Drug Utilization Pattern of Antihypertensive Drugs in a Tertiary Care Hospital: A Prospective Observational Study

Abstract

Background: Hypertension remains one of the leading contributors to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide. Evaluating prescribing trends of antihypertensive medications is essential to ensure rational drug use and optimal blood pressure control. Objective: This study aimed to assess the utilization pattern of antihypertensive drugs in a tertiary care hospital setting. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted over a period of ten months in the general medicine department of a tertiary care hospital in Coimbatore. A total of 102 prescriptions of diagnosed hypertensive patients were reviewed. Demographic details, comorbidities, prescribed antihypertensive agents, and potential drug–drug interactions were systematically analyzed. Results: Male patients constituted a higher proportion of the study population. Diabetes mellitus was the most frequently observed comorbidity. Calcium channel blockers were the most commonly prescribed class of antihypertensive drugs, followed by beta blockers. Amlodipine and atenolol emerged as the most frequently utilized individual agents. Smoking was identified as a prominent modifiable risk factor. Several clinically relevant drug–drug interactions were observed. Conclusion: The findings indicate predominantly rational prescribing practices aligned with established treatment guidelines. Strengthening prescription monitoring and clinical pharmacist involvement may further enhance patient safety and therapeutic outcomes.