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Chaudhary V, Kumari S, Khurana N, Azharuddin M, Singh AP, Devi V, Dhir D, Pal B. Prevalence of self-medication practices among pregnant women in India: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Pharmacoepidemiol Drug Saf 2024; 33:e5791. [PMID: 38565527 DOI: 10.1002/pds.5791] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 03/25/2024] [Indexed: 04/04/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-medication practice among pregnant women is a global concern. However, its understanding in the Indian context is limited due to a lack of comprehensive studies. PURPOSE This study aimed to comprehensively assess the prevalence of self-medication, the medications used for self-medication, diseases/conditions associated with self-medication, and the reasons for self-medication among Indian pregnant women. METHODS This study was carried out following the guidelines outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA). A thorough search was done in PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar to find articles that were published up until May 2023. Inclusion criteria comprised observational studies reporting self-medication prevalence among pregnant women in India. Data were extracted using a standardized sheet, and a random-effects model was applied to determine the overall prevalence of self-medication using R software. The I2 statistic was employed to assess the heterogeneity among the studies. RESULTS This study analyzed eight studies with a collective sample size of 2208 pregnant women. The pooled prevalence of self-medication among pregnant Indian women was 19.3% (95% CI: 7.5%-41.3%; I2 = 99%; p < 0.01). Common self-treated conditions were cold, cough, fever, headache, and stomach disorders. Antipyretics, analgesics, antihistamines, and antacids were frequently used for self-medication. The perception of mild ailment, immediate alleviation, convenience, time savings, and advice from family, friends, or the media were all reasons for self-medication. Local pharmacies were the most usual source for obtaining drugs, and pharmacists, family, friends, and past prescriptions were common sources of medicine information. CONCLUSIONS A low yet substantial number of pregnant women in India are engaged in self-medication practices. Appropriate strategies need to be planned to reduce self-medication practices to attain sustainable developmental goals for maternal health in India.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vaibhav Chaudhary
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Sweta Kumari
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Navneet Khurana
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Mohammad Azharuddin
- Division of Pharmacology, Department of Pharmaceutical Medicine, School of Pharmaceutical Education and Research, Jamia Hamdard, New Delhi, India
| | - Aditya Pratap Singh
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Varsha Devi
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Deepali Dhir
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
| | - Biplab Pal
- School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara, Punjab, India
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Pop IA, Gielens E, Kottmann H, Achterberg P. Exploring the discourses around microdosing psychedelics within the r/microdosing online community. Soc Sci Med 2024; 347:116702. [PMID: 38520826 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2024.116702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2023] [Revised: 02/13/2024] [Accepted: 02/15/2024] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
In the present contribution, we examine the practice of microdosing psychedelics (microdosing) through textual analysis of the content produced by a dedicated online community, the r/microdosing subreddit. We collected a comprehensive dataset of publicly available submissions from this community and used structural topic modelling to identify and analyse the prevalent topics within the discussions. Through our analysis, we identified 16 distinct topics that mapped into clinical, human enhancement, as well as self-medication narratives. Notably, we found that the majority of discussions revolved around "how to" topics, supporting our argument that such online communities serve as essential information hubs, facilitating the dissemination of practical knowledge related to microdosing practices among the general population. The identified impact of the Covid-19 pandemic on the prevalence of discussion topics suggests that individuals within the online community may perceive microdosing primarily as a means of self-medication during times of heightened stress and uncertainty. Our findings contribute to the field of health sociology and psychedelic research by shedding light on the sociocultural factors influencing healthcare practices, including the role of online communities in facilitating processes of self-medicalization and self-medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ioana Andreea Pop
- Tilburg University, Sociology Department, PO BOX 90153, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands.
| | - Erwin Gielens
- Tilburg University, Sociology Department, PO BOX 90153, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands.
| | - Hannah Kottmann
- Tilburg University, Sociology Department, PO BOX 90153, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands.
| | - Peter Achterberg
- Tilburg University, Sociology Department, PO BOX 90153, 5000 LE, Tilburg, the Netherlands.
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Darden ME, Papageorge NW. Rational self-medication. Econ Hum Biol 2024; 53:101350. [PMID: 38335911 DOI: 10.1016/j.ehb.2024.101350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 01/04/2024] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
We develop a model of rational self-medication in which individuals use potentially dangerous or addictive substances (e.g., alcohol) to manage symptoms of illness (e.g., depression) outside of formal medical care. A model implication is that the emergence of better treatments reduces incentives to self-medicate. To investigate, we use forty years of longitudinal data from the Framingham Heart Study and leverage the exogenous introduction of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). We demonstrate an economically meaningful reduction in alcohol consumption when SSRIs became available. Our findings illustrate how the effects of medical innovation operate, in part, through changes in behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michael E Darden
- Johns Hopkins University, United States of America; NBER, United States of America.
| | - Nicholas W Papageorge
- Johns Hopkins University, United States of America; NBER, United States of America; IZA, Germany
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Alexander V, Rathinam J J, George JT, Paul JS. Letter to the editor regarding the case report: unregulated medication use and complications: is self-medication a common problem with anti-tuberculous therapy (ATT)? Role for patient education. BMC Infect Dis 2024; 24:283. [PMID: 38438949 PMCID: PMC10913622 DOI: 10.1186/s12879-024-09170-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Accepted: 02/23/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Vijay Alexander
- Department of Hepatology, Christian Medical College, 632002, Vellore, India.
| | - Jasper Rathinam J
- Division of Critical Care, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - John Titus George
- Department of Gastroenterology, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
| | - Jackwin Sam Paul
- Department of Community Health, Christian Medical College, Vellore, India
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Ali HT, Barakat M, Abdelhalim AR, Al-Kurd IN, Muhammad MKE, Sharkawy MM, Elbahnasawy M, Amer SA. Unravelling the dilemma of self-medication in Egypt: a cross-sectional survey on knowledge, attitude, and practice of the general Egyptian population. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:652. [PMID: 38429721 PMCID: PMC10905903 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-17913-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2023] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 03/03/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-medication (SM) is a rising public health issue, especially in developing countries. It can be associated with various problems such as the delayed seeking of medical advice, drug interactions, and serious events such as antimicrobial drug resistance. We aimed to evaluate the Egyptian general population's knowledge, attitudes, and practices of SM. METHODS We employed a cross-sectional design between February 7th and March 8th, 2023 using a self-administered questionnaire available in Arabic. The questionnaire was developed based on previous studies and included four domains: sociodemographic data, knowledge, attitude, and practice of SM. We utilized both online (Google Forms) and paper surveys, utilizing convenience and snowball sampling methods. Data were analyzed using R Statistical Software (v4.1.3; R Core Team 2022). RESULTS 1630 Egyptian individuals (838 females and 792 males) from the seven provinces were enrolled, with a median age of 25 years (IQR: 22-40). Around 55.97% and 48.28% of the participants had good knowledge and favorable attitudes regarding SM respectively, while 62.8% had practiced SM in the previous three months. The most frequently used medications were painkillers (60.74%) followed by antibiotics (32.13%) and antipyretics (28.61%). The pharmacist's recommendation was the source of SM for 53.61% while 31.53% used old medications at home. Most participants (59.08%) practiced SM because they thought they had simple or minor symptoms. The multivariate regression analysis revealed that females had significantly higher knowledge of SM than males (aOR: 2.10; 95%CI: 1.64-2.71; p-value < 0.001), with no significant differences in practice (aOR: 1.24; 95%CI: 0.99 - 1.56; p-value = 0.065). Individuals working or studying in the medical field were significantly more knowledgeable about SM (aOR: 4.30; 95%CI: 3.27-5.69; p-value < 0.001) and more likely to practice SM (aOR: 1.65; 95%CI: 1.26-2.17; p-value < 0.001). The odds of SM decreased with favorable attitudes (aOR: 0.44; 95%CI: 0.36-0.55; p-value < 0.001) while surprisingly, knowledge level was not significantly contributing to SM practice (aOR: 1.15; 95%CI: 0.90-1.48; p-value = 0.268). CONCLUSIONS SM is prevalent in Egypt, highlighting the importance of raising awareness and encouraging physician consultation as a priority. Governments, healthcare organizations, and educational institutions need to collaborate to provide the necessary support and resources.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mostafa Barakat
- Qena Faculty of Medicine, South Valley University, Qena, 83621, Egypt
| | | | | | | | | | - Mohamed Elbahnasawy
- Emergency Medicine and Traumatology Department, Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta, Egypt
| | - Samar Ahmed Amer
- Department of Public Health and Community Medicine, Family Medicine, Membership at Royal College of General Practice [INT], Ministry Of Health (MOH) Saudi Arabia, Zagazig University, EgyptLondon, UK
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Bouqoufi A, Laila L, Boujraf S, Hadj FAE, Razine R, Abouqal R, Khabbal Y. Prevalence and associated factors of self-medication in worldwide pregnant women: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:308. [PMID: 38279083 PMCID: PMC10821266 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-023-17195-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/28/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-medication during pregnancy is of great interest. The use of drugs during pregnancy requires a careful reflection on the benefits to the mother and the risks to the fetus. Selecting a drug or drugs for treating pregnant women can be difficult for clinicians owing to the various pharmacokinetic and physiological changes encountered during pregnancy. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to estimate the pooled prevalence of self-medication and associated factors among women during pregnancy. METHODS Searches were carried out at PubMed, Science Direct, Web of Science, and Google Scholar. The quality of the studies and the risk of bias were analyzed using the Joanna Briggs Critical Appraisal Checklist for Analytical Cross-Sectional Studies instrument. The extracted data were tabulated and analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively through meta-analysis. RESULTS The overall prevalence of self-medication among pregnant women was 44.50% (95% CI: 38.92-50.23). Subgroup analyses showed differences in self-medication prevalence influenced by region, county income, and study design. The Heterogeneity, assessed by the statistical test I2 varied from 96 to 99% and was statistically significant. The result of this funnel plot showed that the funnel plot was symmetry with p-value = 0.36, and there is no publication bias. CONCLUSION The results obtained from this study showed that the prevalence of self-medication among pregnant women is relatively high. This requires effective measures and interventions to reduce self-medication. TRIAL REGISTRATION ID = CRD42022312333 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Afaf Bouqoufi
- Laboratory of Health and Science, Therapeutic Innovation, Translational Research, and Epidemiology. Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Lahlou Laila
- Laboratory of Health and Science, Therapeutic Innovation, Translational Research, and Epidemiology. Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Said Boujraf
- Clinical Neurosciences Laboratory, Faculty of Medicine, Sidi Mohamed Ben Abdellah University, Fez, Morocco.
