[Impact of the HEARTS Initiative in a second-level health institution in ColombiaImpacto da iniciativa HEARTS em um estabelecimento de atenção secundária à saúde na Colômbia]. / Impacto de la Iniciativa HEARTS en una institución de salud de segundo nivel en Colombia.

Objective: To identify the impact of the HEARTS initiative on patients with high blood pressure treated in a Colombian hospital. Methods: Quasi-experimental, retrospective study between 2017 and 2019 with hypertensive patients over 18 years of age included in the HEARTS strategy and treated at the Santa Mónica Hospital in the municipality of Dosquebradas, department of Risaralda. The unit of analysis was medical history. Blood pressure targets (defined in the HEARTS initiative as a patient with systolic blood pressure <140 mmHg and diastolic pressure <90 mmHg) were assessed at the time of admission to the HEARTS program and one year later. Sociodemographic, pharmacological, clinical, and blood pressure targets were included, as was compliance with the recommendations of the initiative. Descriptive analysis was performed, and binary logistic regression was applied (p <0.05). Results: A total of 372 patients were studied, of whom 262 were women (70.4%). The mean age was 66.3 ± 12.2 years. In the first consultation, 285 patients (76.6%) presented blood pressure figures within the target range; in the second consultation this was achieved by 84.1% of patients (n=313, mean difference: 7.5%, 95% CI: 1.8 to 13.1; p=0.005). After implementation of the HEARTS initiative, 77.4% of patients (n=288) continued with the initial treatment. Following HEARTS recommendations increases the likelihood of being in the target range (p=0.033; OR= 2,688; CI= 1.081 - 6.684). Conclusions: Implementation of the HEARTS initiative favorably impacted blood pressure figures in patients with hypertension and decreased cardiovascular risk.

Objetivo: Identificar o impacto da iniciativa HEARTS nos pacientes com hipertensão arterial atendidos em um hospital colombiano. Métodos: Estudo quase-experimental, retrospectivo entre 2017 e 2019, com pacientes hipertensos maiores de 18 anos incluídos na estratégia HEARTS, atendidos no Hospital Santa Mónica do município de Dosquebradas, departamento de Risaralda. A unidade de análise foi a história clínica. As metas de pressão arterial (definidas na iniciativa HEARTS como pressão arterial sistólica <140 mmHg e pressão diastólica <90 mmHg) foram avaliadas no momento de ingresso no programa HEARTS e um ano depois. Foram incluídas variáveis sociodemográficas, farmacológicas, clínicas, metas de pressão arterial e adesão à iniciativa. Foram realizadas análises descritivas e foi aplicada a regressão logística binária (p<0,05). Resultados: Foram analisados 372 pacientes, dos quais 262 eram mulheres (70,4%). A média de idade foi de 66,3 ± 12,2 anos. Na primeira consulta de controle, 285 pacientes (76,6%) apresentaram valores de pressão arterial dentro das metas; na segunda consulta, as metas haviam sido alcançadas por 84,1% dos pacientes (n=313 diferença média: 7,5%, IC95%: 1,8 a 13,1, p=0,005). Após a implementação da iniciativa HEARTS, 77,4% dos pacientes (n=288) continuaram com o manejo inicial. O cumprimento das recomendações da HEARTS aumenta a probabilidade de estar nas metas (p=0,033; OR= 2,688; IC= 1,081 - 6,684). Conclusões: A implementação da iniciativa HEARTS teve um impacto favorável nos valores da pressão arterial em pacientes com hipertensão e diminuiu o risco cardiovascular.

Impacto de la Iniciativa HEARTS en una institución de salud de segundo nivel en Colombia

[RESUMEN]. Objetivo. Identificar el impacto de la iniciativa HEARTS en los pacientes con hipertensión arterial atendidos en un hospital colombiano. Métodos. Estudio cuasiexperimental, retrospectivo entre 2017 y 2019 con pacientes hipertensos mayores de 18 años, incluidos en la estrategia HEARTS, atendidos en el Hospital Santa Mónica del municipio de Dosquebradas, departamento de Risaralda. La unidad de análisis fue la historia clínica. Se evaluaron las metas de presión arterial (definido en la Iniciativa HEARTS como un paciente con presión arterial sistólica <140 mmHg y <90 mmHg en la presión diastólica) al momento del ingreso al programa HEARTS y un año después. Se incluyeron variables sociodemográficas, farmacológicas, clínicas, metas de presión arterial y cumplimiento de la iniciativa. Se realizaron análisis descriptivos y se aplicó regresión logística binaria (p <0.05). Resultados. Se analizaron 372 pacientes de los cuales 262 eran mujeres (70,4%). La edad media fue de 66,3 ± 12,2 años. En la primera consulta de control se reportaron 285 pacientes (76,6%) que presentaron cifras de tensión arterial en metas, en la segunda consulta este logro fue alcanzado por el 84,1% de los pacientes (n=313 diferencia media: 7,5%, IC95%: 1,8 a 13,1; p=0,005). Después de la implementación de la Iniciativa HEARTS el 77,4% en los pacientes (n=288) continuaron con el manejo inicial. Cumplir las recomendaciones HEARTS aumenta la probabilidad de estar en las metas (p=0,033; OR= 2,688; IC= 1,081 - 6,684). Conclusiones. La implementación de la Iniciativa HEARTS impactó favorablemente las cifras de tensión arterial en pacientes con hipertensión, con beneficios adicionales en variables que disminuyen el riesgo cardiovascular.

