OBJECTIVEUndertake analysis of the pragmatic use of Shuxuening injection, in order to understand the drug's characteristics and risks. This will provide the basis for a deeper understanding for risk management.

METHODTwenty general hospitals using Shuxuening injections were selected nationwide. Data analysis of their hospital information systems (HIS), comprising 48 445 inpatients of which 13 936 had received Shuxuening injections, took place. Analysis of patient demographics, drug use, drug combinations and patient deaths was carried out.

RESULTMore than 79% of patients were over 45 years old. Clinical use of the injection was for the treatment of cerebral infarction (equivalent to the Chinese medicine category of zhongfeng), coronary heart disease (equivalent to the Chinese medicine category of xiongbi), diabetes and hypertension. However, only 37.66% of Western medicine diagnoses are in accordance with recommendations and only 49.09% of Chinese medicine diagnoses follow the guidelines. The injection is administered intravenously, with most patients receiving a dosage of 15-20 mL per dose for between 3 and 7 days. It is always combined with aspirin in clinical practice.

CONCLUSIONShuxuening injection is primarily used for older patients. Several clinical risk factors have been identified including administering the wrong dose for inappropriate conditions and failure to follow guidelines. Appropriate risk management is required to protect patients.