Clinical Profile and Utilization Pattern of Antihypertensive Drugs in Geriatric Patients Admitted at Tertiary Care Hospital

Abstract

Background: Hypertension is a major health issue worldwide among geriatrics. Proper treatment and management of hypertension are essential to prevent cardiovascular complications. The primary challenges in managing hypertension in geriatrics include comorbidities, poly-pharmacy, decreased physiological function, and drug interactions. Therefore, the aim of our study is to assess the prescribing patterns of antihypertensive drugs in managing hypertension, as well as to evaluate the stages and clinical profiles of the patients. Methodology: This was a prospective cross-sectional study conducted on hypertensive geriatric patients admitted at tertiary care hospital. Ethical approval was obtained and 159 cases were enrolled based on the inclusion criteria over a period of 6 months. Details such as demographics, medical, medication, laboratory values were collected and subjected to statistical analysis. Results: Among the 159 Cases, higher incidence of hypertension was found in male 81(50 95%) patients. The majority of the patients belongs to the Category of age between 65-74 years (75.47%) and 54 (33.96%) patients are in pre-hypertensive stage. The lab investigation shows that, Higher the average value of GRBS (203.66mg/d), creatinine (1.76 mg/dl) and abnormal ECG impressions were seen in 47 (69.1%) patients. The odds ratio for male smokers is 7.5, for male alcoholics is 3.64, and for patients with diabetes mellitus is 3.16. About 67 (42.13%) of patients are on mono-therapy and 68 (24.02%) patients consuming amlodipine as antihypertensive drug. Cardiovascular complications were observed in 43 (65.15%) patients. Conclusion: Our study concludes, the male patients have a higher incidence and majority of patients consuming amlodipine as a monotherapy. The clinical profile indicates that the mean values for GRBS, creatinine, and ECG results were abnormal. So, identification of risk factor, proper education, lifestyle changes and medication adherence help to optimize therapeutic outcomes and prevent complications.