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Li Q, Wu J, Chen Z, Wang J, Gong Y, Yin X. Prevalence of self-medication with antibiotics and its related factors among the general public and health professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study in China. Am J Infect Control 2024; 52:759-764. [PMID: 38401644 DOI: 10.1016/j.ajic.2024.02.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 02/16/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-medication with antibiotics (SMA) is a common public health concern. This study aimed to assess the prevalence of SMA in the general public and health professionals during the COVID-19 pandemic and identify the associated factors. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted from October 28, 2022, to November 6, 2022. Logistics regression analysis was used to examine the associated factors. RESULTS The rate of SMA was 10.25% in the general public and 12.69% in health professionals. For the public, those who perceived themselves as average or good health, had moderate antibiotic knowledge, and had easy access to nearby health facilities were less likely to SMA; while those who live in rural areas, found it easy to purchase antibiotics without prescriptions, and those who frequently encountered antibiotics recommended by pharmacy staff were more likely to SMA. For health professionals, those who were female, perceived themselves as good health, had moderate or high antibiotic knowledge, and had easy access to health facilities were less likely to SMA; while those who found it easy to purchase antibiotics without prescriptions were more likely to SMA. CONCLUSIONS SMA is prevalent in both the general public and health professionals. Promoting the rational use of antibiotics requires joint participation and effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qinnan Li
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jianxiong Wu
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Zhenyuan Chen
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Yanhong Gong
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China
| | - Xiaoxv Yin
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, China.
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Mudenda S, Mulenga KM, Nyirongo R, Chabalenge B, Chileshe C, Daka V, M’kandawire E, Jere E, Muma JB. Non-prescription sale and dispensing of antibiotics for prophylaxis in broiler chickens in Lusaka District, Zambia: findings and implications on one health. JAC Antimicrob Resist 2024; 6:dlae094. [PMID: 38863561 PMCID: PMC11166086 DOI: 10.1093/jacamr/dlae094] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2024] [Accepted: 05/24/2024] [Indexed: 06/13/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The irrational use of antibiotics in humans and livestock has contributed to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study investigated the commonly sold and dispensed antibiotics for prophylaxis in broiler chickens in pharmacy and agro-veterinary shop personnel in the Lusaka District of Zambia. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted from August 2023 to October 2023 among 200 veterinary medicine dispensers in the Lusaka District of Zambia using a simulated farmer or mystery shopper approach. Data analysis was performed using IBM Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 23.0. Results Out of the 200 medicine outlets investigated, 23 (11.5%) were agro-veterinary shops, while 177 (88.5%) were community pharmacies. A total of 165 community pharmacies and agro-veterinary shops provided veterinary services in the Lusaka District and sold medicines without prescription giving a 100% non-prescription sale. Of the 178 medicines dispensed for prophylaxis, 88.5% were antibiotics, while 13.5% were vitamins. The most dispensed antibiotic drug for prophylaxis in broiler chickens was oxytetracycline (30.34%), amoxicillin (17.98%) and gentamicin/doxycycline (10.67%). Conclusions This study revealed a high sale and dispensing of antibiotics for prophylaxis in broiler chickens of which oxytetracycline, amoxicillin and gentamicin/doxycycline were commonly dispensed. There is a need for increased regulatory enforcement of selling antibiotics without a prescription as this may predispose poultry to the development of AMR and possible transmission of superbugs to humans and the environment. Educational interventions should be provided to community pharmacy and agro-veterinary personnel on adhering to antimicrobial stewardship practices when dispensing poultry antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Steward Mudenda
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Karen Mubanga Mulenga
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Ruth Nyirongo
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Health Sciences, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Billy Chabalenge
- Department of Medicines Control, Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Chikwanda Chileshe
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Victor Daka
- Department of Disease Control, School of Veterinary Medicine, University of Zambia, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - Ethel M’kandawire
- Department of Public Health, Michael Chilufya Sata School of Medicine, Copperbelt University, Ndola, Zambia
| | - Elimas Jere
- Department of Post Marketing Surveillance, Zambia Medicines Regulatory Authority, Lusaka, Zambia
| | - John Bwalya Muma
- Department of Public Health, Michael Chilufya Sata School of Medicine, Copperbelt University, Ndola, Zambia
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Ahmed N, Yousafzai MT, Naz Qamar F. The Enterics for Global Health (EFGH) Shigella Surveillance Study in Pakistan. Open Forum Infect Dis 2024; 11:S113-S120. [PMID: 38532950 PMCID: PMC10962754 DOI: 10.1093/ofid/ofad651] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/28/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The Enterics for Global Health (EFGH) Shigella surveillance study is a longitudinal multicountry study that aims to estimate incidence rates and document consequences of Shigella diarrhea within 7 countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America. In addition to a high incidence of childhood diarrhea, Pakistan is facing a problem of antimicrobial resistance in urban and peri-urban areas of Karachi. Methods In Pakistan, EFGH will be conducted in Karachi, which is one of the metropolitan cities bordering the Arabian Sea and has a diverse population of 1.6 million according to the 2017 population census. The study aims to enroll 1400 children aged 6-35 months over 2 years (2022-2024) from 6 health care facilities (Abbasi Shaheed Hospital, Khidmat-e-Alam Medical Centre, Sindh Government Hospital Korangi 5, Sindh Government Hospital Ibrahim Hyderi, Ali Akbar Shah VPT Center, and Bhains Colony VPT Center) situated in Nazimabad and Bin-Qasim town. Moreover, population enumeration and health care utilization surveys from a defined catchment area of health facilities will be conducted to estimate the Shigella diarrhea incidence rates. Conclusions The study will provide critical data to policy-makers about the burden of Shigella and antimicrobial resistance, which is essential for planning Shigella vaccine trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Naveed Ahmed
