Development, implementation and cost-effectiveness of a protocol for review of combination diuretic prescribing

Morgan, Julie D., Wright, David J., Chrystyn, Henry, George, Bethan, Booth, Andrew C. and Shoesmith, David J. (2003) Development, implementation and cost-effectiveness of a protocol for review of combination diuretic prescribing. British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology, 55 (3). pp. 317-320. ISSN 1365-2125

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Abstract

Aims To determine the extent of inappropriate prescribing of combination diuretics and the cost implications of protocol implementation. Methods Pharmacist-run medication review clinics in two general practices in Bradford, UK. Results Sixty-one patients, mean ± s.d. age 75.8 ± 12.0 years, were reviewed. Thirty-six met protocol criteria; 30 (49.2%) patients had their potassium-sparing diuretics (PSDs) discontinued. Mean (95% confidence interval) reduction in serum potassium concentrations after intervention in these 30 patients was 0.26 (0.09, 0.43) mmol l-1 (P < 0.01). Twenty-eight (93.3%) patients were within the reference range at follow-up; none was below. Conclusions Of prescribed PSDs, 59% were found to be unnecessary. Using the developed protocol potentially improves drug safety and enables cost savings.

Item Type:	Article
Faculty \ School:	Faculty of Science > School of Pharmacy
UEA Research Groups:	Faculty of Science > Research Groups > Medicines Management (former - to 2017) Faculty of Science > Research Groups > Patient Care
Depositing User:	Rachel Smith
Date Deposited:	14 Jun 2011 13:37
Last Modified:	24 Oct 2022 03:00
URI:	https://ueaeprints.uea.ac.uk/id/eprint/32474
DOI:	10.1046/j.1365-2125.2003.01784.x

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