Evaluation of Human Albumin Use in Bone Marrow Transplantation Patients in a University Hospital in Iran: A Retrospective Study

Abstract

Introduction: The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of albumin in bone marrow transplanted patients and its possible economic repercussions from its inappropriate use.
Methods and materials: This was a retrospective study in which all patients receiving albumin ) from start to end of treatment( at three bone marrow transplantation wardswere assessed in two consecutive years .The clinical indications for albumin were evaluated on the basis of guidelines.The concomitant drugs that affected albumin levels were assessed.Characteristic data including age,gender,weight,body surface area(BSA),diagnosis, blood group,type of transplantation were recorded .All lab data which included serum creatinine ,alanine aminotransferase , aspartate aminotransferase, alkaline phosphatase, totalprotein, albumin, hematocrite, calcium before and after albuminuse were also recorded . Postconsumption data was in-hospital stay and mortality.
Results: During the study period, 104 patients received albumin at 3 wards (BMT1:36 patients, BMT2:11 patients, BMT3:57 patients). Patients received a mean number of 24.52 ± 20.86 vials. The mean treatment duration was 13.96 ± 9.14 days. Drugs decreasing albumin level did not significantly affect the use of albumin. Weight, total protein and calcium have been significantly altered after albumin use.
Conclusion: Drug Use Evaluation is an opportunity for clinical pharmacist to help improve therapy by designing strategies to reduce the medication error and cost or changing prescriber manners.