Use of anti-allergic drugs in children

Area of Science:

• Pediatric Allergy and Immunology
• Pharmacology
• Public Health

Background:

• Allergic rhinitis is a prevalent chronic condition in pediatric populations.
• Understanding anti-allergic medication prescribing patterns is crucial for effective pediatric care.
• Current prescription habits require analysis to ensure optimal treatment strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the prescription patterns of anti-allergic medications in children under 14 years old.
• To quantify drug utilization, specifically oral antihistamines and intranasal therapies.
• To assess the appropriateness of these prescriptions through clinical record review.

Main Methods:

• Prescription data (DHD - N°DDD/1000 children/day) for oral antihistamines and intranasal therapies were collected for 2011.
• Data were analyzed regionally (sanitary districts I-VIII) and locally (sanitary district V).
• Clinical records from six health centers in sanitary district V were reviewed for age, diagnosis, and prescription adequacy.

Main Results:

• Oral antihistamines accounted for 8.78 DHD, with desloratadine being the most prescribed (3.48 DHD).
• Intranasal therapies were the second most used, with a preference for corticosteroids (budesonide 3.5 DHD, mometasone 2.25 DHD).
• Analysis of clinical records provided further details on patient demographics and diagnostic accuracy.

Conclusions:

• Significant utilization of oral antihistamines and intranasal corticosteroids was observed in pediatric allergic rhinitis treatment.
• The findings highlight a need to enhance healthcare professionals' knowledge regarding anti-allergic drug use in children.
• Optimizing prescription practices is essential for improving outcomes in pediatric allergic rhinitis management.