Abstract

Background: Although antibiotics are the mainstay of treatment for urinary tract infections (UTIs), in view of growing antibiotic resistance, role of supportive drugs in the management of UTI cannot be ignored especially those requiring hospital care. Aims and
Objective: The aim of the study was to assess the pattern of supportive drugs used in the management of UTIs in hospital settings.
Materials and Methods: This was a prospective observational study, 80 patients above the age of 18 years, admitted to the hospital with UTI were included in the study. Their case records were evaluated to know the pattern of supportive drugs. The patients were assessed for the clinical and bacteriological outcome at the end of treatment. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, namely mean and standard deviation.
Results: Mean age of presentation was 51.25 ± 12.7 years with 59% females (n = 47) and 41% males (n=33). Lower UTI (n = 58, 73%) was more common than upper UTI (n = 16, 20%). Analgesics and antipyretics (paracetamol: 32, 40%; diclofenac: 40, 50%; and tramadol: 20, 25%) were the most common supportive drugs. 74 patients (93%) received urinary alkalizers (sodium/ potassium citrate). Antispasmodics (flavoxate: 27, 34%; oxybutynin: 8, 10%; and darifenacin: 7, 9%) and alpha-blockers (tamsulosin: 8, 10%; alfuzosin: 15, 19%; and doxazosin: 4, 5%) were used in subgroup of patients. Acid suppressants (proton pump inhibitors: 41, 51% and ranitidine: 22, 28%) and antiemetics (ondansetron: 34, 43%) were used in patients with gastric distress. 95% (n = 76) had clinical cure and 39% (n = 31) had bacteriological cure at the end of treatment. Conclusion: Appropriate supportive drugs when used along with antibiotics, can have a potential for rapid symptom relief, hasten recovery, may reduce duration of hospital stay and thus aid for more efficient and complete management.