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
| | | | - Farah Naz Qamar
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, The Aga Khan University, Karachi, Pakistan
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Asghar S, Atif M, Arshad S, Masood I, Hashmi A. Probing the parental cognizance of antibiotic resistance by using Health Belief Model: An exploratory study. Res Social Adm Pharm 2024; 20:28-35. [PMID: 37752028 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2023.09.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/06/2023] [Revised: 08/31/2023] [Accepted: 09/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To explore the determinants that innervate or avert the parents to use antibiotics responsibly for their children in Bahawalpur, Pakistan. Further, to assess the cognizance of Pakistani parents about antibiotic resistance. METHODS The Health Belief Model (HBM) was utilized to design this study. Parents who were using antibiotics for their children were taken as study participants. They were recruited purposively from various public and private healthcare settings and were asked to conveniently participate in the study. A total of 18 in-depth interviews were conducted at time and place convenient to the study participants. Data were transcribed, translated and analyzed by framework analysis in accordance with the constructs of Health Belief Model including perceived susceptibility, severity, benefit, barriers, self-efficacy and cues to action. RESULTS Within each HBM construct, responses of participants were analyzed, yielding 8 themes and 17 subthemes. Parents had a knowledge of antibiotics but considered their families to be at low risk of antibiotic resistance since their families were "low users" of antibiotics. Majority of the participants were not aware of the indications and risks of antibiotic use and perceived the antibiotics as a quick fix for every ailment. Communicating the risks of antibiotic resistance to parents and providing actionable solutions to tackle antibiotic resistance may address these perceptions. CONCLUSION Though parents revealed awareness about antibiotics, they continue to overestimate the value of antibiotics. Refocus of the antibiotic stewardship interventions are required and these campaigns are needed to be tailored to target their intended audience in a format that is appropriate to them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Saima Asghar
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan.
| | - Muhammad Atif
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Saria Arshad
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Imran Masood
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
| | - Ayesha Hashmi
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, The Islamia University of Bahawalpur, Bahawalpur, Pakistan
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Alam M, Saleem Z, Haseeb A, Qamar MU, Sheikh A, Almarzoky Abuhussain SS, Iqbal MS, Raees F, Chigome A, Cook A, Moore CE, Mustafa ZU, Salman M, Saleh U, Shabbir S, Godman B. Tackling antimicrobial resistance in primary care facilities across Pakistan: Current challenges and implications for the future. J Infect Public Health 2023; 16 Suppl 1:97-110. [PMID: 37973496 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2023.10.046] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibiotics are gradually becoming less effective against bacteria worldwide, and this issue is of particular concern in economically-developing nations like Pakistan. We undertook a scoping review in order to review the literature on antimicrobial use, prescribing, dispensing and the challenges associated with antimicrobial resistance in primary care (PC) settings in Pakistan. Furthermore, this review aims to identify potential solutions to promote appropriate use of antimicrobials in Pakistan. Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses extension for scoping reviews (PRISMA-ScR) checklist, a comprehensive scoping review was conducted to review the literature of antimicrobials used, prescribed and dispensed in PC settings in Pakistan. Google Scholar and Pub-Med were searched for the period 2000-2023. Papers were analyzed on the basis of eligibility i.e., included antimicrobial use, prescribing and dispensing practices by general population at homes, by prescribers in outpatient departments of hospitals and by pharmacists/dispensers in community pharmacies, respectively. Two researchers analyzed the articles thoroughly and disagreements were resolved through discussion with a third reviewer. Both quantitative and qualitative research studies were eligible for inclusion. Additionally, the selected papers were grouped into different themes. We identified 4070 papers out of which 46 studies satisfied our eligibility criteria. The findings revealed limited understanding of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) by physicians and community pharmacists along with inappropriate practices in prescribing and dispensing antibiotics. Moreover, a notable prevalence of self-medication with antibiotics was observed among the general population, underscoring a lack of awareness and knowledge concerning proper antibiotic usage. Given the clinical and public health implications of AMR, Pakistan must prioritize its policies in PC settings. Healthcare professionals (HCPs) need to reduce inappropriate antibiotic prescribing and dispensing, improve their understanding of the AWaRe (access, watch and reserve antibiotics) classification and guidance, monitor current usage and resistance trends, as well as implement antimicrobial stewardship (ASP) activities starting in targeted locations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muniba Alam
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan
| | - Zikria Saleem
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan 60800, Pakistan.