[ABSTRACT]. Objective. To identify the impact of the HEARTS initiative on patients with high blood pressure treated in a Colombian hospital. Methods. Quasi-experimental, retrospective study between 2017 and 2019 with hypertensive patients over 18 years of age included in the HEARTS strategy and treated at the Santa Mónica Hospital in the municipality of Dosquebradas, department of Risaralda. The unit of analysis was medical history. Blood pressure targets (defined in the HEARTS initiative as a patient with systolic blood pressure <140 mmHg and diastolic pressure <90 mmHg) were assessed at the time of admission to the HEARTS program and one year later. Sociodemographic, pharmacological, clinical, and blood pressure targets were included, as was compliance with the recommendations of the initiative. Descriptive analysis was performed, and binary logistic regression was applied (p <0.05). Results. A total of 372 patients were studied, of whom 262 were women (70.4%). The mean age was 66.3 ± 12.2 years. In the first consultation, 285 patients (76.6%) presented blood pressure figures within the target range; in the second consultation this was achieved by 84.1% of patients (n=313, mean difference: 7.5%, 95% CI: 1.8 to 13.1; p=0.005). After implementation of the HEARTS initiative, 77.4% of patients (n=288) continued with the initial treatment. Following HEARTS recommendations increases the likelihood of being in the target range (p=0.033; OR= 2,688; CI= 1.081 - 6.684). Conclusions. Implementation of the HEARTS initiative favorably impacted blood pressure figures in patients with hypertension and decreased cardiovascular risk.

[RESUMO]. Objetivo. Identificar o impacto da iniciativa HEARTS nos pacientes com hipertensão arterial atendidos em um hospital colombiano. Métodos. Estudo quase-experimental, retrospectivo entre 2017 e 2019, com pacientes hipertensos maiores de 18 anos incluídos na estratégia HEARTS, atendidos no Hospital Santa Mónica do município de Dosquebradas, departamento de Risaralda. A unidade de análise foi a história clínica. As metas de pressão arterial (definidas na iniciativa HEARTS como pressão arterial sistólica <140 mmHg e pressão diastólica <90 mmHg) foram avaliadas no momento de ingresso no programa HEARTS e um ano depois. Foram incluídas variáveis sociodemográficas, farmacológicas, clínicas, metas de pressão arterial e adesão à iniciativa. Foram realizadas análises descritivas e foi aplicada a regressão logística binária (p<0,05). Resultados. Foram analisados 372 pacientes, dos quais 262 eram mulheres (70,4%). A média de idade foi de 66,3 ± 12,2 anos. Na primeira consulta de controle, 285 pacientes (76,6%) apresentaram valores de pressão arterial dentro das metas; na segunda consulta, as metas haviam sido alcançadas por 84,1% dos pacientes (n=313 diferença média: 7,5%, IC95%: 1,8 a 13,1, p=0,005). Após a implementação da iniciativa HEARTS, 77,4% dos pacientes (n=288) continuaram com o manejo inicial. O cumprimento das recomendações da HEARTS aumenta a probabilidade de estar nas metas (p=0,033; OR= 2,688; IC= 1,081 - 6,684). Conclusões. A implementação da iniciativa HEARTS teve um impacto favorável nos valores da pressão arterial em pacientes com hipertensão e diminuiu o risco cardiovascular.

Impacto de la Iniciativa HEARTS en una institución de salud de segundo nivel en Colombia / Impact of the HEARTS Initiative in a second-level health institution in Colombia / Impacto da iniciativa HEARTS em um estabelecimento de atenção secundária à saúde na Colômbia

RESUMEN Objetivo. Identificar el impacto de la iniciativa HEARTS en los pacientes con hipertensión arterial atendidos en un hospital colombiano. Métodos. Estudio cuasiexperimental, retrospectivo entre 2017 y 2019 con pacientes hipertensos mayores de 18 años, incluidos en la estrategia HEARTS, atendidos en el Hospital Santa Mónica del municipio de Dosquebradas, departamento de Risaralda. La unidad de análisis fue la historia clínica. Se evaluaron las metas de presión arterial (definido en la Iniciativa HEARTS como un paciente con presión arterial sistólica <140 mmHg y <90 mmHg en la presión diastólica) al momento del ingreso al programa HEARTS y un año después. Se incluyeron variables sociodemográficas, farmacológicas, clínicas, metas de presión arterial y cumplimiento de la iniciativa. Se realizaron análisis descriptivos y se aplicó regresión logística binaria (p <0.05). Resultados. Se analizaron 372 pacientes de los cuales 262 eran mujeres (70,4%). La edad media fue de 66,3 ± 12,2 años. En la primera consulta de control se reportaron 285 pacientes (76,6%) que presentaron cifras de tensión arterial en metas, en la segunda consulta este logro fue alcanzado por el 84,1% de los pacientes (n=313 diferencia media: 7,5%, IC95%: 1,8 a 13,1; p=0,005). Después de la implementación de la Iniciativa HEARTS el 77,4% en los pacientes (n=288) continuaron con el manejo inicial. Cumplir las recomendaciones HEARTS aumenta la probabilidad de estar en las metas (p=0,033; OR= 2,688; IC= 1,081 - 6,684). Conclusiones. La implementación de la Iniciativa HEARTS impactó favorablemente las cifras de tensión arterial en pacientes con hipertensión, con beneficios adicionales en variables que disminuyen el riesgo cardiovascular.

