Evaluation of drug interactions in prescriptions of a hospital specialized in cardiology

Simultaneous multiple prescription drugs increases the possibility of drug interactions, situation particularly critical in a hospital. The objective of the present work was to identify interactions by evaluating the originals of prescriptions archived from ward clinical of a hospital specializing in cardiology in the city of Campina Grande/PB, Brazil. The study had transversal, retrospective, and observational character with quantitative approach, and was held in the period from June to July 2010. A total of 196 prescriptions were analyzed and of these, 89.6 % had some type of interaction, and 28.0 % of prescriptions had at least one interaction. The most frequent involved were deslanosideo and furosemide (15.1 %), being classified as moderate. This study showed the importance of the pharmacist in the analysis of requirements, who may exercise the clinical pharmacy and contribute to the continuos education on medicines.Colegio de Farmacéuticos de la Provincia de Buenos Aire

Medications used by pregnant women in primary health service

The study evaluates the use of medications by pregnant women attended at health centers in the city of Campina Grande-PB, Brazil. The sample consisted of 250 patients. The number of prescribed medications ranged from 1 to 5, folic acid and ferrous sulfate being the medications most prescribed. It was observed the omission of some basic elements in medical prescriptions, such as time, duration and route of administration. Among the respondents, 75.2 % had no knowledge of the medication name and 92.6 % about dosage. Regarding the purpose and duration of use 52.5 % and 79.8 % of patients, respectively, did not have any correct information. The lack of information that stood out because of the inadequate knowledge was about the unpleasant reactions, with 86.8 %. The results demonstrate the existence of risks relating to drugs used by pregnant women, making it necessary to institute education measures in rational use of drugs for this group of patients.Colegio de Farmacéuticos de la Provincia de Buenos Aire