| | - Abdul Haseeb
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 21955, Saudi Arabia
| | - Muhammad Usman Qamar
- Institute of Microbiology, Faculty of Life Sciences, Government College University Faisalabad, Faisalabad 38000, Pakistan; Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine, Geneva University Hospitals and Medical School, Geneva, Switzerland
| | - Aziz Sheikh
- Usher Institute, The University of Edinburgh, Teviot Place, Edinburgh EH16 4UX, UK
| | | | - Muhammad Shahid Iqbal
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Prince Sattam bin Abdulaziz University, Alkharj, Saudi Arabia
| | - Fahad Raees
- Department of Medical Microbiology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24382, Saudi Arabia
| | - Audrey Chigome
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa
| | - Aislinn Cook
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute of Infection and Immunity, St. George's University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK; Health Economics Research Centre, Nuffield Department of Population Health, University of Oxford, Oxford OX1 2JD, UK
| | - Catrin E Moore
- Centre for Neonatal and Paediatric Infection, Institute of Infection and Immunity, St. George's University of London, London SW17 0RE, UK
| | - Zia-Ul- Mustafa
- Department of Pharmacy Services, District Headquarter Hospital, Pakpattan, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Salman
- Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmaceutical and Allied Health Sciences, Lahore College for Women University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Umar Saleh
- University College of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Sana Shabbir
- University College of Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Brian Godman
- Department of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Ga-Rankuwa 0208, South Africa; Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, UK
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Hashmi FK, Khadka S, Yadav GK, Khan MM, Khan SU, Saeed H, Saleem M, Giri S, Rasool MF, Mansoor HUH, Riboua Z. Non-prescription antibiotics dispensing by community pharmacies: implications for antimicrobial resistance. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2023; 85:5899-5907. [PMID: 38098592 PMCID: PMC10718340 DOI: 10.1097/ms9.0000000000001388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2023] [Accepted: 09/28/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction The non-prescription antibiotics dispensing (NPAD) from pharmacies is on the rise in low- and middle-income countries, which contributes to the emergence of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). This study was conducted with the objective to determine the community pharmacy personnel's perspectives on NPAD and its implications for AMR. Methods A questionnaire-based cross-sectional survey was conducted in Pakistan among 336 pharmacies. The data were analyzed using SPSS v21 and MedCalc for Windows v12.3.0. Modified Bloom's cut-off point was utilized to categorize the participants' overall knowledge, attitude, and practice. For univariable logistic regression analyses, odds ratio (OR) was calculated at 95% confidence interval (CI). For multivariable logistic regression analyses, adjusted OR was calculated at 95% CI. Spearman's rank correlation coefficient test was used to assess the relationships among knowledge, attitude, and/or practice scores. Results The majority of the respondents were staff pharmacists (45.5%). About four-fifths (78.9%) and half (50.9%) of the participants demonstrated moderate to good knowledge and practice, respectively. However, about only one-third (33.1%) had a moderate to good attitude. Staff pharmacists had higher odds of moderate to good knowledge (OR: 2.4, 95% CI: 1.2-4.7) and practice (OR: 2.3, 95% CI: 1.4-3.8). Total knowledge and practice (Spearman's ρ: 0.280; P <0.001) and total attitude and practice (Spearman's ρ: 0.299; P <0.001) scores were significantly correlated. Conclusion The qualified pharmacists had satisfactory knowledge, attitude, and practices toward antibiotics. However, non-pharmacist staff lacked knowledge and had probable NPAD practice, which has a negative impact on public health. Regular refresher training, seminars, and strict enforcement of rules and regulations are essential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Furqan K. Hashmi
- Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Punjab
| | - Sitaram Khadka
- Shree Birendra Hospital, Nepalese Army Institute of Health Sciences, Kathmandu
| | | | | | - Saif Ullah Khan
- Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Punjab
| | - Hamid Saeed
- Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Punjab
| | - Mohammad Saleem
- Punjab University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, Punjab
| | | | - Muhammad Fawad Rasool
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | | | - Zineb Riboua
- McCourt School of Public Policy, Georgetown University, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
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Hamadouk RM, Alshareif EM, Ibrahim OM, Albashair ED, Yousef BA. The Extent of Antibiotic Dispensing in Self-Medication Encounters in Sudan: A Simulated Patient Study Focusing on Cefixime Sale. INTEGRATED PHARMACY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 12:227-237. [PMID: 38033381 PMCID: PMC10683652 DOI: 10.2147/iprp.s440010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Antibiotics play an important role in decreasing morbidity and mortality worldwide. However, inappropriate use of them by patients or healthcare professionals contributes to their resistance rendering them less efficacious. Community pharmacists (CPs) have a significant part in reducing antibiotic resistance. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the dispensing of antibiotics without prescription in community pharmacies with an emphasis on cefixime dispensing. Methods A cross-sectional, simulated patient (SP) study was conducted in the Khartoum locality. A total of 238 community pharmacies were randomly chosen using simple random sampling. One scenario of uncomplicated urinary tract infection was designed, and six female pharmacy students who were trained to act as SPs presented the scenario. Descriptive statistics were applied to report the study outcomes. Results In the 238 pharmacy visits, at least one antibiotic was dispensed without a prescription in 69.3% of the simulated visits. Among the dispensed antibiotics, ciprofloxacin was the most dispensed antibiotic followed by cefixime representing 51.5% and 41.8%, respectively, of total dispensed antibiotics. Cefixime was dispensed as a first choice by CPs in 29% of the visits, and in the rest of the visits, only 37.3% of CPs refused to dispense cefixime after SP demand. Conclusion The findings revealed a high rate of antibiotics dispensing without prescription by CPs in Khartoum state, and cefixime was obtained with ease before and after the patient's demand. Urgent corrective actions such as imposing strict regulations, monitoring pharmacists' practice, and endorsing educational programs for pharmacists are needed to prevent inappropriate antibiotic dispensing practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riham M Hamadouk
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Almughtaribeen University, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Einass M Alshareif
