Abstract

Introduction: The pharmacy in Dr. Exequiel González Cortés hospital dispenses metered dose inhalers (MDI) to pediatric patients suffering from chronic respiratory diseases such as asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease or cystic fibrosis. The fact of knowing data associated with the dispensing of MDI would optimize their use, from a logistical perspective. Objective: To evaluate the use of inhalers and to identify their consumption trends in the outpatient pediatric population of Exequiel González Cortés Hospital. Methodology: Based on the records of ambulatory pharmacy and the national health fund, a database was created, where the necessary information for this work was analyzed, using as a time period from June 01, 2015 to May 31, 2016, both dates inclusive. Results: In the period studied, the most dispensed medication was fluticasone 250 mcg, and less than five MDI were delivered per patient, with the peak of dispensation located between April and May 2016. In addition, it was evidenced that about two thirds of the patients were dispensed less drug than theoretically corresponded to them. Conclusion: The population using drugs was dispensed less inhalers than they would need, which would should indicate lack of adherence.