Study on drug use pattern in the management of the cardiovascular diseases and with comorbidities

Background : Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Drug utilization studies provide valuable information regarding prescribing practices, rational drug use, and medication adherence. Comorbidities such as diabetes mellitus and hypertension often complicate cardiovascular disease management and may influence prescribing patterns. Objective: To evaluate drug utilization patterns and medication adherence among cardiovascular disease patients with associated comorbidities receiving treatment in a private hospital in Tiruvannamalai, Tamil Nadu, India. Methods: A prospective observational study was conducted over six months (February-July 2026) involving 65 adult patients diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases. Data regarding demographics, diagnosis, comorbidities, prescribed medications, dosage regimen, route of administration, laboratory parameters, and medication adherence were collected using a structured case record form. Descriptive statistical methods were used for analysis. Patient adherence was assessed before and after counseling interventions. Results of the 65 patients enrolled, 61.5% were male and 38.5% were female. The majority belonged to the 61-70 years age group. Acute coronary syndrome (41.5%) was the most common cardiovascular condition. Telmisartan (36.9%) was the most frequently prescribed antihypertensive drug, atorvastatin (58.5%) the most commonly prescribed hypolipidemic agent, and clopidogrel (49.2%) the leading antiplatelet medication. Digoxin (41.5%) was the most utilized ionotropic drug, while vildagliptin (30.7%) was the predominant antidiabetic agent among patients with diabetes. Medication adherence improved substantially following counseling, increasing from 59.3% to 84.6%. Conclusion: The study demonstrated the predominance of atorvastatin, clopidogrel, and telmisartan in cardiovascular disease management. Acute coronary syndrome was the most frequently encountered diagnosis. Patient counseling significantly improved medication adherence, emphasizing the importance of pharmacist involvement and rational prescribing in optimizing treatment outcomes among cardiovascular disease patients with comorbidities.