| | - Fatima Ait El Hadj
- Laboratory of Health and Science, Therapeutic Innovation, Translational Research, and Epidemiology. Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
| | - Rachid Razine
- Laboraoty of Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Redouane Abouqal
- Laboraoty of Epidemiology and Clinical Research, Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, University Mohamed V, Rabat, Morocco
| | - Youssef Khabbal
- Laboratory of Health and Science, Therapeutic Innovation, Translational Research, and Epidemiology. Faculty of Medicine and Pharmacy, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir, Morocco
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Marasini S, Sharma S, Joshi A, Kunwar S, Mahato RK, Shrestha A, Karmacharya B. Exploring knowledge, perceptions, and practices of antimicrobials, and their resistance among medicine dispensers and community members in Kavrepalanchok District of Nepal. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0297282. [PMID: 38241275 PMCID: PMC10798439 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0297282] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Accepted: 01/02/2024] [Indexed: 01/21/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Inappropriate use of antimicrobials is a global public health issue, particularly in developing countries, including Nepal, where over-the-counter sales and self-medication of antimicrobials are common. OBJECTIVES To explore knowledge, perceptions, and practices of antimicrobials and their resistance among medicine dispensers and community members in Nepal. METHODS The study was conducted in three rural and five urban municipalities of the Kavrepalanchok district from May 2021 to August 2021. Data were collected using two qualitative approaches: In-Depth Interviews (IDIs) and Focus Group Discussions (FGDs). Data were analyzed using thematic analysis that combined deductive and inductive approaches to identify codes under pre-specified themes. RESULTS A total of 16 In-depth interviews with medicine dispensers and 3 focus group discussions with community members were conducted. Knowledge regarding antimicrobial resistance varied among dispensers. Those with a prior educational background in pharmacy often had good knowledge about the causes and consequences of antimicrobial resistance. Meanwhile, consumers were less aware of antimicrobial resistance. Community members perceived antimicrobials as effective medicines but not long-term solution for treating diseases. They reported that dispensing without a prescription was common and that both consumers and dispensers were responsible for the inappropriate use of antimicrobials. On the contrary, several dispensers said that self-medication was common among the consumers, especially among more educated groups. The medicine dispensers and consumers expressed concerns about the weak enforcement of policies regarding pharmacy drug use and dispensing practices. CONCLUSION Promoting and strengthening the appropriate use of antimicrobials among medicine dispensers and community members is crucial. Bold policies and collective implementation of regulations could help combat antimicrobial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sabina Marasini
- Department of Public Health, Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, Dhulikhel, Nepal
| | - Sudim Sharma
- Faculty of Public Health, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Anjali Joshi
- Department of Public Health, Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, Dhulikhel, Nepal
| | - Surakshya Kunwar
- Department of Public Health, Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, Dhulikhel, Nepal
| | - Roshan Kumar Mahato
- Department of Public Health, Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, Dhulikhel, Nepal
| | - Archana Shrestha
- Department of Public Health, Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, Dhulikhel, Nepal
- Department of Chronic Disease Epidemiology, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut, United States of America
- Institute for Implementation Science and Health, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | - Biraj Karmacharya
- Department of Public Health, Kathmandu University School of Medical Sciences, Dhulikhel, Nepal
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Tachi T, Noguchi Y, Teramachi H. Development of a Remote Health Support Program by Pharmacists and Elucidation of Its Effectiveness: A Randomized Controlled Study. Biol Pharm Bull 2024; 47:771-784. [PMID: 38583948 DOI: 10.1248/bpb.b23-00566] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
No progress has been made in using remote communication tools for less urgent but equally important health support services, such as preventive medicine and health education. In this study, we developed a remote health support program by pharmacists for community residents and conducted a randomized controlled study on its effectiveness in proper self-medication through pharmacists. People over the age of 20 years who lived in the vicinity of Gifu City, Japan were eligible to participate in this study. Participants were recruited using posters and brochures. This program comprised a lecture, based on the health belief model and behavioral economics, and access to remote health support. The participants were randomly assigned to two groups: the medicine/health class only (control) and the medicine/health class along with the program (intervention) groups. The participants were administered questionnaire surveys immediately before (the first survey) and 2 months after (the second survey) the medicine/health class, which allowed us to compare the changes in the two groups' behavior regarding performing proper self-medication through pharmacists. The percentage of individuals who started consulting pharmacists about self-medication in the intervention group (63.9%, 23/36) was significantly higher than that in the control group (15.2%, 5/33; p < 0.001). The percentage of individuals who started recording information about their self-medication in their medication notebooks in the intervention group (16.7%, 6/36) was significantly higher than that in the control group (0%, 0/33; p = 0.026). We clarified the effectiveness of this program for behavioral changes toward proper self-medication using support from pharmacists.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tomoya Tachi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Graduate School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Nagoya City University
- Laboratory of Clinical Pharmacy, Gifu Pharmaceutical University
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Nakato G, Adongo PR, Iramiot JS, Epuitai J. Practices and drivers of self-medication with antibiotics among undergraduate medical students in Eastern Uganda: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0293685. [PMID: 38127886 PMCID: PMC10734914 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0293685] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/08/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-medication with antibiotics remains one of the major drivers of antimicrobial resistance. Practices of self-medication among nursing and medical students have not been explored in our setting. This study sought to determine the prevalence and factors associated with self-medication with antibiotics among undergraduate university students pursuing health-related courses in Eastern Uganda. A descriptive cross-sectional study design was used. The study was done among undergraduate students who were doing undergraduate programs in Nursing, Anesthesia, and medicine at Busitema University. A self-administered questionnaire was used to collect data from 326 participants. Descriptive statistics were used in data analysis. The prevalence of self-medication with antibiotics was 93.8% (n = 300) of which 80% were either currently using self-medication or had self-medicated in the past six months. The common reasons for self-medication were the perception that it was a minor illness (55%), previous use of antibiotic (52%), a perception that they were health workers (50%), and the notion that they knew the right antibiotic for their condition (44%). Metronidazole (64%) and amoxicillin (65%) were the most commonly used antibiotics. Self-medication was most common for conditions such as peptic ulcer, diarrhea, and wound infections. Inappropriate drug use was common among participants on self-medication which occurred in the form of multiple use of antibiotics (64.4%, n = 194) and a tendency to switch to other antibiotics (58.5%) mostly because the former antibiotic was perceived not to be an effective treatment. The prevalence of self-medication with antibiotics was high among medical students. Prior use of the antibiotic and having a minor illness were the most common drivers of self-medication. Public health strategies should address the high misuse of antibiotics among medical students to negate the likely consequence of antimicrobial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gloria Nakato
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing, Busitema University, Mbale, Uganda
| | - Pamella R. Adongo
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing, Busitema University, Mbale, Uganda
| | - Jacob Stanley Iramiot
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Busitema University, Mbale, Uganda
| | - Joshua Epuitai
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Department of Nursing, Busitema University, Mbale, Uganda
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Affiliation(s)
- Asma Marzouk
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Yasminette Ben Arous Hospital, Ben Arous, Tunisia.
- University El Manar, Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia.
| | - Mariem Lajili
- University El Manar, Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
- Functional Respiratory Explorations and Center for Sleep Pathologies in Children, Robert Debré, Paris, France
| | - Ilyes Ben Yahya
- University El Manar, Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
| | - Asma Bouaziz
- Department of Pediatrics and Neonatology, Yasminette Ben Arous Hospital, Ben Arous, Tunisia
- University El Manar, Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, Tunis, Tunisia
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Alexa JM, Bertsche T. An online cross-sectional survey of community pharmacists to assess information needs for evidence-based self-medication counselling. Int J Clin Pharm 2023; 45:1452-1463. [PMID: 37532842 PMCID: PMC10682211 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-023-01624-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/12/2023] [Accepted: 07/08/2023] [Indexed: 08/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Community pharmacists play an important role in healthcare. They are frequently visited by patients to receive advice on self-medication products. Little research has been conducted to investigate pharmacists' information needs for evidence-based self-medication counselling. AIM To assess community pharmacists' information needs in five predefined areas: general and specific individual needs, quality needs, utilisation needs, implication needs, and access needs for evidence based self-medication counselling. METHOD After ethical approval, we conducted an exploratory, semi-quantitative, cross-sectional online survey. Members of three different chambers of pharmacists in Germany were invited to participate anonymously in the survey. They gave informed consent and received no incentive for their participation. Quantitative outcome: Frequency of relevance / importance of items within predefined information needs areas, except for access needs. Qualitative outcome: Open-text responses concerning all information needs. RESULTS We analysed data from a total of 823 participants who completed the survey. General and specific information such as dosage (74.2% [611/823]) and when to refer to a physician (64.6% [532/823]) as well as an over-the-counter product's effectiveness according to medical guidelines (71.4% [588/823]) were rated as very important. Participants reported to prefer digital information sources (50.5% [416/823] strongly agreed), especially in the form of an easily accessible database (61.6% [507/823] strongly agreed) that contains regularly updated, manufacturer-independent, critically appraised, concise information. CONCLUSION Community pharmacists expressed distinct information needs for evidence-based self-medication counselling. Further information services on essential evidence-based pharmacy knowledge may be necessary to support implementation.
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Affiliation(s)
- J M Alexa
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
- Drug Safety Center, University Hospital Leipzig and Leipzig University, Bruederstr. 32, 04103, Leipzig, Germany
| | - T Bertsche
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany.
- Drug Safety Center, University Hospital Leipzig and Leipzig University, Bruederstr. 32, 04103, Leipzig, Germany.
