthma at Qassim Region, Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Asthma is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting millions of children across the globe and requires long-term pharmacotherapy. This study was carried out with the objective to assess the prescription pattern in asthmatic children in Qassim region, Saudi Arabia. Methods: A cross-sectional hospital-based-retrospective study was performed, which included out-patients children aged less than 14 years attending Al-Habib Hospital (HMG), Qassim region, Saudi Arabia, between 2010-2019 after obtaining Ethical Approval from the research unit. Results: The most visited physicians was the pediatricians, who counted 53.84% of the total visits. Pediatricians prescribed more oral medications in comparison to Pediatric ER physicians, while Pediatric ER physicians tended to prescribe more antibiotics than pediatricians. In regard to prescribed suppository medication, the most commonly prescribed drug was paracetamol. There was no association between the specialty and prescribing patterns. Regarding prescribed IV medication, no association was found between the specialty and prescribing patterns. The most commonly IV medication was ceftriaxone, followed by salbutamol. In regard to nebulizers, and inhalers no association was found between the specialty and prescribing patterns. Conclusion: The study effectively established the relationship between the prevalence and incidence of asthma. In order to properly manage asthmatic patients, it is necessary to develop asthma treatment recommendations and assess physician adherence to treatment guidelines. Keywords: Asthma, Qassim, ISAAC, Therapy, Survey, Children