Year: 2026 | Month: April-June | Volume: 11 | Issue: 2 | Pages: 129-135
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijshr.20260216
Development of a Personal Formulary for Uncomplicated Osteoporosis by Residents of Pharmacology
Nishi1, Ranjana2, Ravi Roushan3, Lalit Mohan4
11Senior Resident, Department of Pharmacology, Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, Bihar (India).
2Additional Professor, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, Bihar (India).
3Senior Resident, Department of Pharmacology, Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, Bihar (India).
4Professor and Head, Department of Pharmacology, Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, Bihar (India).
Corresponding Author: Dr. Ravi Roushan
ABSTRACT
Osteoporosis is a chronic skeletal disorder characterized by reduced bone mass and deterioration of bone microarchitecture, leading to increased fragility fractures and significant morbidity. In India, the burden of osteoporosis is rising due to increasing life expectancy, nutritional deficiencies, sedentary lifestyle, and limited awareness. Rational drug selection is essential to optimize treatment outcomes and reduce healthcare costs. This study aimed to develop a rational personal formulary (P-drug) for osteoporosis using the World Health Organization (WHO) 6-step approach.
The study was conducted in the Department of Pharmacology at Indira Gandhi Institute of Medical Sciences, Patna, Bihar, among postgraduate residents and faculty members. Bisphosphonates available under the Janaushadhi scheme were evaluated using four parameters: efficacy, safety, cost, and convenience. Weighted scores were assigned according to predefined criteria, with efficacy receiving the highest weightage. Alendronate sodium and Ibandronic acid were compared based on published literature, adverse effect profile, affordability, and patient compliance.
Alendronate sodium achieved the highest total weighted score (7.1) compared to Ibandronic acid (5.1), primarily due to its superior efficacy, lower cost, and widespread availability. Consequently, alendronate sodium 70 mg once weekly was selected as the preferred P-drug for osteoporosis. The study highlights the importance of evidence-based and cost-effective prescribing in resource-limited settings. Application of the WHO P-drug concept can promote rational pharmacotherapy, improve adherence, and optimize patient outcomes in osteoporosis management.
Keywords: Osteoporosis, P-drug, Bisphosphonates, Rational drug use, Personal formulary.