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Chinah C, Irons R. A Review on the Health Impact of Self-medication for Malaria on Port Harcourt Residents. West Afr J Med 2023; 40:1118-1130. [PMID: 37906965] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
Self-medication is a widespread public health issue that has continued to grow without ever reaching a level, both in wealthy and underdeveloped countries. Residents of Port Harcourt, Nigeria, have faced danger to their health from malaria, and because they have limited access to healthcare, the majority of them turn to self-medication to treat the disease. The study's goal was to ascertain how well-informed Port Harcourt citizens were of the negative effects of self-medication for malaria on their health. Self-medication was a common practice among the research population. However, their understanding of how self-medication for malaria affects health is not particularly strong. The findings and explanations show that this is reflected in their attitude and behavior regarding self-medicating behaviors. The vast majority of people think they can treat their cases of malaria by using symptoms, prior experiences, and a suitable diagnostic laboratory test to confirm the disease. The two biggest causes of self-medication were low income and a lack of health insurance, while other minor factors included a lack of healthcare facilities, high medicine prices, an inability to pay for medical bills, being near a hospital, and having a negative attitude towards physicians. The findings show that self-medication is continuing to rise and that it will continue to have an influence on malaria prevention and treatment in the study region unless the government and other people in positions of authority do something about it.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Chinah
- Department of Health and Wellbeing, University of Sunderland in London, London, UK.
| | - R Irons
- Department of Health and Wellbeing, University of Sunderland in London, London, UK.
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Nguyen CT, Nguyen HT, Boyer L, Auquier P, Fond G, Do KN, Dang AK, Do HP, Latkin CA, Ho RCM, Ho CSH. Prevalence and impacts of self-medication in a disadvantaged setting: the importance of multi-dimensional health interventions. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1176730. [PMID: 37575118 PMCID: PMC10412933 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1176730] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2023] [Indexed: 08/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Self-medication is recognized as an effective form of treatment and is increasingly encouraged to treat minor illnesses. However, misuse of self-medication leaves devastating impacts on human health and causes antimicrobial resistance. Using medication without a prescription among farmers could cause more severe effects on their health than non-farm workers since they suffer from several occupational hazards such as excessive exposure to pesticides. Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted in 197 residents living in Moc Chau from August to September. A structured questionnaire and face-to-face were used to collecting data. The multivariate logistic model was applied to indicate associated factors with the self-medication. Results The prevalence of self-medication among farmers was 67%. Pain relievers (66.7%) and antibiotics (32.5%) were the types of medicines that were the most commonly purchased and used without a medical prescription. Ethnics and health status also significantly affected the self-medication practice as well as the purchase and use of antibiotics. The distance to travel to a medical center and the dangerous or difficult travel, participants with arthritis or inpatient treatment had significantly associated with buying and using the medicine and antibiotics without the medical prescription of farmers. Conclusion Our research highlights a considerably high prevalence of self-medication among farmers residing in the mountainous area of Vietnam. Individual factors such as ethnics, health status, distance to health centers, and dangerous or difficult travel were found to be related to the SM practice as well as the purchase and use of antibiotics. From that, the current study suggests interventions. For instance, official guidelines are needed to raise awareness and minimize the disadvantages of self-medication; and digital health technologies should be applied to reduce the gap in healthcare service between mountainous and other areas of Vietnam.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cuong Tat Nguyen
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
- Faculty of Medicine, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Hien Thu Nguyen
- Institute for Global Health Innovations, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
- Faculty of Medicine, Duy Tan University, Da Nang, Vietnam
| | - Laurent Boyer
- EA 3279, CEReSS, Research Centre on Health Services and Quality of Life, Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Pascal Auquier
- EA 3279, CEReSS, Research Centre on Health Services and Quality of Life, Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Guillaume Fond
- EA 3279, CEReSS, Research Centre on Health Services and Quality of Life, Aix Marseille University, Marseille, France
| | - Khanh Nam Do
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Anh Kim Dang
- Institute for Preventive Medicine and Public Health, Hanoi Medical University, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Huyen Phuc Do
- Institute of Health Economics and Technology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Carl A. Latkin
- Bloomberg School of Public Health, Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Roger C. M. Ho
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
- Institute for Health Innovation and Technology (iHealthtech), National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
| | - Cyrus S. H. Ho
- Department of Psychological Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore, Singapore, Singapore
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Ondocsin J, Holm N, Mars SG, Ciccarone D. The motives and methods of methamphetamine and 'heroin' co-use in West Virginia. Harm Reduct J 2023; 20:88. [PMID: 37438812 PMCID: PMC10339587 DOI: 10.1186/s12954-023-00816-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/16/2023] [Accepted: 06/22/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Opioid and methamphetamine co-use is increasing across the USA with overdoses involving these drugs also rising. West Virginia (WV) has led the US in opioid overdose death rates since at least 2013 and rising co-use of methamphetamine with opioids has played a greater role in deaths over the last 5 years. METHODS This study used rapid ethnography to examine methods and motivations behind opioids and methamphetamine co-use from the viewpoint of their consumers. Participants (n = 30) were people who injected heroin/fentanyl also using methamphetamine who participated in semi-structured interviews. RESULTS We found multiple methods of co-using opioids and methamphetamine, whether alternately or simultaneously and in varying order. Most prioritized opioids, with motives for using methamphetamine forming three thematic categories: 'intrinsic use', encompassing both inherent pleasure of combined use greater than using both drugs separately or for self-medication of particular conditions; 'opioid assisting use' in which methamphetamine helped people manage their existing heroin/fentanyl use; and 'reluctant or indifferent use' for social participation, reflecting methamphetamine's low cost and easy availability. CONCLUSIONS Methamphetamine serves multiple functions among people using opioids in WV. Beliefs persist that methamphetamine can play a role in preventing and reversing opioid overdose, including some arguments for sequential use being protective of overdose. 'Reluctant' uptake attests to methamphetamine's social use and the influence of supply. The impact on overdose risk of the many varied co-use patterns needs further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeff Ondocsin
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, 500 Parnassus Avenue, MU3E, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA.
| | - Nicole Holm
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, 500 Parnassus Avenue, MU3E, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Sarah G Mars
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, 500 Parnassus Avenue, MU3E, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
| | - Daniel Ciccarone
- Department of Family and Community Medicine, University of California, 500 Parnassus Avenue, MU3E, San Francisco, CA, 94143, USA
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Mboni HM, Tshikongo AK, Chirubagula VB, Shakalenga CM, Kanyegere AM, Rugema BB, Mushobekwa SS, Akiba DB, Rusati NM. [Evaluation of self-medication practices and their characteristics among Uvira in Democratic Republic of Congo students]. Pan Afr Med J 2023; 45:53. [PMID: 37637404 PMCID: PMC10460111 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2023.45.53.39690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction self-medication poses a threat to public health. The purpose of this study was to evaluate self-medication practices among Uvira students in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Methods we conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study based on an indirect interview of 700 students, using a self-administered survey questionnaire. Data were processed using XLSTAT. Results according to the survey conducted on these 700 students, the prevalence of self-medication was 99.3% (n=695), of which 42.3% (n=294) started during adolescence. Of the total respondents, 57.4% (n=399) said they resorted to self-medication every time they fell ill and were short of money (n=471, 67.7%) for a consultation. The most commonly cited pathology encountered during this practice was malaria (n=212, 30.5%). Of all drugs used, paracetamol was in the first place (n=106, 15.3%) while the tablet was the form most used by these students (n=598, 86%). In terms of the drug combination, Fansidar-Coartem (n=106, 17.2%) was the most common; the dosage was age-dependent in 65.6% (n=456) of cases. This study also showed that 37.4% (n=695) of the students interviewed used phytotherapy, mainly to treat malaria (n=124, 47.3%). Conclusion among Uvira students, self-medication is extremely used, especially against malaria. Efforts must be made by healthcare personnel in collaboration with policymakers to raise awareness about the rational use of medications, in order to better control and potentially eradicate this practice that is harmful to health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Manya Mboni
- Département de Pharmacologie, Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques, Université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, République Démocratique du Congo
- Filière des Techniques Pharmaceutiques, Institut Supérieur des Techniques Médicales d´Uvira, Uvira, République Démocratique du Congo
| | - Arsène Kabamba Tshikongo
- Département de Biologie Clinique, Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques, Université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, République Démocratique Congo
| | - Valentin Bashige Chirubagula
- Département de Pharmacologie, Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques, Université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, République Démocratique du Congo
| | - Cedrick Mutombo Shakalenga
- Département de Pharmacologie, Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques, Université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, République Démocratique du Congo
| | - Arsène Mutula Kanyegere
- Filière des Techniques Pharmaceutiques, Institut Supérieur des Techniques Médicales d´Uvira, Uvira, République Démocratique du Congo
| | - Bontemps Byakujoga Rugema
- Filière des Sciences Infirmières, Institut Supérieur des Techniques Médicales d´Uvira, Uvira, République Démocratique du Congo
| | - Saili Stay Mushobekwa
- Filière des Sciences Infirmières, Institut Supérieur des Techniques Médicales d´Uvira, Uvira, République Démocratique du Congo
| | - Derrick Bushobole Akiba
- Filière de Santé Publique, Institut Supérieur des Techniques Médicales d´Uvira, Uvira, République Démocratique du Congo
| | - Nicolas Mihuhi Rusati
- Filière de Santé Publique, Institut Supérieur des Techniques Médicales d´Uvira, Uvira, République Démocratique du Congo
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Opoku R, Dwumfour-Asare B, Agrey-Bluwey L, Appiah NE, Ackah M, Acquah F, Asenso PF, Issaka AA. Prevalence of self-medication in Ghana: a systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ Open 2023; 13:e064627. [PMID: 36963791 PMCID: PMC10439347 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-064627] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2022] [Accepted: 03/14/2023] [Indexed: 03/26/2023] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study estimates the prevalence of self-medication and provides an understanding of the reasons for self-medication in Ghana through the synthesis of relevant literature. METHODS A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Science Direct and African Journals Online to identify observational studies published from inception to March 2022. Google scholar and institutional websites were searched for grey literature. We included studies reporting primary data on the prevalence and/or reasons for self-medication in Ghana. Random-effects meta-analysis was used to estimate the prevalence of self-medication. Subgroup analysis was performed with the study population (pregnant women, patients and students), geopolitical zone (coastal, middle and northern) and study setting (rural and urban). Using inductive thematic analysis, reasons for self-medication were classified and tallied under key themes. RESULTS Thirty studies involving 9271 participants were included in this review. The pooled prevalence of self-medication in Ghana was 53.7% (95% CI 46.2% to 61.0%; I²=98.51%, p<0.001). Prevalence of self-medication was highest among pregnant women (65.5%; 95% CI 58.1% to 72.5%; I2=88%), in the middle belt of the country (62.1%; 95% CI 40.9% to 82.0%; I²=98%; p<0.001) and in rural settings (61.2%; 95% CI 36.5% to 84.5%; I²=98%; p<0.001). The most cited reasons for self-medication included long waiting time at health facilities (73.3%), previous use of drugs (66.7%) and the perceived unseriousness of diseases (53.3%). CONCLUSION This study has revealed that self-medication is still an unresolved public health challenge in Ghana, with a high prevalence estimate. Self-medication is influenced by inconveniences associated with accessing healthcare coupled with poor health seeking behaviours. There is the need for improved access to quality healthcare and the promotion of appropriate health-seeking behaviours.