ABSTRACT Objective. To identify the impact of the HEARTS initiative on patients with high blood pressure treated in a Colombian hospital. Methods. Quasi-experimental, retrospective study between 2017 and 2019 with hypertensive patients over 18 years of age included in the HEARTS strategy and treated at the Santa Mónica Hospital in the municipality of Dosquebradas, department of Risaralda. The unit of analysis was medical history. Blood pressure targets (defined in the HEARTS initiative as a patient with systolic blood pressure <140 mmHg and diastolic pressure <90 mmHg) were assessed at the time of admission to the HEARTS program and one year later. Sociodemographic, pharmacological, clinical, and blood pressure targets were included, as was compliance with the recommendations of the initiative. Descriptive analysis was performed, and binary logistic regression was applied (p <0.05). Results. A total of 372 patients were studied, of whom 262 were women (70.4%). The mean age was 66.3 ± 12.2 years. In the first consultation, 285 patients (76.6%) presented blood pressure figures within the target range; in the second consultation this was achieved by 84.1% of patients (n=313, mean difference: 7.5%, 95% CI: 1.8 to 13.1; p=0.005). After implementation of the HEARTS initiative, 77.4% of patients (n=288) continued with the initial treatment. Following HEARTS recommendations increases the likelihood of being in the target range (p=0.033; OR= 2,688; CI= 1.081 - 6.684). Conclusions. Implementation of the HEARTS initiative favorably impacted blood pressure figures in patients with hypertension and decreased cardiovascular risk.

RESUMO Objetivo. Identificar o impacto da iniciativa HEARTS nos pacientes com hipertensão arterial atendidos em um hospital colombiano. Métodos. Estudo quase-experimental, retrospectivo entre 2017 e 2019, com pacientes hipertensos maiores de 18 anos incluídos na estratégia HEARTS, atendidos no Hospital Santa Mónica do município de Dosquebradas, departamento de Risaralda. A unidade de análise foi a história clínica. As metas de pressão arterial (definidas na iniciativa HEARTS como pressão arterial sistólica <140 mmHg e pressão diastólica <90 mmHg) foram avaliadas no momento de ingresso no programa HEARTS e um ano depois. Foram incluídas variáveis sociodemográficas, farmacológicas, clínicas, metas de pressão arterial e adesão à iniciativa. Foram realizadas análises descritivas e foi aplicada a regressão logística binária (p<0,05). Resultados. Foram analisados 372 pacientes, dos quais 262 eram mulheres (70,4%). A média de idade foi de 66,3 ± 12,2 anos. Na primeira consulta de controle, 285 pacientes (76,6%) apresentaram valores de pressão arterial dentro das metas; na segunda consulta, as metas haviam sido alcançadas por 84,1% dos pacientes (n=313 diferença média: 7,5%, IC95%: 1,8 a 13,1, p=0,005). Após a implementação da iniciativa HEARTS, 77,4% dos pacientes (n=288) continuaram com o manejo inicial. O cumprimento das recomendações da HEARTS aumenta a probabilidade de estar nas metas (p=0,033; OR= 2,688; IC= 1,081 - 6,684). Conclusões. A implementação da iniciativa HEARTS teve um impacto favorável nos valores da pressão arterial em pacientes com hipertensão e diminuiu o risco cardiovascular.

Trends of vasopressor use in intensive care units in Colombia / Tendencias de consumo de vasopresores en unidades de cuidados intensivos de Colombia

Abstract Introduction Vasopressors are essential in the management of various types of shock. Objective To establish the trend of vasopressors use in the intensive care units (ICU) in a population of patients affiliated with the Colombian Health System, 2010-2017. Methods Observational trial using a population database of patients hospitalized in eleven ICUs in various cities in Colombia. The drugs dispensed to hospitalized patients over 18 years old, from January 2010 until December 2017 were considered. A review and analysis of the vasopressors dispensed per month was conducted, taking into account sociodemographic and pharmacological variables (vasopressor used and daily doses defined per 100/beds/day (DBD). Results 81,348 dispensations of vasopressors, equivalent to 26,414 treatments in 19,186 patients receiving care in 11 hospitals from 7 cities were reviewed. The mean age of patients was 66.3±18.1 years and 52.6 % were males. Of the total number of treatments recorded, 17,658 (66.8 %) were with just one vasopressor. Norepinephrine was the most frequently prescribed drug (75.9 % of the prescriptions dispensed; 60.5 DBD), followed by adrenaline (26.6 %; 41.6 DBD), dopamine (19.4%), dobutamine (16.0 %), vasopressin (8.5 %) and phenylephrine (0.9 %). The use of norepinephrine increased from 2010 to 2017 (+6.19 DBD), whilst the use of other drugs decreased, particularly the use of adrenaline (-60.6 DBD) and dopamine (-10.8 DBD). Conclusions Norepinephrine is the most widely used vasopressor showing a growing trend in terms of its use during the study period, which is supported by evidence in favor of its effectiveness and safety in patients with shock.

