CLINICAL AND METABOLIC EVALUATION OF PSYCHOTROPIC DRUGS USERS IN THE COVERAGE AREA OF A CENTER FOR FAMILY HEALTH, CAUCAIA-CE, BRAZIL

CLINICAL AND METABOLIC EVALUATION OF PSYCHOTROPIC DRUGS USERS IN THE COVERAGE AREA OF A CENTER FOR FAMILY HEALTH, CAUCAIA-CE, BRAZIL Introduction and objective. Psychiatric Reform supports a decentralized mental health network, based mainly in primary care. Despite the relevance of the topic, there are few studies on psychotropic use by patients in in primary care. To evaluate clinical and metabolic aspects. of psychotropic medications users in a Family Health Center. Methodology. A cross sectional study was conducted in a Family Health Center in metropolitan area of Fortaleza/CE. Data were collected from a questionnaire about sociodemographic, clinical, anthropometric measurements and laboratory tests. Results. Fifty-five people participated in the study. Anxiety and mood disorders were the most prevalent diagnosis. Although most patients (40%) still were symptomatic, the medication doses had not beed adjusted recently. The majority (63.5%) did not adhere adequately. considering length of use, of benzodiazepines, 74.2% have been taking them for one year or more; 32.3%, for 6 years or more. Overweight and obesity predominated in sample (59.6%). Nevertheless, metabolic tests were identified in only 21.8% of patients. Conclusion. There is a dubious follow-up of these patients in chronic use of benzodiazepines, with a relevant percentage with inappropriate doses of medication and absence of adequate exams follow-up. Qualitative studies to better assess the difficulties and advantages of primary mental health care are suggested. Keywords: Primary care. Psychiatry. Psychotropic medications.