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Affiliation(s)
- Richmond Opoku
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
| | - Bismark Dwumfour-Asare
- Department of Environmental Health & Sanitation Education, Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development, Mampong, Ashanti, Ghana
| | - Lawrencia Agrey-Bluwey
- Department of Health Administration & Education, University of Education Winneba Faculty of Science Education, Winneba, Central, Ghana
| | - Nana Esi Appiah
- School of Medicine, Medical Sciences and Nutrition, University of Aberdeen, Aberdeen, UK
- Maxillofacial Surgery Unit, Korle Bu Teaching Hospital, Accra, Greater Accra, Ghana
| | - Michael Ackah
- Department of Public Health Education, Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development, Mampong, Ashanti, Ghana
| | - Francis Acquah
- Department of Health Administration & Education, University of Education Winneba Faculty of Science Education, Winneba, Central, Ghana
| | - Priscilla Fordjour Asenso
- Department of Public Health Education, Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development, Mampong, Ashanti, Ghana
| | - Abdul-Aziz Issaka
- Department of Public Health Education, Akenten Appiah-Menka University of Skills Training and Entrepreneurial Development, Mampong, Ashanti, Ghana
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Mirdad OA, Esheba GE, Mousa AH, Nukaly HY, Alhindi YZ, Hariri NH, Ayoub N, Alsanosi SM. Over-the-Counter Medication Use among Parents in Saudi Arabia. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2023; 20:ijerph20021193. [PMID: 36673949 PMCID: PMC9858867 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph20021193] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2022] [Revised: 01/05/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2023] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Introduction: Self-medication is a growing public health concern worldwide. Studies have shown a gap between best practice and the current practice of using over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Despite being a well-recognised problem in Saudi Arabia, few studies have investigated OTC medication use in Saudi Arabia. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the attitudes and knowledge of parents regarding OTC medication use in the Jeddah region, Saudi Arabia. Method: A cross-sectional study was carried out via an electronic questionnaire sent randomly to parents over four months, from 1 January to 30 April 2022. The participants’ characteristics and categorical variables were represented descriptively by frequency and percentage. A Chi-square test was used to test the relationship between the variables. Results: In total, 211 questionnaires were included in this study. Females represented 54.5% of the participants included in the study. Parents belonging to the 18-to-30-year-old group comprised the highest percentage (37.9%), and most of the parents (72.9%) had received an undergraduate education. Family physicians were the most common source (37.3%) of information about OTC medications, whereas more than half of parents purchased OTC medications from the community pharmacy (58.8%). While almost half of the parents (52.1%) visited a family physician when side effects of OTC medications appeared in their children, only (33.6%) stopped giving their children the OTC medicine. The relationship between the sociodemographic characteristics (including educational level, marital status, and employment status) and OTC drug consumption was significant (p < 0.001). Conclusion: Educational campaigns are needed to guide patients about the proper use of OTC medications. Studies on OTC medication use are lacking in Saudi Arabia in terms of its frequency, reasons for use, type of self-medication, and contributing factors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ola A. Mirdad
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24375, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ghada E. Esheba
- Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24375, Saudi Arabia
- Faculty of Medicine, Tanta University, Tanta 31111, Egypt
| | - Ahmed H. Mousa
- College of Medicine and Surgery, Batterjee Medical College, Jeddah 21442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Houriah Y. Nukaly
- College of Medicine and Surgery, Batterjee Medical College, Jeddah 21442, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yosra Z. Alhindi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24375, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nahla H. Hariri
- Department of Community Medicine and Health Care for Pilgrims, Faculty of Medicine, Umm AlQura University, Makkah 24375, Saudi Arabia
| | - Nahla Ayoub
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24375, Saudi Arabia
| | - Safaa M. Alsanosi
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Medicine, Umm Al-Qura University, Makkah 24375, Saudi Arabia
- Institute of Cardiovascular and Metabolic Health, University of Glasgow, Glasgow G12 8QQ, UK
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Lasota D, Mirowska-Guzel D, Goniewicz M. The Over-the-Counter Medicines Market in Poland. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:17022. [PMID: 36554903 PMCID: PMC9779608 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192417022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2022] [Revised: 12/10/2022] [Accepted: 12/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
The market of over-the-counter drugs, so-called OTC drugs, is a dynamically developing market driven primarily by self-medication. Their use does not require consultation with a physician, and the patients themselves decide to take them. The distribution of OTC medications in the pharmaceutical market in Poland is diversified. These drugs could be purchased at a pharmacy but also at a supermarket, gas station, or via the internet. The low involvement of public funds in spending on drugs, a relatively small percentage of pharmacy sales of reimbursable prescription drugs, and the difficult access to physicians or general consent to drug advertising all create ideal conditions for creating demand for these drugs. Among the European countries, Poland also has the largest share of OTC drugs in the entire pharmaceutical market, and the percentage of OTCs (without supplements) in the whole drug market in Poland continues to grow. Unfortunately, the non-pharmacy market for the sale of OTC drugs is not adequately controlled in practice, and Polish legal regulations regarding the sale of medicines outside pharmacies are among the most liberal in the European Union. However, this does not change the general attitude of consumers toward purchasing OTC drugs. In fact, further growth of the OTC drug market is forecast. Self-medication will undoubtedly play an important role in the trends which may shape this market in the coming years.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dorota Lasota
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Dagmara Mirowska-Guzel
- Department of Experimental and Clinical Pharmacology, Medical University of Warsaw, 02-097 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Mariusz Goniewicz
- Department of Emergency Medicine, Medical University of Lublin, 20-081 Lublin, Poland
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Tesfay H, Fiseha K, Abera S, Mihreteab Siele S, Tesfamariam EH, Abdu N. Self-medication with ophthalmic drugs and its associated factors among ophthalmic patients attending three hospitals in Asmara, Eritrea: a cross-sectional study. BMJ Open 2022; 12:e063147. [PMID: 36414303 PMCID: PMC9685241 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2022-063147] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the prevalence and practice of self-medication and its associated factors among ophthalmic patients. DESIGN An analytical cross-sectional study design was employed. SETTING Three hospitals inAsmara, Eritrea. PARTICIPANTS Samples of ophthalmic outpatients aged >18 years who visited the three hospitals in Asmara, Eritrea. Systematic random sampling was used to select the study participants. DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS Data were collected from September 2021 to October 2021 in a face-to-face interview using a structured questionnaire. The collected data were double entered and analysed using CSPro (V.7.2) and SPSS (V.26), respectively. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression were performed. P values less than 0.05 were considered as significant. PRIMARY AND SECONDARY OUTCOME MEASURES Main outcome variable was practice of self-medication with ophthalmic drugs (SMOD). Secondary outcome measure was the determinants of self-medication practice. RESULTS A total of 351 participants were recruited with a response rate of 97.7%. The prevalence of SMOD was found to be 14.9% (95% CI (11.1% to 18.7%)). The most frequently preferred ophthalmic drug groups were antibiotics (63.6%), followed by corticosteroids (22.7%). The main reasons for SMOD were easy accessibility (52.9%) and previous familiarity of the eye medication (27.5%). Eye redness (n=19/51) and foreign body sensation (n=18/51) were the most self-recognised complaints that required self-medication. The most common source of information for SMOD was pharmacy professionals (41.1%). Only attitude score (Crude odds ratio (COR)= 1.25, 95% CI 1.12, 1.39) was significantly associated with the practice of SMOD at bivariate logistic regression. CONCLUSION Though the majority of respondents considered self-medication with ophthalmic drugs as inappropriate, a significant number of them practising it. This mandates relevant bodies to take stricter measures to protect the public from the misuse of eye medications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hayleab Tesfay
- Department of Medical Sciences, Pharmacy Unit, Orotta College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Asmara, Eritrea
| | - Kibrom Fiseha
- Department of Medical Sciences, Pharmacy Unit, Orotta College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Asmara, Eritrea
| | - Simon Abera
- Department of Medical Sciences, Pharmacy Unit, Orotta College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Asmara, Eritrea
| | - Senai Mihreteab Siele
- Department of Medical Sciences, Pharmacy Unit, Orotta College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Asmara, Eritrea
| | - Eyasu H Tesfamariam
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Department of Statistics, College of Sciences, Mai-Nefhi, Eritrea
| | - Nuru Abdu
- Pharmacy, Adi-Tekelezan Community Hospital, Adi-Tekelezan, Eritrea
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Rusu RN, Ababei DC, Bild W, Stoian I, Macadan I, Stanciu GD, Ciobica A, Bild V. Self-Medication in Rural Northeastern Romania: Patients' Attitudes and Habits. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:14949. [PMID: 36429676 PMCID: PMC9690038 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192214949] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2022] [Revised: 11/10/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, many healthcare systems, along with healthcare professionals, have provided services in a patient-centered manner, in which patients are key actors in the care process. Encouraging self-care creates responsible patients, but it must be practiced responsibly. This study aims to analyze the tendency towards self-medication for patients from a rural area in Northeastern Romania. Data were collected using a questionnaire, which consisted of 25 questions, that has been developed by the research team. Student's T test or one-way ANOVA was used, and the reliability of the questionnaire was calculated using Cronbach's alpha coefficient. Fifty-eight patients agreed to participate and were interviewed. The results of the study suggest that respondents practice self-medication, which they resort to when their condition cannot be treated with natural remedies or herbs and when it impairs their ability to do their daily activities. Self-medication could be explained by the lack of self-care services as well as the trust patients have in the specific treatment. Patients prefer asking the pharmacist for drugs instead of visiting a physician, which could be due to higher accessibility and time-efficiency, while also being prone to stock up on certain medications due to limited access to healthcare.
