OBJECTIVE: This study finds out drug usage trends in Stage I @entity101 @entity1 without any compelling indications in Karachi, deviations of current practices from evidence based antihypertensive therapeutic guidelines and looks for cost minimization opportunities. METHODS: In the present study conducted during June 2012 to August 2012, two sets were used. Randomized stratified independent surveys were conducted in doctors and general population - including @entity1 , using pretested questionnaires. Sample sizes for doctors and general population were 100 and 400 respectively. Statistical analysis was conducted on Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). Financial impact was also analyzed. RESULTS: On the basis of @entity1 ' doctors' feedback, Beta Blockers, and Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitors were used more frequently than other drugs. @entity7206 and low-priced generics were hardly prescribed. Beta blockers were prescribed widely and considered cost effective. This trend increases cost by two to ten times. CONCLUSION: Feedbacks showed that therapeutic guidelines were not followed by the doctors practicing in the community and hospitals in Karachi. @entity6662 diuretics were hardly used. Beta blockers were widely prescribed. High priced market leaders or expensive branded generics were commonly prescribed. Therefore, there are great opportunities for cost minimization by using evidence-based clinically effective and safe medicines.

Current trends in treatment of XXXX in Karachi and cost minimization possibilities.

@entity1 :: ('9606', 'Species') :: ['Patients', 'patients'] @entity6662 :: ('D049971', 'Chemical') :: ['Thiazide'] @entity7206 :: ('MESH:D049971', 'Chemical') :: ['Thiazides'] @entity101 :: ('MESH:D006973', 'Disease') :: ['Hypertensive']
@entity101 :: (MESH:D006973,Disease) :: ['hypertension']