Resumen Introducción Los fármacos vasopresores son fundamentales en el manejo de los diferentes tipos de choque. Objetivo Determinar la tendencia de utilización de fármacos vasopresores en unidades de cuidados intensivos (UCI) en una población de pacientes afiliados al Sistema de Salud de Colombia, 2010-2017. Métodos Estudio observacional, a partir de una base de datos poblacional con pacientes hospitalizados en once UCI de diferentes ciudades de Colombia. Se obtuvieron las dispensaciones de pacientes mayores de 18 años hospitalizados desde enero de 2010 hasta diciembre de 2017. Se hizo revisión y análisis de la dispensación mensual de vasopresores. Se consideraron variables sociodemográficas y farmacológicas (medicamento vasopresor usado y dosis diarias definidas por 100 camas/día [DCD]). Resultados Se revisaron 81.348 dispensaciones de vasopresores, equivalentes a 26.414 terapias en 19.186 pacientes atendidos en 11 hospitales de 7 ciudades, cuya edad promedio fue 66,3±18,1 años y el 52,6 % eran hombres. Del total de terapias registradas, 17.658 (66,8 %) fueron con un solo vasopresor. La norepinefrina fue el más comúnmente prescrito (75,9 % de las dispensaciones; 60,5 DCD), seguido por adrenalina (26,6 %; 41,6 DCD), dopamina (19,4 %), dobutamina (16,0 %), vasopresina (8,5 %) y fenilefrina (0,9 %). El uso de norepinefrina se incrementó de 2010 a 2017 (+6,19 DCD), mientras que el de otros fármacos disminuyó, especialmente adrenalina (-60,6 DCD) y dopamina (-10,8 DCD). Conclusiones La norepinefrina es el fármaco vasopresor más utilizado y el que ha demostrado una tendencia de uso incremental durante el periodo de estudio, lo cual está respaldado por evidencia a favor de su efectividad y seguridad en pacientes con choque.

Long-term users of benzodiazepines in Colombia: Patterns of use and cessation of treatment.

BACKGROUND: Benzodiazepines have low abuse potential, but patients often develop physical dependence and neurological impairments. The objective of this study was to investigate treatment cessation and use of high doses in long-term benzodiazepine users in Colombia. METHODS: Retrospective study. Patients who used benzodiazepines for at least six months (long-term) were selected from a prescription database and followed from initiation of benzodiazepine treatment for up to 30 months. We investigated treatment duration and compared patients who received normal and high (≥2 mean prescribed daily dose) doses. RESULTS: Only 1255 (6.1 %) out of 20,567 patientsprescribed benzodiazepines became long-term users; their mean age was 60.6 years (SD=20.0) and 61.7 % were women. Mean high doses were used by 42.5 % (n=534) of the sample. Age under 20 years was a protector, whereas the long half-life benzodiazepines and use of other neurological medications were predictors of high dosage. Overall, 44.8 % (n=563) of the sample was still using benzodiazepines at the end of the study period. The use of antidepressants, antipsychotics, and anticonvulsants were negatively associated with cessation of benzodiazepine treatment. CONCLUSIONS: A low proportion of patients starting benzodiazepines became long-term users. Nearly half of them used high doses and continued the medication for up to 30 months. Use of concomitant neurological drugs was associated with higher doses and less cessation.

Big data, pharmacoepidemiology and pharmacovigilance / Big data, farmacoepidemiología y farmacovigilancia

Abstract Big data is a term that comprises a group of technological tools capable of processing extremely large heterogeneous data sets, which are continuously collected and are available to be used at any time, and, therefore, constitutes a source of scientific evidence production. In the pharmacoepidemiology field, analyses made using these data sets may result in the development of pharmacological therapies that are more efficient, less expensive, and have a lower occurrence rate of adverse reactions. Likewise, the use of tools such as Text Mining or Machine Learning has led to major advances in pharmacoepidemiology and pharmacovigilance areas, so it is likely that these tools will be increasingly used over time.

Resumen Big data es un término que comprende un grupo de herramientas tecnológicas capaces de procesar conjuntos de datos heterogéneos extremadamente grandes, los cuales se recolectan de manera continua, están disponibles para ser usados y constituyen una fuente de evidencia científica. En el área de la farmacoepidemiología, los análisis generados a partir de estos conjuntos de datos pueden resultar en la obtención de terapias médicas más eficientes, con menor número de reacciones adversas y menos costosas. Asimismo, el uso de herramientas como el Text Mining o el Machine Learning también ha llevado a grandes avances en las áreas de farmacoepidemiología y farmacovigilancia, por lo que es probable que su empleo sea cada vez mayor.

Umbilical Myiasis by Cochliomyia hominivorax in an Infant in Colombia.

Myasis is the infestation by fly larvae (Diptera) in live vertebrates including humans. Myasis has been reported most commonly in tropical and subtropical areas around the world with poor sanitation and presence of cattle. Neonatal umbilical myiasis is an important cause of death in bovines and produces major economic losses in the livestock industry. However, its presentation in humans is rare, with a few cases reported worldwide. Moreover, umbilical myasis can be life-treating due to the risk of larvae migration to deeper tissues of the abdomen, omphalitis, and sepsis. We describe the case of a 7-day-old infant admitted to the hospital due to umbilical cord myiasis. In total, 55 larvae were removed from the wound and identified as Cochliomyia hominivorax. The patient recovered satisfactorily after treatment with ivermectin and amoxicillin. A literature search was performed in Pubmed, Medline, Lilacs and Google Scholar, with 64 cases of myasis by C. hominivorax being reviewed. Oral cavity, wounds, scalp and natural orifices are the main affected anatomical areas. Risk factors include the extremes of age, male sex, poor hygiene, alcohol and drug use, cancer, and mental disability. Programs for human myiasis prevention and surveillance are needed in neotropical areas where living conditions make it difficult to implement control strategies.

Medication errors in outpatient care in Colombia, 2005-2013.