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | | | - Esra D Albashair
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Bashir A Yousef
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
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Pramestutie HR, Kristina SA, Lazuardi L, Widayanti AW. Using the Simulated Patient Method to Evaluate the Community Pharmacy Management of Childhood Diarrhoea: A Systematic Review. Malays J Med Sci 2023; 30:52-69. [PMID: 37928786 PMCID: PMC10624447 DOI: 10.21315/mjms2023.30.5.5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2022] [Accepted: 02/21/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2023] Open
Abstract
The simulated patient method has been widely used to assess community pharmacy practice in the management of childhood diarrhoea. In such a process, a community pharmacist is required to explore a patient's history, choose the right medication and provide drug-related information. The aim of this review was to evaluate the aforementioned practice. A comprehensive literature search was carried out over Sage Journal, PubMed, ScienceDirect and Google Scholar, and the analysis was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Eligible articles were those published from 2011 to 2021 and original studies that used the simulated patient method to examine the pharmaceutical services provided by pharmacists in relation to childhood diarrhoea. The eight studies that satisfied the eligibility criteria were reviewed. These investigations were undertaken in Brazil, Nigeria, Turkey, Ethiopia and Pakistan. Five of the studies focused on history taking with regard to the characteristics of diarrhoea and revealed that the evaluated pharmacists asked about patient histories. In terms of therapy, three studies indicated that the evaluated pharmacists recommended the administration of oral rehydration salts. Pharmacies should improve their history-taking process, provide drug-related information and recommend therapies to increase the knowledge of simulated patients about diarrhoea treatment in children.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hananditia Rachma Pramestutie
- Doctoral Program in Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
- Department of Community Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Brawijaya, Malang, Indonesia
| | - Susi Ari Kristina
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Lutfan Lazuardi
- Department of Health Policy and Management, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
| | - Anna Wahyuni Widayanti
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Gadjah Mada, Yogyakarta, Indonesia
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Li J, Zhou P, Wang J, Li H, Xu H, Meng Y, Ye F, Tan Y, Gong Y, Yin X. Worldwide dispensing of non-prescription antibiotics in community pharmacies and associated factors: a mixed-methods systematic review. THE LANCET. INFECTIOUS DISEASES 2023; 23:e361-e370. [PMID: 37105212 DOI: 10.1016/s1473-3099(23)00130-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/29/2022] [Revised: 02/06/2023] [Accepted: 02/22/2023] [Indexed: 04/29/2023]
Abstract
This mixed-method systemic review estimated the pooled prevalence of non-prescription antibiotic dispensing in community pharmacies worldwide and identified associated factors influencing the practice. 162 studies covering 52 countries were included. The pooled prevalence of community pharmacy non-prescription antibiotic dispensing was 63·4% (95% CI 59·6-67·1). The prevalence was significantly higher in low-income countries than in high-income countries. Additionally, the situation of dispensing antibiotics without prescriptions has not improved over time in the past two decades. Quantitative studies showed that pharmacies located in poorer economic areas, pharmacy staff who were also the pharmacy owners, and private pharmacies were more likely to dispense non-prescription antibiotics. Qualitative findings suggested four major factors driving antibiotics being dispensed without a prescription. First, strong customer demand for non-prescription antibiotics and a lack of relevant knowledge; second, pharmacy staff motivated by financial or personal viewpoints; third, alternative health-care services being expensive or inconvenient, or having irregular prescribing practices; and finally, weak social, industry, and legal regulation. The current antibiotic stewardship needs to be strengthened.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jinxi Li
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Pengfei Zhou
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Jing Wang
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Hui Li
- School of Health Services Management, Anhui Medical University, Hefei, China
| | - Hongbin Xu
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuan Meng
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Feng Ye
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yuqian Tan
- Department of Health Toxicology, Key Laboratory for Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yanhong Gong
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Xiaoxv Yin
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China.
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Understanding of Final Year Medical, Pharmacy and Nursing Students in Pakistan towards Antibiotic Use, Antimicrobial Resistance and Stewardship: Findings and Implications. Antibiotics (Basel) 2023; 12:antibiotics12010135. [PMID: 36671336 PMCID: PMC9854661 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics12010135] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2022] [Revised: 01/03/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a leading public health threat, which is exacerbated by the high and inappropriate use of antibiotics. Consequently, there is a need to evaluate knowledge regarding antibiotic use, AMR and the readiness to implement antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) among final year medical, pharmacy and nursing students in Pakistan. This reflects the high and increasing rates of AMR in the country, and students as future healthcare professionals (HCPs). A cross-sectional study was conducted among 1251 final year students from 23 public and private educational institutions in Punjab. The majority of the surveyed participants possessed good knowledge of antibiotic use, AMR and the potential causes of AMR. The most common sources of the information on antibiotics were smartphones (69.9%), peers (35.9%) and medical textbooks (30.6%). However, most surveyed participants were not fully prepared to participate in ASPs. They knew, though, how to reduce AMR by educating HCPs about appropriate prescribing, implementing ASPs and improving laboratory facilities. There was a significant association between antibiotic knowledge and causes of AMR with sex, family income and student type (p < 0.05). Being a student at a public sector university (OR = 4.809; CI = 3.261−7.094; p < 0.001) and age (OR = 0.524, CI = 0.327−0.842; p < 0.008) were among the key factors impacting students’ training on ASPs. Educational curricula must be improved to include more information about appropriate antibiotic use and ASPs, along with sufficient training, workshops and clinical rotations in the final year, to fully equip students by graduation.
