Irrational prescribing in South Asia: a case of fluoroquinolone-associated phototoxicity.

Prescribing habits in South Asian countries have been subjected to some scrutiny.1-6 Most studies conclude that the quality of prescribing is poor, with overuse of antimicrobials and irrational use of fixed-dose combination therapy, particularly in the private sector.1 Prescriptions for multiple drugs are the rule rather than the exception, with up to seven items being prescribed for a single disease entity. Analgesics, anti-inflammatories and drugs of uncertain pharmacologic efficacy, such as vitamins, minerals and glucose water, are also frequently prescribed.