Evaluation of cutaneous drug reactions in patients visiting out patient departments of Indira Gandhi Government Medical College and Hospital (IGGMC and H), Nagpur

Objectives: To detect cutaneous drug reactions through spontaneous reporting system in IGGMCand H, Nagpur and analyze them using standard assessment scales. Materials and Methods: An observational, prospective study was performed in patients attending dermatology OPD of IGGMC and H, Nagpur from 1 st June 05 to 31 st May 09. Patients were examined for cutaneous drug reactions (CDRs) by spontaneous Adverse Drug Reaction reporting system. Results: Among 2693 total ADRs reported, 872 (33.04%) were CDRs. Antimicrobials (55.5%) were the main drugs involved followed by NSAIDs (18.56%) and steroids (12.61%). Maculopapular rash (37.73%) followed by fixed drug eruption (17.2%) and urticaria (14.56%) were the most frequently observed CDRs. The common drugs causing CDRs were cotrimoxazole (20.41%), topical steroids (betamethasone), ibuprofen (7.91%), ampicillin (6.54%), diclofenac (4.7%) and iron dextran (3.44%). Conclusion : It was observed that commonly used drugs like antibiotics and NSAIDs lead to maximum number of CDRs. Hence strict vigilance is required while using them. This study provides a database of ADRs due to common drugs, which will help clinicians in safe use of these drugs.