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Affiliation(s)
- Razvan-Nicolae Rusu
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Clinical Pharmacy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Daniela-Carmen Ababei
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Clinical Pharmacy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Walther Bild
- Department of Physiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Center of Biomedical Research of the Romanian Academy, 700506 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ioana Stoian
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Clinical Pharmacy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Ioana Macadan
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Clinical Pharmacy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Gabriela Dumitrita Stanciu
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Andrei Ciobica
- Department of Physiology, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 700115 Iasi, Romania
| | - Veronica Bild
- Department of Pharmacodynamics and Clinical Pharmacy, “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Advanced Research and Development Center for Experimental Medicine (CEMEX), “Grigore T. Popa” University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 16 Universitatii Street, 700115 Iasi, Romania
- Center of Biomedical Research of the Romanian Academy, 700506 Iasi, Romania
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Tavares AI, Ferreira PL, Cavadas V. Factors Contributing to Self-Medication and Consumption of Non-Prescribed Drugs in Portugal. Int J Public Health 2022; 67:1604852. [PMID: 36419733 PMCID: PMC9676243 DOI: 10.3389/ijph.2022.1604852] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Objectives: This work sets out to find the relationship between taking non-prescribed drugs and predisposing, enabling and need factors. Specifically, our main aim is to find the relationship between taking non-prescribed drugs and the lack of health care. Methods: We used data from the last 2019 National Health Survey and estimate logistic regressions for the whole sample and stratified by sex. Results: The most striking finding is that people self-medicating with non-prescribed drugs seem to be replacing health care when this is not used because of financial constraints or distance from provider. This suggests that non-prescribed drugs are a fast, affordable, alternative to health care. Other findings show that income and the financial resources to cope with unexpected expenditure are considerations in taking these drugs. Health and needs are other factors triggering their consumption. Conclusion: Policy measures need to be aimed at improving access to medical care, providing responses to health needs such as those arising from chronic pain, and improving health literacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aida Isabel Tavares
- CEISUC - Centre for Health Studies and Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- ISEG, UL - Lisbon School of Economics and Management, University of Lisbon, Lisbon, Portugal
| | - Pedro Lopes Ferreira
- CEISUC - Centre for Health Studies and Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- FEUC - Faculty of Economics, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
| | - Veronica Cavadas
- CEISUC - Centre for Health Studies and Research, University of Coimbra, Coimbra, Portugal
- USF Marquês de Marialva, ACES Baixo Mondego, Coimbra, Portugal
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Lucca JM, Joseph R, Al-Sunbul Z, Althawab L. Impact of Pharmacophobia and Pharmacophilia on Perception of Medication Use and Self-Medication Behaviors in Saudi Arabia. Psychopharmacol Bull 2022; 52:85-99. [PMID: 36339273 PMCID: PMC9611794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Objectives Pharmacophilia and pharmacophobia have positive and negative effects on treatment outcomes. There exist lacune of information on these phenomena in middle east countries. Therefore the current study aimed to determine the pattern and predictors of Pharmacophilia and pharmacophobia in Saudi Arabia. The study further explored the impact of these phenomena on the perception of medication use and self-medication behaviours. Experimental design An online questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted during March-May 2021. Saudi residents aged 15 years or older were eligible for this study. Individuals' attitude towards medication was assessed using the Drug attitude inventory classification questionnaire, and the general belief of medication was assessed using the Beliefs about Medicine Questionnaire. Observation One-fifth (n = 101; 20%) and two-third (n = 338; 65%) participants were categorized as pharmacophobic and pharmacophilic, respectively. The mean BMQ score was not statistically significant between the pharmacophobic and pharmacophilic groups (mean difference = 0.314; p-value = 0.176). Males were more likely pharmacophilic than females [AOR: 0.34 (95% CI 0.17-0.69)]. Both groups showed nearly a similar pattern of self-medication behaviours. Conclusion There exist a good number of pharmacophobic and pharmacophilic among the Saudi population. A detailed understanding of the attitudes towards treatment among these groups is essential for enhancing treatment outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jisha M Lucca
- Lucca, Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Royes Joseph
- Joseph, Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Zainab Al-Sunbul
- Al-sunbul, Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
| | - Lujain Althawab
- Althawab, Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Clinical Pharmacy, Imam Abdulrahman Bin Faisal University, Dammam, Saudi Arabia
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Zhang Z, Ge P, Yan M, Niu Y, Liu D, Xiong P, Li Q, Zhang J, Yu W, Sun X, Liu Z, Wu Y. Self-Medication Behaviors of Chinese Residents and Consideration Related to Drug Prices and Medical Insurance Reimbursement When Self-Medicating: A Cross-Sectional Study. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2022; 19:13754. [PMID: 36360638 PMCID: PMC9656509 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph192113754] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2022] [Revised: 10/16/2022] [Accepted: 10/19/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-medication has become a common phenomenon. Economic factors are important factors that affect the self-medication of residents. This study aimed to investigate the current status of self-medication behaviors in China and explored the related factors affecting considerations associated with medical insurance reimbursement or drug price in self-medication. METHODS A national cross-sectional investigation was conducted among Chinese people over 18 years old under a multi-stage sampling method through a questionnaire, which includes demographic sociological characteristics, self-medication behaviors and scales. The Chi-square test was used to analyze whether the respondents consider medical insurance reimbursement or drug price as an important factor when purchasing over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. Logistic regression was used to examine the associated factors of considering medical insurance reimbursement or drug price. RESULTS In total, 9256 respondents were included in this study; 37.52% of the respondents regarded drug prices as an important consideration, and 28.53% of the respondents attached great importance to medical insurance reimbursement. Elderly respondents who lived in the central region, had medical insurance, and had lower levels of health literacy were more likely to consider the medical insurance reimbursement, while respondents with high monthly family income as well as students were less likely to consider the same issue (p < 0.05). Respondents settled in the central and western regions, students, those without fixed occupations, those who suffered from chronic diseases, or those with lower health literacy were more likely to consider drug prices, while the respondents with bachelor degrees, urban population and high per capita monthly income were less likely to consider the drug prices (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION Self-medication behaviors with OTC drugs were prevalent in China, and consideration factors of medical insurance reimbursement or drug prices were related to socio-demographic characteristics and health literacy. There is a need to take measures to reduce the economic burden of self-medication, improve the health literacy of residents and strengthen public health education.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ziwei Zhang
- School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Pu Ge
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao 999078, China
| | - Mengyao Yan
- School of Health Policy and Management, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences & Peking Union Medical College, Beijing 100006, China
| | - Yuyao Niu
- Faculty of Arts and Humanities, University of Macau, Macao 999078, China
| | - Diyue Liu
- International School of Public Health and One Health, Hainan Medical University, Haikou 571199, China
| | - Ping Xiong
- Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao 999078, China
| | - Qiyu Li
- School of Humanities and Management, Jinzhou Medical University, Jinzhou 121001, China
| | - Jinzi Zhang
- School of Humanities and Social Sciences, Harbin Medical University, Harbin 150076, China
| | - Wenli Yu
- School of Foreign Languages, Weifang University of Science and Technology, Weifang 262700, China
| | - Xinying Sun
- School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
| | - Zhizhong Liu
- School of Finance and Trade, Liaoning University, Shenyang 110036, China
| | - Yibo Wu
- School of Public Health, Peking University, Beijing 100191, China
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Luciano MT, Acuff SF, Olin CC, Lewin RK, Strickland JC, McDevitt-Murphy ME, Murphy JG. Posttraumatic stress disorder, drinking to cope, and harmful alcohol use: A multivariate meta-analysis of the self-medication hypothesis. J Psychopathol Clin Sci 2022; 131:447-456. [PMID: 35587413 PMCID: PMC9233097 DOI: 10.1037/abn0000764] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The association between posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and harmful alcohol use has often been explained through the self-medication hypothesis via coping-related drinking motives. However, the magnitude of the indirect effect of PTSD on harmful alcohol use through coping motives is unclear. This study aggregated this indirect effect using a meta-analytic structural equation modeling approach and explored moderators that influenced the indirect effect. We identified articles from PsycINFO, PubMed/MEDLINE, and PROQUEST (through June 22, 2021) containing measures of (a) PTSD symptoms, (b) coping-related drinking, and (c) harmful alcohol use. Thirty-four studies yielding 69 effect sizes were included (mean N = 387.26 participants; median N = 303.5; range = 42-1,896; aggregate sample n = 15,128). Coping motives mediated the relation between PTSD and harmful alcohol use, accounting for 80% of the variance in the total effect. Moderating variables and evidence of publication bias were also found. Findings suggest that coping-related drinking is a strong mediator in the relation between PTSD and harmful alcohol use and that the strength of the indirect effect is meaningfully influenced by measurement approach, sample characteristics, and study design. Additional longitudinal and multivariate studies are needed to establish directionality and account for additional variance. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).
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Setiadi AP, Wibowo YI, Setiawan E, Mulyono I, Wardhani SA, Sunderland B. Strategies to implement community training to promote responsible self-medication in Indonesia: a qualitative study of trainers. Int Health 2022; 14:398-404. [PMID: 31961435 PMCID: PMC9248060 DOI: 10.1093/inthealth/ihz115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/12/2019] [Revised: 10/29/2019] [Accepted: 10/30/2019] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND A community-based approach has been identified as one key strategy to improve the health of Indonesians. In 2015, the government initiated the 'Smart Use of Medications Movement' (GeMa CerMat) to promote responsible self-medication. This study aims to explore pharmacist/pharmacy staff trainers' views on strategies to implement GeMa CerMat community training. METHODS Four focus group discussions were conducted with 38 pharmacist/pharmacy staff trainers in Ngawi, Indonesia and a thematic analysis was used to obtain the key strategies. RESULTS The identified key strategies were building community readiness via well-designed training (considering participant characteristics, training methods, and materials and resources); policy, regulation and organizational support; access to training in a cultural context; communication media to promote training and the inclusion of active-learning tools. CONCLUSIONS These identified multilevel strategies require collaboration among national bodies and the involvement of trusted community members ('change agents'). A new strategy using 'active learning tools' was necessary to build critical thinking and understanding of the use of medications in everyday life. Future research should focus on process, impact and outcome evaluation involving GeMa CerMat training implementation and sustainability in Indonesia.