INTRODUCTION: Medication errors outside the hospital have been poorly studied despite representing an important threat to patient safety. OBJECTIVE: To describe the characteristics of medication errors in outpatient dispensing pharmacists reported in a pharmaco-surveillance system between 2005 and 2013 in Colombia. MATERIALS AND METHODS: We conducted a descriptive study by reviewing and categorizing medication error reports from outpatient pharmacy services to a national medication dispensing company between January, 2005 and September, 2013. Variables considered included: process involved (administration, dispensing, prescription and transcription), wrong drug, time delay for the report, error type, cause and severity. The analysis was conducted in the SPSS® software, version 22.0. RESULTS: A total of 14,873 medication errors were reviewed, of which 67.2% in fact occurred, 15.5% reached the patient and 0.7% caused harm. Administration (OR=93.61, CI 95%: 48.510-180.655, p<0.001), dispensing (OR=21.58, CI 95%: 16.139-28.870, p<0.001), transcription errors (OR=5.64; CI 95%: 3.488-9.142, p<0.001), medicines for sensory organs (OR=2.04, CI 95%: 1.519-2.756, p<0.001), anti-infective drugs for systemic use (OR=1.99, CI 95%: 1.574-2.525, p0.001), confusion generated with the name of the drug (OR=1.28, CI 95%: 1.051-1.560, p=0.014), and trouble interpreting prescriptions (OR=1.32, CI 95%: 1.037-1.702, p=0.025) increased the risk for error reaching the patient. CONCLUSIONS: It is necessary to develop surveillance systems for medication errors in ambulatory care, focusing on the prescription, transcription and dispensation processes. Special strategies are needed for the prevention of medication errors related to anti-infective drugs.

Medication errors in outpatient care in Colombia, 2005-2013 / Errores de medicación en pacientes atendidos en servicios ambulatorios de Colombia, 2005-2013

Introduction: Medication errors outside the hospital have been poorly studied despite representing an important threat to patient safety. Objective: To describe the characteristics of medication errors in outpatient dispensing pharmacists reported in a pharmaco-surveillance system between 2005 and 2013 in Colombia. Materials and methods: We conducted a descriptive study by reviewing and categorizing medication error reports from outpatient pharmacy services to a national medication dispensing company between January, 2005 and September, 2013. Variables considered included: process involved (administration, dispensing, prescription and transcription), wrong drug, time delay for the report, error type, cause and severity. The analysis was conducted in the SPSS ® software, version 22.0. Results: A total of 14,873 medication errors were reviewed, of which 67.2% in fact occurred, 15.5% reached the patient and 0.7% caused harm. Administration (OR=93.61, CI 95%: 48.510-180.655, p<0.001), dispensing (OR=21.58, CI 95%: 16.139-28.870, p<0.001), transcription errors (OR=5.64; CI 95%: 3.488-9.142, p<0.001), medicines for sensory organs (OR=2.04, CI 95%: 1.519-2.756, p<0.001), anti-infective drugs for systemic use (OR=1.99, CI 95%: 1.574-2.525, p<0.001), confusion generated with the name of the drug (OR=1.28, CI 95%: 1.051-1.560, p=0.014), and trouble interpreting prescriptions (OR=1.32, CI 95%: 1.037-1.702, p=0.025) increased the risk for error reaching the patient. Conclusions: It is necessary to develop surveillance systems for medication errors in ambulatory care, focusing on the prescription, transcription and dispensation processes. Special strategies are needed for the prevention of medication errors related to anti-infective drugs.

Introducción. Los errores de medicación en la atención ambulatoria se han estudiado poco, a pesar de que representan una amenaza importante para la seguridad del paciente. Objetivo. Describir las características de los errores de medicación en atención ambulatoria reportados por un sistema de farmacovigilancia de Colombia entre el 2005 y el 2013. Materiales y métodos. Se hizo un estudio descriptivo en el cual se recopilaron, revisaron y categorizaron los reportes de errores de medicación de pacientes atendidos en un servicio farmacéutico ambulatorio a cargo de una empresa nacional de dispensación de medicamentos, entre enero de 2005 y septiembre de 2013. Se consideraron variables que involucraban el proceso (administración, dispensación, prescripción y transcripción), el medicamento, el tiempo para elaborar el reporte, el tipo de error, su causa y su gravedad. El análisis se hizo con el programa SPSS ® , versión 22.0. Resultados. Se recopilaron 14.873 errores de medicación, de los cuales 67,2 % realmente ocurrió, 15,5 % afectó al paciente y 0,7 % causó daño. Los errores de administración (p<0,001; OR=93,614; IC 95% 48,510-180,655), de dispensación (p<0,001; OR=21,585; IC 95% 16,139-28,870), de transcripción (p<0,001; OR=5,647; IC 95% 3,488-9,142), los relacionados con medicamentos para los órganos de los sentidos (p<0,001; OR=2,046; IC 95% 1,519-2,756), y con los medicamentos de uso sistémico contra infecciones (p<0,001; OR=1,993; IC 95% 1,574-2,525), la confusión en el nombre del fármaco (p=0,014; OR=1,281; IC 95% 1,051-1,560) y los problemas en la interpretación de las prescripciones (p=0,025; OR=1,328; IC 95% 1,037-1,702), aumentaron el riesgo de que el error afectara al paciente. Discusión. Es necesario establecer sistemas de vigilancia específicos para errores de medicación en los servicios ambulatorios, que hagan énfasis en los procesos de prescripción, transcripción y dispensación. Se requieren estrategias específicas para la prevención de los errores de medicación relacionados con antibióticos.

High prevalence of risk factors in elderly patients using drugs associated with acquired torsades de pointes chronically in Colombia.

