A prospective study on the prescription pattern of Antibiotics and oral hypoglycemic drugs among Hospitalized patients with diabetic foot ulcers

Abstract

Diabetic foot complications encompass neuropathy, ischemia, and infection-induced tissue breakdown. Individuals with diabetes carry a 20% high susceptibility to foot ulcers due to neuropathy. These ulcers, from peripheral neuropathy or arterial disease in diabetes mellitus (DM) patients, can lead to necrosis and gangrene. Importantly wound healing stands as the primary goal in treating diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs), with meticulous glucose control and suitable antibiotic administration. This prospective observational study conducted at a tertiary care hospital investigated the prevalence and management of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) over six months. With 48 participants, comprehensive data was collected on demographics, medical histories, investigations, and treatments. In treating DFUs, Inj. Cefotaxime was prominent (52.17%) for its broad antibacterial efficacy, and Inj. Metronidazole addressed anaerobic infections and Clostridium difficile. In insulin therapy, Inj. Degludec, a long-acting option, enabled sustained glycemic control, distinct from shorter-acting insulins. Among oral hypoglycemic agents, T. Metformin prevailed (67.31%) due to its lower hypoglycemia risk. Overall, the study underscores the dual importance of glycemic control and appropriate antibiotics in DFU management, highlighting the efficacy of Inj. Cefotaxime and Inj. Metronidazole, and the safety of T. Metformin. Tailored strategies combining glycemic and antibiotic control are advocated for optimal DFU care.