Consumption pattern of enoxaparin in a non-teaching hospital (a cross-sectional prospective study)

Drug use evaluation studies are conducted to assess the pattern of prescribing and administration of a drug. Deep vein thrombosis is one of the most important clinical issues around the world. This study examined the pattern of enoxaparin consumption, one of the most widely used anticoagulant, for prevention and treatment of thrombosis in a non-teaching hospital.

In this cross-sectional prospective study, 117 patients receiving enoxaparin in different wards of Imam Sajjad Hospital in Ramsar, Iran were studied. Data on how to prescribe and use of enoxaparin were recorded in a questionnaire designed according to UpToDate recommendations. Demographic variables, prophylaxis and therapeutic indications, prophylaxis and treatment doses, interval and monitoring information were evaluated. Finally, the results were compared with UpToDate suggestions.

The mean age of patients was 68.9 years and 52.1% of them were men. Enoxaparin was prescribed for 35.9% of patients as prophylaxis and 64.1% of patients received this drug for the treatment. Overall, prophylactic doses were inappropriately administered in 41.5% of patients. Improper therapeutic doses were also prescribed for 52% of subjects.

The results of this study showed that the dosage and interval of enoxaparin administration were significantly inappropriate. It seems, the prescribers must consider more adherence to enoxaparin guidelines and reliable sources for more rational practices.