AIMS: Medication is one of the main causes of long QT syndrome (LQTS) and torsades de pointes (TdP), and the older adult population is at particularly high risk. The aim of the present study was to describe the prescription patterns of drugs with a risk of TdP in the Colombian older adult population. METHODS: Patients older than 65 years who received medication with a risk of TdP during three consecutive months were selected. The medication was obtained and classified according to the QT Drug List from Crediblemeds.org. The data were analysed using SPSS-22. RESULTS: A total of 55 932 patients were chronically receiving QT-prolonging drugs; 61.9% (n = 34 ,632) were women and the mean age of the sample was 75.6 years. Drugs with a conditional risk were consumed by 95.2% of patients, 5.3% received drugs with a known risk and 2.9% received drugs with a possible risk. Two or more QT-prolonging drugs were consumed by 10.3% of the patients (n = 5786). Most of the sample (96.8%, n = 54 170) had at least one additional risk factor for LQTS, with a mean of 3.1 ± 0.9 risk factors. Patients receiving QT-prolonging drugs for psychiatric and neurological disease were at a higher risk of major polypharmacy [odds ratio (OR) 3.0; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.80, 3.22) and of receiving high doses of QT-prolonging drugs (OR 3.8; 95% CI 3.52, 4.05). CONCLUSIONS: The widespread use of medication that causes TdP and the high prevalence of additional risks in the older adult population raise the need for accurate prediction of risk and constant patient monitoring. Patients taking psychiatric drugs are at a higher risk of TdP.

Trastornos de la conducta alimentaria en adolescentes de colegios públicos de Pereira / Eating disordder among adolescents in public schools from Pereira

Los trastornos de la conducta alimentaria (TCA) son la tercera enfermedad crónica más prevalente en adolescentes, por lo que se consideran un problema de salud pública.Objetivo: Determinar la prevalencia de trastornos de la conducta alimentariaen estudiantes de media académica de colegios públicos de la zona urbana dela ciudad de Pereira Métodos: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo con muestreo aleatorio mediante distribución proporcional entre los colegios públicos de la zona urbana de Pereira agrupados por sectores según su ubicación. Se aplicó la Encuesta de Comportamiento Alimentario (ECA).Resultados: Se encuestaron 382 estudiantes, 58,9% hombres. La ECA fue positiva en el 24,3% de los encuestados. Según el Índice de Masa Corporal el 9,7% de la población se encontraba en rangos de delgadez, 5,8% sobrepeso y 1,6% obesidad. Se encontró relación (p<0,05) entre el género femenino y la ECA positiva (RM=3,83), realización de dietas (RM=1,55), alteración de la auto imagen (RM=1,79), uso de laxantes (RM=2,58) e inducción del vómito (RM=4,41). El 33,4% reportó tener con alguna frecuencia episodios de consumo de grandes cantidades de alimentos acompañados de sensación de culpa.Discusión: Existen alteraciones comportamentales relacionadas con trastornos de la conducta alimentaria en esta población, por lo que es necesariogenerar programas de prevención y promoción de los TCA enfocados paraadolescentes...

Hospital medication errors in a pharmacovigilance system in Colombia.

OBJECTIVE: this study analyzes the medication errors reported to a pharmacovigilance system by 26 hospitals for patients in the healthcare system of Colombia. METHODS: this retrospective study analyzed the medication errors reported to a systematized database between 1 January 2008 and 12 September 2013. The medication is dispensed by the company Audifarma S.A. to hospitals and clinics around Colombia. Data were classified according to the taxonomy of the National Coordinating Council for Medication Error Reporting and Prevention (NCC MERP). The data analysis was performed using SPSS 22.0 for Windows, considering p-values < 0.05 significant. RESULTS: there were 9 062 medication errors in 45 hospital pharmacies. Real errors accounted for 51.9% (n = 4 707), of which 12.0% (n = 567) reached the patient (Categories C to I) and caused harm (Categories E to I) to 17 subjects (0.36%). The main process involved in errors that occurred (categories B to I) was prescription (n = 1 758, 37.3%), followed by dispensation (n = 1 737, 36.9%), transcription (n = 970, 20.6%) and administration (n = 242, 5.1%). The errors in the administration process were 45.2 times more likely to reach the patient (CI 95%: 20.2-100.9). CONCLUSIONS: medication error reporting systems and prevention strategies should be widespread in hospital settings, prioritizing efforts to address the administration process.

Objetivos: analizar los errores de medicacion reportados en un sistema de farmacovigilancia en 26 hospitales para pacientes del sistema de salud de Colombia. Métodos: estudio retrospectivo que evaluo las bases de datos sistematizadas de reportes de errores de medicacion entre el 1 de enero de 2008 y el 12 de septiembre de 2013 de los medicamentos dispensados por la empresa Audifarma S.A a hospitales de Colombia. Se utilizo la clasificacion taxonomica del National Coordinating Council for Medication Error Reporting and Prevention (NCC MERP). El analisis de los datos se realizo mediante SPSS 22.0 para Windows Se determino como nivel de significacion estadistica una p < 0,05. Resultados: se reportaron 9.062 EM en 45 servicios farmaceuticos hospitalarios. El 51,9% (n = 4.707) de los errores realmente se produjeron, de los cuales el 12,0% (n = 567) afectaron al paciente (categorias C a I) y causaron dano (categorias E a I) a 17 (0,36%). El proceso implicado en los EM ocurridos (categorias B a I) con mayor frecuencia fue la prescripcion (n = 1.758, 37,3%), seguido por la dispensacion (n = 1.737, 36,9%), la transcripcion (n = 970, 20,6%) y, por ultimo, la administracion (n = 242, 5,1%). Los errores relacionados con los procesos de administracion aumentaban 45,2 veces el riesgo de que el medicamento erroneo afectara al paciente (IC 95% 20,2-100,9). Conclusiones: es necesario aumentar la cobertura de los sistemas de reporte de errores de medicacion, y crear estrategias para su prevencion, especialmente en la etapa de administracion del medicamento.