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Affiliation(s)
- Adji P Setiadi
- Centre for Medicines Information and Pharmaceutical Care – Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Surabaya, Surabaya 60293, Indonesia
| | - Yosi I Wibowo
- Centre for Medicines Information and Pharmaceutical Care – Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Surabaya, Surabaya 60293, Indonesia
| | - Eko Setiawan
- Centre for Medicines Information and Pharmaceutical Care – Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Surabaya, Surabaya 60293, Indonesia
| | - Ika Mulyono
- Centre for Medicines Information and Pharmaceutical Care – Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitas Surabaya, Surabaya 60293, Indonesia
| | - Susilo A Wardhani
- East Java Provincial Health Office, Ministry of Health Republic of Indonesia, Surabaya 60231, Indonesia
| | - Bruce Sunderland
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Health Sciences, Curtin University, Perth, Western Australia 6102, Australia
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Saha A, Marma KKS, Rashid A, Tarannum N, Das S, Chowdhury T, Afrin N, Chakraborty P, Emran M, Mehedi HMH, Hussain MI, Barua A, Mistry SK. Risk factors associated with self-medication among the indigenous communities of Chittagong Hill Tracts, Bangladesh. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0269622. [PMID: 35696405 PMCID: PMC9191716 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0269622] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background In developing countries like Bangladesh, self-medication has become a predicament associated with health risks and clinical complications. To date, no studies have been conducted on the practice of self-medication among the indigenous population living in Chittagong Hill Tract (CHT). Objectives This study was aimed to determine the prevalence of self-medication and analyzing the factors associated with it among the indigenous population in CHT. Methods This cross-sectional study was conducted from late October to early December 2020; among different indigenous group populations residing in the three districts of CHT aged 18 or more. A pre-tested and semi-structured questionnaire was developed to collect data on socio-demographic characteristics, health status, frequency of self-medication, reasons for self-medication in last one year, as well as other variables. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to assess associated factors with self-medication. Results A total of 1350 people from different indigenous populations were interviewed, among whom 49.9% practiced self-medication. The rate of self-prescribed antibiotics usage (80.9%) was significantly higher compared to other drugs. Self-prescribed medications were mostly used for diarrhea and food poisoning (60.6%), cough, cold and fever (51.4%), and headache (51.4%). A common source of self-prescribed medicines was community or retail pharmacy and the most reported reason for self-prescribed medication was the long-distance of healthcare facilities from home. Conclusion The prevalence of self-medication is substantially high among indigenous people and the effect is alarming. Particular concern is the misuse of antibiotics and analgesic drugs. Increasing awareness among the population of the negative effect of self-medication and implementation of proper policies and actions are urgently needed to prevent self-medication among indigenous population in Bangladesh.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayan Saha
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, East West University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- * E-mail: ,
| | | | - Afrah Rashid
- Department of Public Health and Bioinformatics, Asian University for Women, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Nowshin Tarannum
- Department of Microbiology, University of Chittagong, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Srabanty Das
- Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, University of Chittagong, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | | | - Nusrat Afrin
- Department of Pharmacy, University of Chittagong, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Prashanta Chakraborty
- Department of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology, University of Chittagong, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | - Md. Emran
- Department of Biochemistry & Biotechnology, University of Science & Technology Chittagong, Chattogram, Bangladesh
| | | | | | - Ashim Barua
- Upazila Health Complex, Alikadam, Bandarban, Bangladesh
| | - Sabuj Kanti Mistry
- ARCED Foundation, Mirpur, Dhaka, Bangladesh
- Centre for Primary Health Care and Equity, University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
- Department of Public Health, Daffodil International University, Dhaka, Bangladesh
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Shembo AKP, Musumari PM, Srithanaviboonchai K, Tangmunkongvorakul A, Dalleur O. A qualitative study on community use of antibiotics in Kinshasa, Democratic Republic of Congo. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0267544. [PMID: 35476752 PMCID: PMC9045656 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0267544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Resistance to antibiotics is an increasing and major threat to global health. While the large majority of antimicrobial use occurs in the community where antibiotics are available without prescription, we did not find any studies investigating community-level factors influencing the inappropriate use of antibiotics in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where non-prescription antibiotic use is prevalent. METHODS This qualitative study was conducted from April 1st 2019 to May 5th 2019 and consisting of in-depth semi-structured interviews, utilizing purposive and snowball sampling schemes to recruit adult heads of households in the Pakadjuma slum, in Kinshasa, DRC. Participants with differing medical and educational backgrounds were selected. We employed a thematic analysis approach to explore community knowledge and use of antibiotics in the sampled population. RESULTS A total of 18 participants with a median age of 35 years were interviewed. The majority was female (77.7%), had at least a secondary education (83.4%), and unemployed (61.1%). We found that participants were familiar with the term "antibiotics", but had limited knowledge of the indications and risks of antibiotics, including the risk of antibiotic resistance. Inappropriate use of antibiotics was common and there was frequent self-medication of non-prescribed medicines for a range of non-indicated conditions such as menstruation. Having limited income was the most commonly reported reason for not visiting a health facility for appropriate health care. CONCLUSION Inappropriate use of antibiotics is a widespread practice and is influenced by lack of adequate knowledge of antibiotic use, indications and risks, prevalent self-medication, and financial barriers to accessing appropriate health care. There is need for both community education as well as structural interventions addressing poverty in order to reduce the inappropriate use of antibiotics in the Pakadjuma slum in Kinshasa.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Patou Masika Musumari
- Global Health Interdisciplinary Unit, Center for the Promotion of Interdisciplinary Education and Research, Kyoto University, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto, Japan
- Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Sriphum, Muang Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | - Kriengkrai Srithanaviboonchai
- Research Institute for Health Sciences, Chiang Mai University, Sriphum, Muang Chiang Mai, Thailand
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Sriphum, Muang, Chiang Mai, Thailand
| | | | - Olivia Dalleur
- Clinical Pharmacy–Louvain Drug Research Institute, Université Catholique de Louvain UCLouvain, Brussels, Belgium
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Yasmin F, Asghar MS, Naeem U, Najeeb H, Nauman H, Ahsan MN, Khattak AK. Self-Medication Practices in Medical Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Analysis. Front Public Health 2022; 10:803937. [PMID: 35356012 PMCID: PMC8959567 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.803937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and ObjectivesDuring the pandemic, the growing influence of social media, accessibility of over-the-counter medications, and fear of contracting the virus may have led to self-medication practices among the general public. Medical students are prone to such practices due to relevant background knowledge, and access to drugs. This study was carried out to determine and analyze the prevalence of self-medication practices among medical students in Pakistan.Materials and MethodsThis descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted online in which the participants were asked about the general demographics, their self-medication practices and the reasons to use. All participants were currently enrolled in a medical college pursuing medical or pharmacy degree. Non-probability sampling technique was used to recruit participants.ResultsA total of 489 respondents were included in the final analysis. The response rate was 61%. Majority of the respondents were females and 18–20 years of age. Self-medication was quite prevalent in our study population with 406 out of 489 individuals (83.0%) were using any of the drugs since the start of pandemic. The most commonly utilized medications were Paracetamol (65.2%) and multivitamins (56.0%). The reasons reported for usage of these medications included cold/flu, or preventive measures for COVID-19. The common symptoms reported for self-medication included fever (67.9%), muscle pain (54.0%), fatigue (51.7%), sore throat (46.6%), and cough (44.4%). Paracetamol was the most commonly used drug for all symptoms. Female gender, being in 3rd year of medical studies, and individuals with good self-reported health were found more frequent users of self-medication practices.ConclusionOur study revealed common self-medication practices among medical and pharmacy students. It is a significant health issue especially during the pandemic times, with high consumption reported as a prevention or treating symptoms of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Yasmin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Sohaib Asghar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences–Ojha Campus, Karachi, Pakistan
- *Correspondence: Muhammad Sohaib Asghar
| | - Unaiza Naeem
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Hala Najeeb
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Hamza Nauman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Nadeem Ahsan
- Department of Nephrology, Dow University of Health Sciences–Ojha Campus, Karachi, Pakistan
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty Brown
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Asma Yahyouche
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Shamil Haroon
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Jenny Camaradou
- University of Birmingham PPI, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Grace Turner
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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Kong JD, Tchuendom RF, Adeleye SA, David JF, Admasu FS, Bakare EA, Siewe N. SARS-CoV-2 and self-medication in Cameroon: a mathematical model. J Biol Dyn 2021; 15:137-150. [PMID: 33538240 DOI: 10.1080/17513758.2021.1883130] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Self-medication is an important initial response to illness in Africa. This mode of medication is often done with the help of African traditional medicines. Because of the misconception that African traditional medicines can cure/prevent all diseases, some Africans may opt for COVID-19 prevention and management by self-medicating. Thus to efficiently predict the dynamics of COVID-19 in Africa, the role of the self-medicated population needs to be taken into account. In this paper, we formulate and analyse a mathematical model for the dynamics of COVID-19 in Cameroon. The model is represented by a system of compartmental age-structured ODEs that takes into account the self-medicated population and subdivides the human population into two age classes relative to their current immune system strength. We use our model to propose policy measures that could be implemented in the course of an epidemic in order to better handle cases of self-medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jude D Kong
- Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Toronto, ON Canada
- Canadian Center for Diseases Modeling (CDM), York University, Toronto, ON Canada
| | - Rinel F Tchuendom
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, McGill University, Montreal, QC, Canada
| | - Samuel A Adeleye
- Department of Genetics, Rutgers University, New Brunswick, NJ, USA
| | - Jummy F David
- Department of Mathematics, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | | | - Emmanuel A Bakare
- Laboratory of Modelling in infectious Diseases and Applied Sciences (LOMIDAS)
- Department of Mathematics, Federal University Oye Ekiti, Ekiti, Nigeria
| | - Nourridine Siewe
- School of Mathematical Sciences, College of Sciences, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, USA
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Kafle S, Jha N, Shankar PR. Mean Knowledge Score of Self-Medication among First and Second Year Medical and Dental Students in a Medical College: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study. JNMA J Nepal Med Assoc 2021; 59:1146-1149. [PMID: 35199767 PMCID: PMC9124320 DOI: 10.31729/jnma.6443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Accepted: 11/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/01/2022] Open
Abstract
Introduction: Self-medication is common among medical students. Medical and dental students can also educate the population about the use of medicines. The aim of the study was to find the mean knowledge score of self-medication among first and second year medical and dental students at a medical college in Nepal.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out in a medical college from 1st to 28th February 2021 using a structured online questionnaire after obtaining approval from the Institutional Review Committee (approval number 077/78/32). Convenience sampling method was undertaken. The responses were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 26.
