Year: 2026 | Month: January-March | Volume: 11 | Issue: 1 | Pages: 253-263
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijshr.20260126
Prescribing Pattern in Patients with Parkinsonism Attending Out-Patient Clinic in Tertiary Care Centre in North India
Prachi Chauhan1, Arpita Singh2, Dinkar Kulshreshtha3, Shaili Jaiswal4, Rakesh Kumar Dixit5
1Senior Resident, Department of Pharmacology, Dr. RMLIMS, Lucknow
2Professor & HOD, Department of Pharmacology, Dr. RMLIMS, Lucknow
3Professor, Department of Neurology, Dr. RMLIMS, Lucknow
4Senior Resident, Department of Microbiology, Dr. RMLIMS, Lucknow
5Professor, Department of Pharmacology, KGMU, Lucknow
Corresponding Author: Dr. Prachi Chauhan
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Parkinson's disease (PD) is a common neurodegenerative disorder with variable prevalence across India. Management typically involves Levodopa, but long-term use can lead to complications. This study examines prescribing patterns for PD patients in a tertiary care center in North India, aiming to estimate the proportion of patients on Levodopa (100/25) and describe the adverse effects of anti-parkinsonian therapy.
Materials and Methods: A 12-month cross-sectional study enrolled 100 PD patients, classified as Idiopathic/Typical Parkinson's Disease (IPD) or Atypical PD based on clinical assessments. Medication regimens were reviewed, and patients were followed up three months post-consultation to monitor health status and Adverse Drug Reactions (ADRs). Statistical analyses were conducted using t-tests and Chi-square, with significance set at p ≤ 0.05.
Results: 84% of patients were diagnosed with IPD and 16% with atypical PD. Levodopa was the most commonly prescribed medication (83%), with significant differences in usage between IPD and atypical PD. Dopamine agonists were exclusively used in IPD patients. Common ADRs included nausea, dizziness, and headaches, mainly associated with Levodopa. Medication compliance was high (90%), though side effects and costs posed challenges.
Discussion: The study highlights the predominance of IPD and the extensive use of Levodopa in PD management in North India. Early diagnosis and tailored treatment are crucial, particularly in resource-limited settings. Managing ADRs is essential for optimizing patient outcomes.
Conclusion: This study provides critical insights into PD management in North India, emphasising the importance of early diagnosis, personalized treatment, and ADR monitoring to enhance patient quality of life and adherence.
Keywords: Parkinson's disease, Levodopa, Adverse drug reactions