<![CDATA[Background: Diarrhea remains a common health issue among children and can lead to dehydration or even death if not managed appropriately. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the Ministry of Health of the Republic of Indonesia recommend the use of oral rehydration salts (ORS) and zinc as the primary treatment for childhood diarrhea. However, variations in prescribing patterns that do not fully align with treatment guidelines are still observed in primary healthcare settings. Purpose: To identify patterns of diarrhea medication prescribing for children, as well as the appropriateness of treatment regimens based on WHO and Ministry of Health guidelines. Method: This descriptive observational study employed a retrospective approach using secondary data specifically prescriptions and medical records from pediatric patients aged 1-11 years diagnosed with diarrhea. The study was conducted at the Public Health Center (Puskesmas) X in Gianyar, Bali. A sample of 52 subjects was selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: The most frequently prescribed single therapy was oral rehydration (21 prescriptions; 40.38%), while the most common combination therapy consisted of micronutrients and oral rehydration (8 prescriptions; 15.38%). An assessment of therapeutic appropriateness based on WHO and Indonesian Ministry of Health guidelines revealed that 39 prescriptions (75%) were compliant, whereas 13 prescriptions (25%) were non-compliant. Conclusion: Prescribing patterns for antidiarrheal medication in children largely align with treatment guidelines. However, an evaluation of rational drug use particularly regarding the use of antibiotics and antidiarrheals is still required.]]>
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