Few studies have systematically characterized
drug-prescribing patterns, particularly at
the primary care level in Nigeria, a country disproportionately
burdened with disease. The
aim of this study was to assess the disease profiles
and drug-prescribing pattern in two
health care facilities in Edo State, Nigeria. The
medical records of 495 patients who attended a
primary or secondary health care facility in
Owan-East Local Government Area of Edo
State, Nigeria, between June and November
2009 were reviewed. Disease profiles and drug
prescribing patterns were assessed. Data were
analyzed based on the World Health
Organization Anatomic Therapeutic Chemical
classification system, and core drug prescribing
indicators. Five hundred and twelve clinical
conditions were identified. Infectious disease
was most prevalent (38.3%), followed by
disorder of the alimentary tract (16.4%).
Malaria was responsible for 55.6% of the infectious
diseases seen, and 21.3% (109/512) of
the total clinical conditions managed at the
two health facilities during the study period.
Consequently, anti-infective medications were
the most frequently prescribed medicines
(21.5%), followed by vitamins (18.2%). Use of
artesunate monotherapy at both facilities
(15.7%), and chloroquine at the primary health
facility (24.9%) were common. Paracetamol
(41.8%) and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory
drugs (24.9%) were the most frequently used
analgesic/antipyretic. At the primary health
care facility, dipyrone was used in 21.6% of
cases. The core drug prescribing use indicators
showed inappropriate prescribing, indicating
poly-pharmacy, overuse of antibiotics and
injectio. Inappropriate drug use patterns were
identified at both health care facilities, especially
with regard to the use of ineffective antimalarial
drugs and the use of dipyrone.