Main Article Content
Abstract
Background
Research in drug prescription and utilization pattern for any disorder is vital in order to understand the current practice and future modification. Delirium is one of the most common psychiatric emergencies; necessitating early identification and treatment to prevent complications like death and to recover the patient as early as possible to reduce the caregiver burden. Studies from India in this context are few; hence the present study was undertaken at the tertiary care teaching hospital, IGMC&RI, Puducherry.
Methods
A prospective, observational study was conducted over a period of 12 months among the 78 eligible patients admitted in various departments who were referred for psychiatry opinion and management. Data was collected from Patients, their relatives, staff nurses and case records. Parameters like socio-demographic profile, common predisposing and precipitating conditions, biochemical profile and drugs prescribed for them were assessed.
Results
Delirium was most commonly found in males (92.3%), and in alcohol users (74%) and resulting in 15 deaths (mortality for one year - 19.2%). 72 patients (92.3%) received both Benzodiazepines and antipsychotics. Diazepam and Lorazepam were the commonly used benzodiazepines whereas Haloperidol was the most commonly used antipsychotic drug. Lorazepam was used in all patients with deranged liver status. The mean total (oral and parenteral) doses of diazepam, lorazepam and haloperidol used per patient per day were 10.5mg, 7.1mg and 3.2mg respectively.
Conclusion
In the present study both benzodiazepines and antipsychotics were used, mostly together and without much complications. Moreover, these drugs were found to be effective in early improvement of delirium, helping both patients and staffs who care for such uncooperative patients