Background: Psoriasis is a chronic inflammatory skin disorder associated with significant morbidity and impaired quality of life. Understanding prescribing patterns and treatment adherence is essential for optimizing patient outcomes. Aims and Objectives: The aims and objectives of the study are to evaluate the clinical profile, prescribing patterns, and factors affecting drug adherence among psoriasis patients in a tertiary care hospital. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted among diagnosed psoriasis patients. Demographic details, clinical characteristics, treatment patterns, and drug adherence were assessed using the 8-item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale, a validated tool with defined scoring categories that were recorded and analyzed statistically. Results: The majority of patients (44%) were in the 30–45-year age group, with a significant male predominance (70%, P=0.005). Most participants were from rural areas (68%) and belonged to the Hindu religion (82%). Plaque psoriasis was the most common clinical type. Topical therapy was widely used, with Aloe vera+Vitamin E lotion (84%) and clobetasol+salicylic acid (82%) being the most frequently prescribed agents. Among systemic therapies, levocetirizine (96%) and vitamin A (86%) were commonly used, while methotrexate was prescribed in 40% of patients. Polypharmacy was observed, with an average of 5.6 drugs per prescription. Generic prescribing was low, and antibiotic use was minimal. Drug adherence was poor in the majority of patients. Significant associations were found between adherence and gender, residence, education, and occupation. Conclusion: Psoriasis management largely relies on topical therapy, with evidence of polypharmacy and low generic prescribing. Treatment adherence remains suboptimal and is influenced by socioeconomic and educational factors. Strategies to improve awareness, reduce treatment costs, and promote rational prescribing are essential to enhance adherence and clinical outcomes.
Singh et al. (Mon,) studied this question.