Background: Skin diseases are a common problem in community. Fixed-dose combinations (FDCs) are defined as a combination of two or more active ingredients within a single dosage form. In skin diseases, FDCs are used frequently in different dosage forms.
Aim and Objective: This study aims to study and assess the prescribing pattern and cost analysis with emphasis on FDCs in dermatologic practice.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, observational study was carried out at the outpatient Department of Dermatology at GCS Medical College, Hospital and Research Centre. Prescriptions of 500 patients were analyzed for common skin conditions and prescribing patterns. All the data were compiled into Microsoft Office Excel and a descriptive statistical analysis was carried out.
Results: Males and females were 259 (51.8%) and 241 (48.2%), respectively, with a mean age of 33 ± 16.6 years. Most of them had infectious diseases (26%). Out of total 1933 prescribed drugs, 724 (37.4%) were FDCs and 1209 (62.5%) were single drug. The average number of FDCs per prescription was 1.44 ± 0.61. Out of 724 FDCs, oral formulations were 245 (33.8%) and topical was 479 (66.1%). Vitamins and minerals were the most common class of drugs prescribed (22.6%) as FDCs. In comparison, the mean cost of FDCs was found to be significant as with single drugs (P < 0.05).
Conclusion: Infectious diseases are the most common skin ailments. Use of FDCs in skin conditions is very common, particularly in topical formulations. Similarly, nutrients prescribed in skin conditions are also usually in the form of FDCs.
Key words: Fixed-Dose Combinations; Dermatology; Prescribing Pattern
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