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Edessa D, Assefa N, Dessie Y, Asefa F, Dinsa G, Oljira L. Non-prescribed antibiotic use for children at community levels in low- and middle-income countries: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J Pharm Policy Pract 2022; 15:57. [PMID: 36180895 PMCID: PMC9524137 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-022-00454-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2022] [Accepted: 09/20/2022] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Non-prescribed antibiotic use is an emerging risky practice around the globe. An inappropriate use involving nonprescription access is one cause of the rapid increase in antibiotic resistance. Children commonly encounter many self-limiting illnesses for which they frequently use antibiotics without prescription. However, no specific and conclusive evidence exists to inform actions against this unsafe practice. We thus aimed to estimate the pooled proportion of non-prescribed antibiotic use for children at community levels in low- and middle-income countries. METHODS A systematic search of records was conducted from PubMed/Medline, Embase, Scopus, CINAHL, and Google scholar. Eligible English-language publications were original articles which reported on community-based non-prescribed antibiotic use for children and conducted in low- and middle-income countries. Study features and the number of antibiotics used without prescriptions were extracted and pooled for effect sizes employing a random-effects model. The pooled proportion of non-prescribed antibiotic use was estimated as a percentage. RESULTS In this analysis, we included a total of 39 articles consisting of 40,450 participants. Of these, 16,315 participants used non-prescribed antibiotics. The pooled percentage for this use of non-prescribed antibiotics was 45% (95% CI: 40-50%). The estimate was considerably higher in studies involving simulated patient methods (56%; 95% CI: 49-62%) than those studies with community surveys (40%; 95% CI: 34-46%) (P = 0.001). It was also varied by the recall period of antibiotics use-56% (95% CI: 50-62%) for instantly observed practice, 36% (95% CI: 22-50%) for within two week recall, 35% (95% CI: 26-45%) for 1-6 months recall, and 46% (95% CI: 37-54%) for more than six months recall (P = 0.001). Primary access points for the non-prescribed antibiotic uses were retail drug outlets. CONCLUSIONS We found that nearly half of the antibiotics used for children in community settings were without prescriptions. For these unsafe practices, caregivers accessed antibiotics mainly from drug outlets. Hence, context-specific educational and regulatory interventions at these outlets and the community levels are the first steps to improving antibiotic usage for children in low- and middle-income countries. TRIAL REGISTRATION NUMBER CRD42021288971 (PROSPERO). https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?ID=CRD42021288971 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Dumessa Edessa
- School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia. .,School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia.
| | - Nega Assefa
- School of Nursing and Midwifery, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Yadeta Dessie
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Fekede Asefa
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia.,Center for Biomedical Informatics, Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, University of Tennessee Health Science Center-Oak Ridge National Laboratory (UTHSC-ORNL, Memphis, TN, USA
| | - Girmaye Dinsa
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia.,School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, Canada
| | - Lemessa Oljira
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
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12
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Exploring Knowledge of Antibiotic Use, Resistance, and Stewardship Programs among Pharmacy Technicians Serving in Ambulatory Care Settings in Pakistan and the Implications. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11070921. [PMID: 35884175 PMCID: PMC9311796 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11070921] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2022] [Revised: 06/28/2022] [Accepted: 07/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a leading global health threat, increasing morbidity, mortality, and costs, with excessive and irrational use of antimicrobials contributing to the development of AMR. Consequently, the aims of this study were to evaluate the understanding of antibiotic use, AMR, and antimicrobial stewardship programs (ASPs) among pharmacy technicians serving in ambulatory healthcare settings in Pakistan. A cross-sectional survey was conducted among pharmacy technicians serving in 144 ambulatory care settings in seven districts of Punjab province using a validated questionnaire. Overall, 376 technicians completed the survey (85.8% response rate). The majority were men (89.1%), aged 25−35 years (45.1%), serving in emergency departments (43.9%) and filling 31−60 prescriptions per day (37.5%). Most (79.5%) knew that antibiotics were one of the most frequently prescribed drug classes, while 59.8% believed antibiotics for common colds did not speed up recovery. Inadequate duration (59.6%) and inadequate dosages (57.7%) of antibiotic therapy were reported as the leading causes of AMR. Terms including ‘superbugs’, ‘multidrug resistance’, and ‘extensively drug resistance’ were known to 42.0%, 25.3%, and 20.7% of participants, respectively; however, <10% knew about ASPs, including their core elements and purpose. Our study revealed that pharmacy technicians have adequate awareness of antibiotic use but are currently unaware of AMR and ASPs, which is a concern.
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Aslam A, Zin CS, Jamshed S, Rahman NSA, Ahmed SI, Pallós P, Gajdács M. Self-Medication with Antibiotics: Prevalence, Practices and Related Factors among the Pakistani Public. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11060795. [PMID: 35740201 PMCID: PMC9219843 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11060795] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2022] [Revised: 06/09/2022] [Accepted: 06/10/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Self-medication with antibiotics (SMA) has become considerably common in developing countries, which is a critical factor for driving antibiotic resistance. Individuals involved in SMA generally do not have adequate knowledge regarding the appropriate use, indications and dosage of these drugs. The objective of the present study was to investigate population SMA practices, knowledge and sociodemographic factors associated with SMA in Islamabad, Pakistan. The study adopted a cross-sectional methodology and data collection was performed through an anonymous, structured and pilot-tested questionnaire, which was interview-administered. Inferential statistics and multivariate logistic regression were performed. Out of 480 participants, 55.6% (n = 267) were male with a mean age of 37.1 ± 10.1 years; the total prevalence of SMA was 32.5%. Ciprofloxacin (42.9%) was the most commonly used antibiotic to treat coughs or colds, a runny nose, flu or sore throat, diarrhea or fevers, which were relevant reasons for SMA. Findings from multivariate logistic regression showed that predictors of SMA were: male gender (95% CI: 0.383–1.005), age (95% CI: 0.317–0.953) and highest level of education (95% CI: 0.961–0.649). Despite reasonable access to healthcare facilities, people are still obtaining antibiotics without prescription, bypassing diagnostic and consultative healthcare services. Thus, the government must implement strict healthcare policies to restrict the sale of antibiotics without prescriptions, while at the same time, targeted public awareness campaigns about the proper use of antibiotics are also required.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adeel Aslam
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Kulliyyah of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan 25200, Malaysia; (A.A.); (C.S.Z.); (N.S.A.R.)