Hospital medication errors in a pharmacovigilance system in Colombia / Errores de medicación identificados por un sistema de farmacovigilancia de instituciones hospitalarias en Colombia

Objective: this study analyzes the medication errors reported to a pharmacovigilance system by 26 hospitals for patients in the healthcare system of Colombia. Methods: this retrospective study analyzed the medication errors reported to a systematized database between 1 January 2008 and 12 September 2013. The medication is dispensed by the company Audifarma S.A. to hospitals and clinics around Colombia. Data were classified according to the taxonomy of the National Coordinating Council for Medication Error Reporting and Prevention (NCC MERP). The data analysis was performed using SPSS 22.0 for Windows, considering p-values (AU)

Objetivos: analizar los errores de medicación reportados en un sistema de fármacovigilancia en 26 hospitales para pacientes del sistema de salud de Colombia. Métodos: estudio retrospectivo que evaluó las bases de datos sistematizadas de reportes de errores de medicación entre el 1 de enero de 2008 y el 12 de septiembre de 2013 de los medicamentos dispensados por la empresa Audifarma S.A a hospitales de Colombia. Se utilizó la clasificación taxonómica del National Coordinating Council for Medication Error Reporting and Prevention (NCC MERP). El análisis de los datos se realizó mediante SPSS 22.0 para Windows Se determinó como nivel de significación estadística una p<0,05. Resultados: se reportaron 9.062 EM en 45 servicios farmacéuticos hospitalarios. El 51,9% (n=4.707) de los errores realmente se produjeron, de los cuales el 12,0% (n=567) afectaron al paciente (categorías C a I) y causaron daño (categorías E a I) a 17 (0,36%). El proceso implicado en los EM ocurridos (categorías B a I) con mayor frecuencia fue la prescripción (n=1.758, 37,3%), seguido por la dispensación (n=1.737, 36,9%), la transcripción (n=970, 20,6%) y, por último, la administración (n=242, 5,1%). Los errores relacionados con los procesos de administración aumentaban 45,2 veces el riesgo de que el medicamento erróneo afectara al paciente (IC 95% 20,2-100,9). Conclusiones: es necesario aumentar la cobertura de los sistemas de reporte de errores de medicación, y crear estrategias para su prevención, especialmente en la etapa de administración del medicamento (AU)

Time to and factors associated with insulin initiation in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus.

AIMS: Determine the time between the start of oral antidiabetic therapy (OAD) and the initiation of insulin therapy and to establish factors associated with insulin prescription among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) in Colombia. METHODS: Cohort, retrospective, population-based study. We identify patients with T2DM who started OAD therapy between 1 January 2007 and 31 December 2008, and a 5-year follow-up was performed. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis for time to start insulin therapy was generated and factors associated with insulin initiation were determined using logistic regression. RESULTS: A total of 1042 patients (52.4% women), mean age 63.4 years at the start of pharmacological treatment. After 5 years, 272 patients (26.1%) initiated insulin therapy. Using combination therapy of metformin and glibenclamide was associated with greater risk of insulin initiation (OR: 1.64, 95% CI: 1.12-2.40, p=0.010), while being a male over 45 years of age (OR: 0.59, 95% CI: 0.37-0.96, p=0.034) and initiating OAD therapy with metformin (OR: 0.30, 95% CI: 0.20-0.46, p<0.001) reduced the risk of insulin use. CONCLUSIONS: After 5 years of OAD treatment, 26.1% of people with T2DM started insulin therapy. Age, sex and type of initial OAD affected the probability of switching to insulin in these patients in Colombia.

Social, cultural and economic factors associated with self-medication.

INTRODUCTION: Self-medication is an increasingly frequent phenomenon worldwide; some studies suggest that there is a relationship with socio-economic and cultural factors. OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of self-medication and its related factors in a Colombian city. MATERIALS AND METHODS: Cross-sectional descriptive study, in Pereira, Colombia. We selected 414 adults using simple randomization sampling with houses used as the observational unit. The IRIS-AM instrument was used to collect the information required. RESULTS: Four hundred and fourteen (414) people were interviewed, 62.6% were females, and mean age was 44 years; 77.5% of the sample had self-medicated at least once in their life and 31.9% during the last month. The most commonly used medications were: analgesics and antipyretics (44.3%), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and anti-rheumatic medication (36.4%), and anti-histamine medication (8.5%). The most commonly self-medicated symptoms were: headache (55.7%), cold (16.2%) and muscular pain (13.2%). Multivariate analysis revealed an association between self-medication throughout life and storing medications at home, and between a high level of education and having a favorable opinion of self-medication. Storing medications at home and recommending them to others were associated with self-medication during the previous 30 days. CONCLUSION: Self-medication rates were found to be similar to those reported globally, but there is not an established pattern for this practice. Associations were found between social and demographic variables and self-medication, which require further characterization. Intention to self-medicate has not been well-described in other studies, and may be an important indicator which will contribute to future understanding of this phenomenon.

