Rational Use of Corticosteroids in the Management of Respiratory Conditions in Children: An Audit of Secondary Hospitals in Ogun State

Background: Corticosteroids are essential agents in the management of childhood asthma, croup, and bronchiolitis, but their irrational use, including overuse, incorrect routes, and inappropriate indications, poses risks of adrenal suppression, growth retardation, and immunosuppression. This study audited corticosteroid use in managing respiratory conditions in children at secondary hospitals in Ogun State. Methods: A retrospective prescription audit was conducted at four general hospitals in Ogun State. A total of 320 paediatric prescription records involving respiratory diagnoses were reviewed over twelve months. Corticosteroid use was assessed against the paediatric respiratory treatment guidelines of the Federal Ministry of Health. Results: Corticosteroids were prescribed in 48 percent of paediatric respiratory cases. Systemic corticosteroids were used in 66 percent of these prescriptions, with inhaled routes underutilised (22%). Corticosteroid use in viral upper respiratory tract infection without evidence of wheeze or airway obstruction was identified in 31 percent of cases. Duration of systemic steroid courses exceeded guideline recommendations in 42 percent of appropriate prescriptions. Conclusion: Corticosteroid prescribing for paediatric respiratory conditions in Ogun State secondary hospitals shows significant rational use deficiencies. Prescriber education and paediatric respiratory treatment audits should be routinised. Keywords: corticosteroids, paediatric respiratory, rational drug use, Ogun State, inhaled steroids