Results: Out of 173 students the mean±SD knowledge score was 79.47±6.76. The mean knowledge score of the participants of age group 17-18, 19-20 and 21-22 years were 83.8, 79 and 79.1 respectively. The mean knowledge scores of the male and female participants were 80.2 and 78.6 respectively. Similarly, the knowledge scores of respondents from undergraduate medical and dental backgrounds were 80.1 and 77.7 respectively.
Conclusions: Knowledge of self-medication was high among the students. However, educational sessions to further improve and strengthen knowledge can be carried out to improve the knowledge.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sajala Kafle
- Department of Pharmacology, KIST Medical College, Lalitpur, Nepal
| | - Nisha Jha
- Department of Pharmacology, KIST Medical College, Lalitpur, Nepal
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Mannasaheb BA, Al-Yamani MJ, Alajlan SA, Alqahtani LM, Alsuhimi SE, Almuzaini RI, Albaqawi AF, Alshareef ZM. Knowledge, Attitude, Practices and Viewpoints of Undergraduate University Students towards Self-Medication: An Institution-Based Study in Riyadh. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:8545. [PMID: 34444294 PMCID: PMC8394125 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18168545] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/12/2021] [Revised: 07/31/2021] [Accepted: 08/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
Rational and responsible self-medication (SM) is not only the key to better health outcomes, but also key to limiting adverse drug events. This institution-based cross-sectional study utilized seven- and four-item scales to assess the knowledge and attitude towards SM. Similarly, SM practices were measured using eight scale questions consisting of SM practice during the last six months, type of drug consumed, reason and frequency of SM, and so on. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS. Overall, 371 students completed the questionnaire. The students with a good level of knowledge and positive attitude towards SM were 60.64% and 66.8%, respectively. About 55.5% of students practiced SM during the last six months using antipyretics (37.7%), multivitamins (36.4%), sleeping aids (20.2%), and anti-histamines (18.6%). Headache (79.2%), fever (37.7%), pain (25.9%), and colds and coughs (25.3%) were the illnesses for which they sought SM. The students admitted that drug side effects (75%), drug resistance (33.7%), drug interaction (41.5%), and poor treatment outcome (28.3%) were the consequences of irrational SM practice. Students (87.6%) propose that extending SM awareness through the Ministry of Health (83%) and pharmaceutical companies (48%) as major platforms would improvise the rational practice. Since AlMaarefa University students will be future healthcare professionals, their perception must be considered and accordingly educated to practice rational SM.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Mohammed Jaber Al-Yamani
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia;
| | - Sarah Abdulrahman Alajlan
- College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.A.); (L.M.A.); (S.E.A.); (R.I.A.); (A.F.A.); (Z.M.A.)
| | - Lamyaa Munahi Alqahtani
- College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.A.); (L.M.A.); (S.E.A.); (R.I.A.); (A.F.A.); (Z.M.A.)
| | - Shrouq Eid Alsuhimi
- College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.A.); (L.M.A.); (S.E.A.); (R.I.A.); (A.F.A.); (Z.M.A.)
| | - Razan Ibrahim Almuzaini
- College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.A.); (L.M.A.); (S.E.A.); (R.I.A.); (A.F.A.); (Z.M.A.)
| | - Abeer Fahad Albaqawi
- College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.A.); (L.M.A.); (S.E.A.); (R.I.A.); (A.F.A.); (Z.M.A.)
| | - Zahaa Majed Alshareef
- College of Pharmacy, AlMaarefa University, Riyadh 13713, Saudi Arabia; (S.A.A.); (L.M.A.); (S.E.A.); (R.I.A.); (A.F.A.); (Z.M.A.)
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Chattopadhyay S. Care of Parkinson's disease (PD) patients in times of covid-19 pandemic. Diabetes Metab Syndr 2021; 15:102168. [PMID: 34198109 PMCID: PMC8186057 DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2021.06.005] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2021] [Revised: 05/31/2021] [Accepted: 06/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Sidhartha Chattopadhyay
- Department of Neuromedicine, KPC Medical College & Hospital, Jadavpur, Kolkata, 700032, West Bengal, India.
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Sánchez-Sánchez E, Fernández-Cerezo FL, Díaz-Jimenez J, Rosety-Rodriguez M, Díaz AJ, Ordonez FJ, Rosety MÁ, Rosety I. Consumption of over-the-Counter Drugs: Prevalence and Type of Drugs. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:ijerph18115530. [PMID: 34064096 PMCID: PMC8196755 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18115530] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/16/2021] [Revised: 05/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2021] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
Recently, there has been an increase in the use of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. The consumption of these medicines can be unsafe, as incorrect self-diagnosis or the ingestion of inappropriate doses can lead to side effects and the occurrence of adverse reactions and drug–drug interactions. A cross-sectional descriptive observational study was carried out, targeting the entire Spanish population by using an online questionnaire. The results showed that 78.9% of the subjects had previously taken or were currently taking OTC drugs. This consumption decreased as the age of the subjects increased, with a prevalence of 36.4% of subjects aged ≥ 71 taking OTC drugs. Analgesics were the most consumed OTC drugs (49.1%) especially in women, youngsters with non-formal educational qualifications, and individuals of a low–medium socioeconomic level residing in urban areas. Measures should be implemented to optimize the safe use of OTC drugs in order to avoid the occurrence of secondary events associated with the lack of knowledge related to their the usage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eduardo Sánchez-Sánchez
- Internal Medicine Department, Punta de Europa Hospital, Algeciras, 11207 Cádiz, Spain;
- Instituto de Investigación e Innovación Biomédica de Cádiz (INiBICA), Hospital Universitario Puerta del Mar, Universidad de Cádiz, 11009 Cádiz, Spain
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +34-671569320
| | | | - Jara Díaz-Jimenez
- Doctoral School of the University of Cádiz (EDUCA), Campus Cádiz, Edificio Hospital Real (Primera Planta), Plaza Falla 8, 11003 Cádiz, Spain;
| | - Manuel Rosety-Rodriguez
- Medicine Department, School of Medicine, University of Cádiz, Plaza Fragela s/n, 11003 Cadiz, Spain;
| | - Antonio Jesús Díaz
- Medicine Department, School of Nursing, University of Cadiz, Plaza Fragela s/n, 11003 Cadiz, Spain;
| | - Francisco Javier Ordonez
- Human Anatomy Department, School of Medicine, University of Cádiz, Plaza Fragela s/n, 11003 Cadiz, Spain; (F.J.O.); (I.R.)
| | - Miguel Ángel Rosety
- Move-It Research Group, Biomedical Research and Innovation Insitute of Cadiz, Puerta del Mar University Hospital, University of Cádiz, Plaza Fragela s/n, 11003 Cadiz, Spain;
| | - Ignacio Rosety
- Human Anatomy Department, School of Medicine, University of Cádiz, Plaza Fragela s/n, 11003 Cadiz, Spain; (F.J.O.); (I.R.)
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Niriayo YL, Mohammed K, Asgedom SW, Demoz GT, Wahdey S, Gidey K. Self-medication practice and contributing factors among pregnant women. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0251725. [PMID: 34014975 PMCID: PMC8136661 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0251725] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2020] [Accepted: 04/30/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The practice of self-medication during pregnancy is a global challenge that necessitates high attention as it poses a potential threat to the pregnant mother and fetus. However, little is known regarding self-medication practice and its contributors among pregnant women in our setting. OBJECTIVE The main aim of this study was to investigate the practice of self-medication and its contributing factors among pregnant women. METHODOLOGY A cross sectional study was conducted among pregnant women at antenatal care follow-up of Ayder comprehensive specialized hospital, Tigray, Ethiopia. Written informed consent was obtained from each participant before interview. Simple random sampling technique was employed to recruit participants in to the study. Data were collected by interviewing participants using the structured questionnaire. Binary logistic regressions analysis was performed to determine the contributing factors of self-medication practice during pregnancy. A p value of less than 0.05 was considered as significant. RESULTS A total of 250 pregnant women were included in the study. Of the total, 40.8% practiced self-medication during the current pregnancy. Morning sickness (39.2%), headache (34.3%), and upper respiratory tract infections (29.4%) were the leading indications for self-medication. According to participant report, ease of access to medicines (25.5%), feelings that the disease is minor (21.6%) and timesaving (19.6%) were the most commonly reported reasons for self-medication practice. Absence of health insurance (AOR: 2.75, 95%CI: 1.29-5.89) and being on first trimester of pregnancy (AOR: 2.44, 95%CI: 1.02-5.86) were significant contributors of self-medication practice among pregnant women. CONCLUSION In our study, high prevalence of self-medication was reported among pregnant women. Self-medication practice during pregnancy was higher among pregnant women on first trimester and those who were not having health insurance. Therefore, intervention programs should be designed to minimize the practice of self-medication during pregnancy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yirga Legesse Niriayo
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia
- * E-mail: ,
| | - Kadra Mohammed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Solomon Weldegebreal Asgedom
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Gebre Teklemariam Demoz
- Departments of Pharmacy, Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice Unit, College of Health Sciences, Aksum University, Axum, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Shishay Wahdey
- Department of Public Reproductive Health, School of Public Health, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia
| | - Kidu Gidey
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health Sciences, Mekelle University, Mekelle, Tigray, Ethiopia
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Faqihi AHMA, Sayed SF. Self-medication practice with analgesics (NSAIDs and acetaminophen), and antibiotics among nursing undergraduates in University College Farasan Campus, Jazan University, KSA. Ann Pharm Fr 2021; 79:275-285. [PMID: 33098875 PMCID: PMC7577276 DOI: 10.1016/j.pharma.2020.10.012] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2020] [Revised: 09/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/13/2020] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE Self-medication practices are widely practiced globally as major form of self-care for pain management. Unfortunately, with COVID-19 pandemic, prescription only drugs are now increasingly being self-prescribed. Present study was therefore, conducted to generate data on self-medication practice with analgesics using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen, and the antibiotics among nursing students of University College Farasan Campus. MATERIALS AND METHODS A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 177 study participants (20±3 years) between December 2019 to February 2020 using questionnaire. Data analyses were done using origin software (6.1, Illinois, USA). Significance was considered at P<0.05. Study was conducted in Department of Nursing, University College Farasan Province, a premier educational institute of Farasan Island affiliated to Jazan university, KSA. RESULTS Self-medication practices were high among nursing students (n=154 participants, 87%). Acetaminophen was highest used drug for analgesic purposes without prescriptions (n=101 participants, 57%). Among NSAIDs, Ibuprofen was most preferred for various analgesic purposes (n=35 participants, 20%) followed by diclofenac (n=9 participants, 5%) and meloxicam (n=5 participants, 3%). Azithromycine was the only antibiotic used by participants (n=4 participant, 2%). Most common causes of self-medication were headache (45%), menstrual pain (23%) and fever (14%). Main reason for self-medications was lack of time to consult doctor (68%). Furthermore, self-medication was significantly associated with study year (P<0.003). CONCLUSION Results give rise to concern for general well-being of future nursing workforce. There is need to implement educational actions and awareness programmes to limit self-medication practices among educated youth of this beautiful Island.