Social, cultural and economic factors associated with self-medication / Factores económicos, sociales y culturales asociados con la automedicación

Introduction: Self-medication is an increasingly frequent phenomenon worldwide; some studies suggest that there is a relationship with socio-economic and cultural factors. Objective: To determine the prevalence of self-medication and its related factors in a Colombian city. Materials and methods: Cross-sectional descriptive study, in Pereira, Colombia. We selected 414 adults using simple randomization sampling with houses used as the observational unit. The IRIS-AM instrument was used to collect the information required. Results: Four hundred and fourteen (414) people were interviewed, 62.6% were females, and mean age was 44 years; 77.5% of the sample had self-medicated at least once in their life and 31.9% during the last month. The most commonly used medications were: analgesics and antipyretics (44.3%), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and anti-rheumatic medication (36.4%), and anti-histamine medication (8.5%). The most commonly self-medicated symptoms were: headache (55.7%), cold (16.2%) and muscular pain (13.2%). Multivariate analysis revealed an association between self-medication throughout life and storing medications at home, and between a high level of education and having a favorable opinion of self-medication. Storing medications at home and recommending them to others were associated with self-medication during the previous 30 days. Conclusion: Self-medication rates were found to be similar to those reported globally, but there is not an established pattern for this practice. Associations were found between social and demographic variables and self-medication, which require further characterization. Intention to self-medicate has not been well-described in other studies, and may be an important indicator which will contribute to future understanding of this phenomenon.

Introducción. La automedicación es un fenómeno cada vez más frecuente a nivel mundial. Los estudios en este campo sugieren que hay una relación entre la automedicación y diversos factores sociodemográficos y económicos. Objetivo. Determinar la prevalencia de la automedicación y los factores relacionados en Pereira, Colombia. Materiales y métodos. Estudio descriptivo de corte transversal llevado a cabo en la población de Pereira. Se hizo un muestreo aleatorio por afijación proporcional en 414 adultos, y se desarrolló y aplicó la encuesta IRIS-AM ( Instrument for Systematic Data Collection of Self-Medication ). Resultados. Se encuestaron 414 personas, 62,6 % de las cuales eran mujeres; el promedio de edad fue de 44 años. La prevalencia de la automedicación fue de 77,5 % a lo largo de la vida y de 31,9 % en los 30 días previos. Los medicamentos más comúnmente utilizados fueron los analgésicos y antipiréticos (44,3 %), los antiinflamatorios no esteroideos (36,4 %), y los antihistamínicos (8,5 %). Los síntomas que llevaron a la automedicación con mayor frecuencia fueron la cefalea (55,7 %), el resfriado (16,2 %) y el dolor muscular (13,2 %). Los análisis multivariados mostraron asociación entre la automedicación a lo largo de la vida y guardar medicamentos en casa, así como entre tener un nivel superior de escolaridad y estar a favor de la automedicación. Los factores referentes a almacenar medicamentos y recomendarlos a otros se asociaron con la automedicación en los 30 días previos. Conclusiones. La prevalencia de la automedicación hallada en este estudio fue similar a la reportada previamente a nivel mundial; aun así, no existe un patrón establecido para esta práctica. Se evidenciaron las variables sociodemográficas asociadas con la automedicación, las cuales requieren una mejor caracterización. La intención de recurrir a la automedicación ha sido poco estudiada y podría ser un indicador importante para la medición y comprensión de este fenómeno.

Riesgo cardiovascular y de diabetes en población carcelaria de Pereira, Colombia, 2010 / Cardiovascular and diabetes risk in penitentiary population of Pereira, Colombia, 2010

Introducción: La diabetes y las enfermedades cardiovasculares son responsables de una gran proporción de la morbilidad y mortalidad a nivel mundial y la población carcelaria es especialmente vulnerable a estas enfermedades. Objetivo: Determinar el riesgo de eventos cardiovasculares y de diabetes tipo 2 en personas privadas de la libertad del Centro Carcelario y Penitenciario de Varones de la Ciudad de Pereira. Métodos: Estudio descriptivo con muestreo por conveniencia. Se aplicaron instrumentos para valorar el riesgo de desarrollar diabetes tipo 2 y eventos cardiovasculares en diez años. Resultados: Se valoraron 61 hombres con edad promedio de 48 años. La poca ingesta de vegetales (70%), obesidad central (66%), sedentarismo (62%) y tabaquismo (54%) fueron los factores de riesgo más prevalentes; el riesgo cardiovascular a 10 años fue entre 10 y 20% en el 10% y mayor al 40% en el 16% de la población, solo el 33% de los valorados fueron clasificados como de bajo riesgo para diabetes tipo 2. Discusión: La alta prevalencia de factores de riesgo modificables y el alto riesgo calculado para diabetes tipo 2 y enfermedad cardiovascular hacen necesario implementar programas de promoción y prevención en todos sus niveles más extensivos y eficaces.

Introduction: Both Diabetes and cardiovascular disease have an important burden of morbidity and death worldwide, being prison’s population in an increased risk for those pathologies. Objective: To assess the cardiovascular disease risk and type 2 diabetes mellitus risk in a population of prisoners in Pereira. Methods: A descriptive study was conducted, selecting the population by convenience. Instruments designed to assess type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease risks in ten years were applied. Results: Sixty one males were included in the population, mean age was 48 years. The main cardiovascular risk factors found were: Low vegetables intake (70.5%), abdominal obesity (65.6%), sedentarism (62.3%) and smoking (54.1%); the ten years risk for type 2 diabetes was above low in 66% of the population and the cardiovascular disease risk was between 10% and 20% in 10% of the cases and higher than 40% in 16% of them. Discussion: The high prevalence of modifiable risk factors and measured risk for cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes make it necessary to design and apply programs that aim to promote, prevent and diagnose these pathologies that are more extensive and effective than the current ones.