| | - Che Suraya Zin
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Kulliyyah of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan 25200, Malaysia; (A.A.); (C.S.Z.); (N.S.A.R.)
| | - Shazia Jamshed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin (UniSZA), Kuala Terengganu 20400, Malaysia;
| | - Norny Syafinaz Ab Rahman
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Kulliyyah of Pharmacy, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan 25200, Malaysia; (A.A.); (C.S.Z.); (N.S.A.R.)
| | - Syed Imran Ahmed
- School of Pharmacy, College of Science, University of Lincoln, Lincoln LN6 7TS, UK;
| | - Péter Pallós
- Department of Oral Biology and Experimental Dental Research, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary;
| | - Márió Gajdács
- Department of Oral Biology and Experimental Dental Research, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary;
- Correspondence:
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14
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Hayat K, Fatima N, Umer MF, Khan FU, Khan FU, Najeeb ZUR, Ghaffari MA, Raza SQ, Liu W, Chen C, Fang Y. Understanding of Future Prescribers About Antimicrobial Resistance and Their Preparedness Towards Antimicrobial Stewardship Activities in Pakistan: Findings and Implications. Front Pharmacol 2022; 13:771083. [PMID: 35350757 PMCID: PMC8957880 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2022.771083] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2021] [Accepted: 02/03/2022] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Insufficient antimicrobial-related training for physicians during their undergraduate education could have a negative impact on their prescribing. Unlike previous studies, this study not only explored the understanding and perception of Pakistani medical students about antibiotics and resistance, but also their preparedness towards antimicrobial stewardship programs. Methods: An online cross-sectional study was undertaken with final-year medical students using a validated questionnaire from January 2021 to May 2021. Descriptive and inference statistics were applied for data analysis. Results: Of 411 students, only 6.3% had undergone antimicrobial resistance (AMR) training. 16.1% of students believed that antibiotics are effective for viral ailments. More than half of the students agreed that AMR is a major healthcare problem in Pakistan (65.9%). Most students viewed poor infection control practices (66.9%), the use of too many broad-spectrum antibiotics (68.4%) for a longer duration (62.8%) with inadequate doses (67.9%) as the causes of AMR. The student’s preparation was insufficient in interpreting microbiological and pathological results (26.3%), selecting the correct antibiotics (22.1%), and awareness of the antibiotic spectrum (20.9%). The median preparedness score showed significant differences with sex (p = 0.049), age (p < 0.001), institute type (p = 0.014), and family income (p = 0.006). Conclusion: Pakistani medical students showed adequate understanding of antibiotics, but lacked preparedness for several components of ASPs, including interpretation of microbiological results and spectrum of antibiotics. More steps need to be taken to prepare medical students for AMR and stewardship initiatives adequately.
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Affiliation(s)
- Khezar Hayat
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Centre for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Noor Fatima
- Department of Pharmacology, Central Park Medical College, Lahore, Pakistan
| | | | - Farman Ullah Khan
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Centre for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China
| | - Faiz Ullah Khan
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Centre for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China
| | | | - Muhammad Abuzar Ghaffari
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, Faculty of Pharmacy, Bahauddin Zakariya University, Multan, Pakistan
| | - Syed Qasim Raza
- Institute of Biochemistry and Biotechnology, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Wenchen Liu
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Centre for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China
| | - Chen Chen
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Centre for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China
| | - Yu Fang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Centre for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Centre for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China
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15
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Edessa D, Sisay M, Hagos B, Amare F. Antimicrobial Use and Management of Childhood Diarrhea at Community Drug Retail Outlets in Eastern Ethiopia: A Matched Questionnaire-Based and Simulated Patient-Case Study. Pediatric Health Med Ther 2022; 13:63-79. [PMID: 35340354 PMCID: PMC8943828 DOI: 10.2147/phmt.s348204] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2021] [Accepted: 03/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction Antimicrobial agents have saved millions of lives worldwide. However, inappropriate use has become a global concern leading to the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR). In this regard, the dispensing practices of pharmacy professionals in the community drug retail outlets (CDROs) plays a central role. Therefore, this study was aimed to assess the knowledge and dispensing practices of pharmacy professionals in the management of childhood diarrhea in CDROs of Eastern Ethiopia. Methods A community based cross-sectional study was conducted in 100 randomly selected CDROs in Eastern Ethiopia from 1 August to 30 September 2020. Data were collected with a structured questionnaire matched with a simulated patient case. Descriptive statistics were employed to summarize variables. Cohen's Kappa was analyzed to measure the degree of agreement between questionnaire-based and simulated patient-based methods. Binary logistic regression analysis was conducted to determine factors associated with inappropriate dispensing practice. Results Majority of the participants were aged 25-34 years (median: 29 years). High proportion of them were male (65%) and had work experiences of two or more years. Majority (61%) of the professionals were knowledgeable about AMR. Out of 2886 scores, 745 scores were agreed on Cohen's Kappa interrater agreement scale with the overall percent agreement between the two methods being 26.0%. Besides, about 67% of dispensing practices to the simulated patient case was found inappropriate. On the multivariate analysis, insufficient knowledge of retailers on AMR was significantly associated with the inappropriate dispensing of antimicrobial agents. Conclusion A considerable proportion of retailers had insufficient knowledge regarding the emergence and spread of AMR. Only a quarter of their questionnaire-based knowledge response agreed with simulated-patient-based actual practice, indicating weak agreement between the two methods and high level of inappropriate practice. Besides, insufficient knowledge of retailers was significantly associated with their inappropriate dispensing of antimicrobials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dumessa Edessa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Mekonnen Sisay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Bisrat Hagos
