# Exploring Patterns of Medication Usage in Affective Disorder Patients: A Comprehensive Investigation at a Psychiatry Outpatient Clinic of a Tertiary Care Hospital

## TL;DR

This study examines medication usage patterns in affective disorder patients at a psychiatric outpatient clinic, highlighting the common use of triple therapy and the importance of counseling.

## Contribution

The study provides new insights into drug utilization trends in affective disorders, emphasizing triple therapy and counseling practices in a tertiary care setting.

## Key findings

- Bipolar mood disorder was the most prevalent diagnosis among patients.
- Triple therapy was the most common prescription regimen, used in over half of the encounters.
- Comprehensive counseling was provided to nearly all patients, highlighting the importance of holistic care.

## Abstract

Introduction: Affective disorders impose a significant burden on public health due to their high prevalence and associated suffering. This study addresses gaps in current literature and clinical practice by providing insights into medication usage trends, which can inform treatment strategies and optimize patient care. The study aims to investigate drug utilization patterns, particularly focusing on defined daily dose/1000/day, among individuals attending a psychiatric outpatient department of a tertiary care hospital.

Methods: This cross-sectional, prospective drug utilization study included 600 affective disorder patients aged 18 years and above. The study period spanned 12 months, from March 2021 to February 2022. Data on demographics, diagnosis, treatment, and counseling were collected and analyzed using descriptive statistics.

Results: Among the 600 patients analyzed, bipolar mood disorder was the most prevalent (239 patients, 39.83%), followed by depressive disorder (208 patients, 34.67%). Triple therapy was the most common prescription regimen, accounting for 308 encounters (51.33%). The average number of drugs per encounter was 3.75 ± 1.01. A combination of psychotherapy and medication counseling sessions was provided to 594 patients or their relatives, representing 99% of the total encounters.

Conclusion: The study highlights the prevalent use of triple therapy in managing affective disorders, especially bipolar mood disorder and mania disorder. Effective utilization of essential drug lists and comprehensive patient counseling underscores the importance of holistic care in psychiatric outpatient settings.

Recommendation: Given the high prevalence of triple therapy, further research into the efficacy and safety of this treatment approach is warranted. Additionally, continued emphasis on patient education and counseling can enhance treatment adherence and overall outcomes in individuals with affective disorders.