Drug Utilization Evaluation of Medications Used by Hypertensive Patients in Hospitals in Nigeria.

Drug utilization studies in developing countries is evolving. Rising medication cost for hypertensive patients is a major cause of noncompliance to therapy. The study was a cross-sectional drug utilization review involving outpatients in two purposively selected hospitals (secondary and tertiary) in Abeokuta, Southwestern Nigeria. Data and relevant information were obtained from the patients' medical records domiciled in the outpatients' hospital records department. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used at p < 0.05. Total medication cost to patients was USD$48,575; out of which antihypertensive medications accounted for 46% (USD$21,588) in two referral hospitals. Ramipril was the most prescribed in both hospitals. Generic drugs were cheaper than their branded alternatives. Study outcomes are beneficial for managing costs for hypertensive patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]