A study on prevalence, clinical profile, severity and prescription pattern of drugs in patients with stroke.

Stroke remains a leading cause of mortality and long-term disability worldwide, with an increasing burden in low- and middle-income countries. This retrospective cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate the prevalence, clinical profile, stroke severity, and pharmacological management patterns among patients admitted with stroke in a tertiary care hospital. A total of 120 consecutive patients were included over a six-month period, and data were obtained from anonymized medical records, including demographics, stroke subtype, presenting symptoms, comorbidities, and prescribed medications. Stroke severity was assessed using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS), and statistical analyses were performed using descriptive and inferential methods. Stroke accounted for 25% of neurology admissions during the study period. The most prevalent age group was 51-60 years (33.3%), followed by 61-70 years (29.2%), with a male predominance (60%). Ischemic stroke constituted 75% of cases. The most common presenting symptom was hemiparesis (66.7%), followed by speech disturbances and visual impairment. Hypertension (58.3%) and diabetes mellitus (41.7%) were the most frequent comorbidities. The majority of patients presented with moderate stroke severity. Stroke severity increased significantly with age, whereas no significant difference was observed between sexes. Antiplatelet therapy was the most commonly prescribed treatment, and dual antiplatelet therapy was administered in 33.3% of patients. Thrombolytic therapy was used in a limited proportion of patients. Stroke in this cohort predominantly affected middle-aged and elderly individuals and was largely ischemic in nature. The high prevalence of modifiable risk factors highlights the need for improved preventive strategies, while the limited use of thrombolysis underscores gaps in acute stroke care.