Drug utilization patterns and pharmacoeconomic evaluation of antidiabetics and antihypertensives in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients: A prospective observational study

Abstract

Background: Diabetes mellitus is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by hyperglycemia due to impaired insulin function. It is often associated with hypertension and increased cardiovascular risk. India, with a rapidly rising diabetic population, faces significant health and economic challenges from diabetes and its complications. Effective management through rational drug use and cost-effective therapy is essential to improve outcomes and reduce the burden on patients. Results: The study evaluated 150 patients (aged 30–65+), with most in the 50–65 age group and nearly equal gender distribution. Diabetes alone was seen in 51.3%, while 40.6% had both diabetes and hypertension. Dual therapy was most common for both antidiabetics (54.45%) and antihypertensives (59.7%). Glimepiride + metformin and telmisartan-based combinations were the preferred regimens. Short-acting insulins were used in 80.85% of cases. Generic prescribing was extremely low (