- Department of Social Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Firehiwot Amare
- Department of Pharmacology and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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16
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Ahmad T, Khan FU, Ali S, Rahman AU, Ali Khan S. Assessment of without prescription antibiotic dispensing at community pharmacies in Hazara Division, Pakistan: A simulated client's study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0263756. [PMID: 35176043 PMCID: PMC8853528 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0263756] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Antibiotics dispensing without a prescription is an irrational practice and can increase the risk of antibiotic resistance, which is a significant public health concern around the globe. This study was aimed to determine the extent to which antibiotics are supplied without prescription in the community pharmacies (CPs) at Hazara Division from November 2020 to February 2021. The simulated client method (SCM) was used, and the data were gathered, recorded, and analyzed through different statistical methods with descriptive and inferential techniques. The antibiotic dispensing was observed in CPs (90.5%), the most dispensed antibiotics were azithromycin (29.4%) and ciprofloxacin (46.5%) respectively. Furthermore, visited medical stores/ drug outlets, 9.5% of the visited stores denied dispensing of antibiotics because they preferred a referral to visit physicians (23. 9%) and (12.8%) did not had the antibiotics at the time of visits. Antibiotics were more obtainable in retail medical stores (AOR = 8.6, 95 percent Cl: 3.0–24.7; p = 0.001) than in pharmacies. In rural areas antibiotics dispensing was more (p = 0.004) as compared to urban areas. Staff members also had asked about patient’s (17.7%) symptoms and drug allergies (12.3% and 3.9%), and (1.5%) they consoled them about their medications. The findings of this study indicate that nonprescription antibiotic sales are very common, despite national rules prohibiting this activity. When the simulated Client requested for any medication to relieve his or her discomfort, many antibiotics were given out without a prescription. Pharmacies/medical stores in Hazara Division selling antibiotics without a prescription are worrying and need immediate action by regulators.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tawseef Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacy, COMSATS University Islamabad-Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad, Pakistan
| | - Faiz Ullah Khan
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, China
| | - Sayyad Ali
- Department of Pharmacy, COMSATS University Islamabad-Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad, Pakistan
| | - Asad Ur Rahman
- Department of Pharmacy, COMSATS University Islamabad-Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad, Pakistan
| | - Shujaat Ali Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, COMSATS University Islamabad-Abbottabad Campus, Abbottabad, Pakistan
- * E-mail: ,
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17
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Assessment of Factors Associated with Unfavorable Outcomes among Drug-Resistant TB Patients: A 6-Year Retrospective Study from Pakistan. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19031574. [PMID: 35162598 PMCID: PMC8835434 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19031574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2021] [Revised: 01/02/2022] [Accepted: 01/11/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
The spread of drug-resistant tuberculosis (DR TB) poses significant challenges to the control and successful eradication of TB globally. The current retrospective study was designed to evaluate the treatment outcomes and identify the risk factors associated with unsuccessful outcomes among DR TB patients. A total of 277/308 eligible DR TB patients were enrolled for treatment at the programmatic management unit of DR TB at the Pakistan Institute of Medical Sciences, Islamabad between January 2014 and July 2019. Treatment outcomes were defined according to the WHO recommendations. Death, treatment failure, and lost to follow-up (LTFU) were collectively grouped as unsuccessful treatment outcomes, whereas cured and treatment completed were summed up together as successful treatment outcomes. Out of the total 277 patients, 265 (95.67%) were multidrug/rifampicin-resistant TB (MDR/RR-TB) cases, 8 (2.89%) were isoniazid resistant cases, and 4 (1.44%) were extensively drug-resistant ones. In the current cohort, a total of 177 (63.9%) achieved successful treatment outcomes. Among them, 153 (55.2%) were declared cured and 24 (8.7%) completed their treatment. Of the remaining 100 (36.1%) patients with unsuccessful outcomes, 60 (21.7%) died, 32 (11.5%) were LTFU, and 8 (2.9%) had failed treatment. The proportion of male patients was relatively higher (55.2%), within the age group of 21–40 years (47.3%) and lived in rural areas (66.8%). The multivariate analysis revealed that unsuccessful outcomes had a statistically significant association with being male (adjusted odds ratio, AOR: 1.92, 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.10–3.36), being in an age group above 60 years (AOR: 3.34, 95% CI: 1.09–10.1), suffering from any comorbidity (AOR: 2.69, 95% CI: 1.35–5.38), and the history of use of second-line drugs (AOR; 3.51, 95% CI 1.35–9.12). In conclusion, treatment outcomes among DR TB patients at the study site were poor and did not achieve the treatment success target (≥75%) set by the World Health Organization.
