Biniam Asmamaw
clinical pharmacist and Drug Information officer, Ethiopian federal police referral hospital
Title: Evaluation of Ceftriaxone use in medical and emergency wards of Gondar university referral hospital, Northwest Ethiopia
Biography
Biography: Biniam Asmamaw
Abstract
Ceftriaxone is among the most commonly utilized antibiotics owing to its high potency, broad spectrum of activity and low toxicity profile. Yet, there are evidences around the globe supporting the misuse of Ceftriaxone. This study aimed at evaluating the appropriateness of ceftriaxone use in medical and emergency wards of Gondar university referral hospital (GURH), Northwest Ethiopia. A prospective, cross-sectional study design was employed to evaluate the use of ceftriaxone at GURH. The medical records of patients who received ceftriaxone were reviewed prospectively between May 1 and July 30, 2015. Appropriateness of ceftriaxone use was evaluated as per the protocol developed from current treatment guidelines. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was also employed to come up with factors associated with inappropriate use of ceftriaxone. The total of 390 patients’ medical records was reviewed. The utilization rate of ceftriaxone was found to be high with a point prevalence of 59%. Ceftriaxone was empirically used in 79.5% of cases. The most common indications of Ceftriaxone were respiratory tract infections (29.3%), central nerveous system infections (24.1%) and prophylactic indications (16.4%). More than two third (80.2 %) of ceftriaxone use were found to be inappropriate and majority of unjustified ceftriaxone use emanated from inappropriate frequency of administration (78.3%), absence of culture and sensitivity test (68.7%) and duration of therapy (47%). Empiric treatment with ceftriaxone and the presences of co-administered drugs was significantly associated with its inappropriate use. The present study revealed a very high rate of inappropriate use of ceftriaxone which may potentially lead to emergence of drug resistant microorganisms and ultimately exposes the patient to treatment failure and increased cost of therapy. Prescribers should adhere to current evidence based guidelines and reserve ceftriaxone only for proven or strongly suspected infections.