Drug utilization evaluation of extended-release methylphenidate

Abstract

Objective To evaluate utilization of extended-release methylphenidate regarding indication and dosage.

Materials and methods Subjects were patients received extended-release methylphenidate at Suansaranrom hospital during February 1st to August 31st 2007. Author had developed the guideline for ExM drug utilization evaluation (DUE) protocol i.e. the appropriate criteria for DUE, intervention to physicians and health care teams to work along process, DUE and adverse drug reaction (ADR) monitoring. Clinical data and indications, dosages were collected. DUE, ADR were monitored according to the guideline. Data were analyzed by descriptive statistics.

Results There were forty-one cases. Most were boys at an average age of 9.65 ± 2.81 years. The purpose of treatment was for the attention deficit hyperactivity disorders (95.1%). Adverse drug reactions were found in twenty-seven patients. There were anorexia (44.4%), insomnia (22.3%) and weight loss (7.4%) respectively. ExM was used for appropriate indications and dosages along the guideline. No serious adverse drug reaction was reported.

Conclusion DUE of ExM showed that the utilization and indication was appropriate and the guideline was easy to follow and ADR was completely reported. This guideline will lead to an optimal drug use and may increase medication adherence of patients.