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Khan FU, Khan A, Shah S, Hayat K, Usman A, Khan FU, Khan Z, Karataş Y, Ahmad T, Chang J, Malik UR, Khan A, Shukar S, Kadirhaz M, Fang Y. Exploring Undergraduate Pharmacy Students Perspectives Towards Antibiotics Use, Antibiotic Resistance, and Antibiotic Stewardship Programs Along With the Pharmacy Teachers' Perspectives: A Mixed-Methods Study From Pakistan. Front Pharmacol 2021; 12:754000. [PMID: 34819859 PMCID: PMC8606649 DOI: 10.3389/fphar.2021.754000] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Accepted: 10/13/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Antibiotic resistance (ABR) is one of the major issues around the globe. Timely education and awareness of pharmacy students regarding the appropriate use of antibiotics, ABR, and antimicrobial stewardships are required. Methods: The present study was first conducted in 12 (public and private sector) universities among undergraduate pharmacy students (UGPS) (n = 414) irrespective of their study year through a validated questionnaire, and the insights of pharmacy teachers were taken through in-depth semi-structured interviews in the second phase. For the quantitative data, different statistical methods were used, and data were presented in tabulated form, whereas inductive thematic interpretation was used to categorize themes and derive conclusions from qualitative evidence. Results: The majority of the students were males (n = 223, 54%) with the mean age group 19–23 years, and 20 faculty members were interviewed with a mean duration of 15 min. Students have good knowledge about antibiotics use and the majority purchased antibiotics through prescription (n = 277, 66.9%) during the last month and strongly agreed to stop unnecessary household storage (n = 183 44.2%). Most of the students have heard the terminologies related to antimicrobial resistance through social media while unaware (n = 104, 25.1%) of a Pakistan national action plan against AMR (antimicrobial resistance). Overall, respondents have a somewhat good understanding of the ABR. Regular use of antibiotics without consultation of a physician can lead to ABR and some wrong answers were observed (162, 39.1%; p > 0.05). The majority of the students (n = 198, 47.8%) and teachers believe that the current pharmacy syllabus must be swiftly updated with the new subjects related to ABR and AMS (antimicrobial stewardship) in Pakistan. The UGPS have emphasized (n = 220, 53.1%; Median = 1, IQR = 2) establishing a link between academia and hospitals. The ABR issue has been highlighted by pharmacy faculty members, who have urged students to take practical efforts toward ABR and AMS knowledge. Conclusion: The UGPS knowledge related to ABR and AMS must be updated. Students at the undergraduate level must get training in order to encourage the sensible use of antibiotics. Courses on ABR and AMS should be included in present pharmacy curricula.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faiz Ullah Khan
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
| | - Amjad Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Shahid Shah
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Government College University, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Khezar Hayat
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China.,Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Abubakar Usman
- Discipline of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, George Town, Malaysia
| | - Farman Ullah Khan
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
| | - Zakir Khan
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Health Sciences, Çukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Yusuf Karataş
- Department of Pharmacology, Institute of Health Sciences, Çukurova University, Adana, Turkey
| | - Tawseef Ahmad
- Department of Pharmacy, COMSATS University Islamabad, Abbottabad, Pakistan
| | - Jie Chang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
| | - Usman Rashid Malik
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
| | - Asad Khan
- Department of Pharmacy, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Sundus Shukar
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
| | - Muhtar Kadirhaz
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
| | - Yu Fang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an, China.,Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi'an, China.,Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Western China Science and Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi'an, China
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19
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Khan FU, Fang Y. Effectiveness of Pharmacist-Led Brief Educational Intervention for Adherence to the Antibiotics for Lower Respiratory Tract Infections (EATSA) in Post-Conflict Rural Areas of Pakistan: Study Protocol for a Randomized Controlled Trial. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10101147. [PMID: 34680728 PMCID: PMC8532944 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10101147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2021] [Revised: 09/10/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 12/02/2022] Open
Abstract
Globally, lower respiratory infections (LRTIs) are one of the most common infectious diseases whichaffect majority of the population and as a result of inappropriate antibiotics practices lead to antibiotic resistance (AR). An individual randomized control trial will be conducted in the post-conflict areas of Swat, Pakistan, through a random sampling method. Patients aged > 18 years will be recruited from five community pharmacies and assigned to equally sized groups to receive either pharmacist-led education interventions or usual care with no intervention. A total of 400 (control = 200, study = 200) patients will be included, with prescriptions comprised of antibiotics for LRTIs. The outcomes measured in both groups will be a combination of treatment cure rate and adherence, which will be assessed using the Morisky Medication Adherence Scale and pill count. The trial comprises pharmacist-led educational interventions to improve treatment outcomes for patients with LRTIs. This study might establish the groundwork for pharmaceutical care of LRTIs patients with antibacterial therapy and the future delivery of a care strategy for the improvement of LRTIs treatment outcomes in post-conflict, remote areas of the third world and LMICs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Faiz Ullah Khan
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China;
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China
- Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi’an 710061, China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Western China Science & Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi’an 710061, China
| | - Yu Fang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China;
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an 710061, China
- Shaanxi Center for Health Reform and Development Research, Xi’an 710061, China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, Western China Science & Technology Innovation Harbor, Xi’an 710061, China
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +86-185-9197-0591; Fax: +86-29-8265-5424
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