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Affiliation(s)
- A H M A Faqihi
- Department of nursing, university college Farasan Province, Jazan university, KSA, Farasan, Jazan, Saudi Arabia
| | - S F Sayed
- Department of nursing, university college Farasan Province, Jazan university, KSA, Farasan, Jazan, Saudi Arabia.
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Seiberth JM, Moritz K, Herrmann NS, Bertsche T, Schiek S. What influences the information exchange during self-medication consultations in community pharmacies? A non-participant observation study. Res Social Adm Pharm 2021; 18:2444-2456. [PMID: 33840622 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2021.03.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2020] [Revised: 03/21/2021] [Accepted: 03/27/2021] [Indexed: 11/19/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although pharmaceutical staff consider guideline-compliant information exchange during self-medication consultations as crucial, they have not fully integrated it into practice. It is unclear what prevents pharmaceutical staff from implementing their positive intentions into their actual everyday practice. To improve the information exchange during the current consultation practice, a deeper understanding of its implementation is needed. OBJECTIVES The aim was to evaluate the factors influencing information exchange during self-medication consultations in German community pharmacies. METHODS We performed a non-participant observation of real-life consultations with post-consultation interviews of pharmaceutical staff in 10 pharmacies. The information exchanged during self-medication consultations was evaluated via 7 guideline-recommended information parameters in 2 stages of information exchange: (a) 'information gathering' and (b) 'provision of information'. Directly after each observed consultation, pharmaceutical staff's opinion about the consultation, the customer's interest and their own performance was questioned. Factors associated with the observed extent of information exchange were analysed by Poisson regression analysis. RESULTS In the 379 self-medication consultations with 46 pharmaceutical staff members, 454 different customer enquiries were addressed, and 483 medications were dispensed. In median, 2 predefined information parameters (First-/Third quartile: 1/4) were fulfilled during an enquiry and 2 parameters (First-/Third quartile: 1/3) were fulfilled for a dispensed medication. Pharmaceutical staff were satisfied with 85% of their consultations and perceived 76% of them as easy to handle. In both information stages, information exchange increased when 'customers were perceived to be interested in counselling' (p < 0.001) and decreased when customers had a 'specific medication request' (p < 0.001). CONCLUSIONS Information exchange in pharmacies needs to be better integrated into daily practice. Strategies to encourage information exchange should also include pharmaceutical staffs' perception of their own counselling technique. Ongoing patient-centred trainings should facilitate strategies to engage uninterested customers or costumers with specific medication requests in consultations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Mina Seiberth
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany; Drug Safety Center, University Hospital Leipzig and Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Katharina Moritz
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany; Drug Safety Center, University Hospital Leipzig and Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Nia Sophie Herrmann
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany; Drug Safety Center, University Hospital Leipzig and Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Thilo Bertsche
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany; Drug Safety Center, University Hospital Leipzig and Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany.
| | - Susanne Schiek
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany; Drug Safety Center, University Hospital Leipzig and Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
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Koumou GCG, Pam KPBB, Arrayhani M, Houssaini TS, El Mrini A. [Achilles tendinopathy in a hemodialysis patient complicated by rupture of the Achilles tendon due to self-medication with ciprofloxacin: about a case]. Pan Afr Med J 2021; 38:312. [PMID: 34285735 PMCID: PMC8265256 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2021.38.312.9269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2016] [Accepted: 01/09/2017] [Indexed: 11/29/2022] Open
Abstract
This study aims to remind clinicians of fluoroquinolone-related tendinopathies. They are rare side effects, but which can result in functional disability. We report the case of a 79-year-old woman with a 11-year history of haemodialysis who had sudden left ankle pain and functional impairment in the ipsilateral member on day 5th after self-medication with ciprofloxacin. Comorbidities included chronic gonarthrosis, secondary hyperparathyroidism and ischemic heart disease. The diagnosis of bilateral Achilles tendinopathy and rupture of the left Achilles tendon was retained due to clinical features and confirmed by ultrasound of ankles. Ciprofloxacin-associated tendon rupture was evaluated using the French method of accountability for drug unexpected side effects or toxicity. Tendon rupture management was based on surgery followed by functional rehabilitation program with satisfactory outcome. The frequency of fluoroquinolone-related tendinopathies ranges from 15 to 20 accidents per 100,000 subjects treated, a third of whom are complicated by tendon rupture. Incidence is related to age, affecting mainly people > 60 years and involving tissular aging. Pefloxacin and ciprofloxacin are the most offending molecules. In our study, the delay in the onset of symptoms on day 5 after self-medication was consistent with literature. We detected some common contributing factors including chronic renal failure, hemodialysis and the assumption of statins and corticosteroids. Fluoroquinolone-related tendinopathies are characterized by common clinical features which allow diagnosis. They mostly affect Achilles tendon. They are bilateral in 40-66% of cases. Tendon rupture is the main complication. Management is based on surgery. It allows to restore anatomy and to prevent detrimental functional disability. We here report a rare but potentially serious fluoroquinolones-related side effect, exposing the patient to the risk of functional disability. Advanced age, chronic renal failure, chronic haemodialysis, concomitant use of statins and corticosteroids are common contributing factors confirmed in this study. Hemodialysis patients constitute a population at risk; hence the importance of remote monitoring after treatment with these molecules.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Mohamed Arrayhani
- Service de Néphrologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Hassan II, Fès, Maroc
- Equipe de Recherche Renal Exploration and Investigations in Nephrology (REIN), Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie de Fès, Fès, Maroc
| | - Tarik Sqalli Houssaini
- Service de Néphrologie, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Hassan II, Fès, Maroc
- Equipe de Recherche Renal Exploration and Investigations in Nephrology (REIN), Faculté de Médecine et de Pharmacie de Fès, Fès, Maroc
| | - Abdelmajid El Mrini
- Service de Traumatologie-Orthopédie B4, Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Hassan II, Fès, Maroc
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Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Pilots are more aware of drugs and self-medication in the internet age. However, they are unaware of the effects of self-medication, which may impede their cognitive and decision-making performance. The aim of this study was to determine the awareness levels of ab initio (student) pilots on self-medication and factors contributing to the prevalence of self-medication among them. To the best of the authors knowledge, this is the first study examining ab initio pilots knowledge on medication use and the causality of self-medication among them.METHODS: A 17-item questionnaire was developed and administered online to 500 students across 5 flight training organizations (FTO) in Turkey. The response rate was 97/500. For the descriptive analysis of the data, SPSS (the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) was used.RESULTS: Based on the results, fear of medical disqualification and job loss is the most significant factor resulting in the prevalence of self-medication among ab initio pilots. Most of the ab initio pilots (88.7%, N 86) were aware of self-medication and its threat to flight safety. Furthermore, three factors influencing the level of awareness and knowledge of ab initio pilots on this subject were evaluated.DISCUSSION: All flight training organizations should educate ab initio pilots on the consequences of self-medication. Furthermore, ab initio pilots should be encouraged to consult an aeromedical examiner with any ailment before a flight.Kilic B. Self-medication among ab initio pilots. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2021; 92(3):167171.
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Islam MS, Ferdous MZ, Islam US, Mosaddek ASM, Potenza MN, Pardhan S. Treatment, Persistent Symptoms, and Depression in People Infected with COVID-19 in Bangladesh. Int J Environ Res Public Health 2021; 18:1453. [PMID: 33562427 PMCID: PMC7914967 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18041453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 22.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/23/2020] [Revised: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Background: Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has affected people's lives globally. While important research has been conducted, much remains to be known. In Bangladesh, initial treatment (self-administered, hospitalized), persistent COVID-19 symptoms ("long COVID-19"), and whether COVID-19 leads to changes in mental state, such as depressive symptoms, of people are not known. This study aimed to examine treatment, persistent symptoms, and depression in people who had been infected with COVID-19 in Bangladesh. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted on 1002 individuals infected with COVID-19 (60% male; mean age = 34.7 ± 13.9; age range = 18-81 years), with data taken over a one-month period (11 September 2020 to 13 October 2020). A self-reported online questionnaire was used to collect data on socio-demographics, lifestyle, COVID-19 symptoms (during and beyond COVID-19), medication (over-the-counter or doctor-prescribed), and depression (assessed using the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ-9)). Results: Twenty-four percent of participants self-medicated with over-the-counter medicine when they were first diagnosed with COVID-19. Self-medication was higher among female vs. male respondents (29.6% vs. 20.2%, respectively, p = 0.002). A minority (20%) reported that they experienced persistent COVID-like symptoms after recovering from COVID-19. The most reported persistent symptoms were diarrhea (12.7%) and fatigue (11.5%). Forty-eight percent of participants were categorized as having moderate to severe depression. Based on multivariate regression analysis, depression during COVID-19 was positively associated with lower family income, poor health status, sleep disturbance, lack of physical activity, hypertension, asthma/respiratory problems, fear of COVID-19 re-infection, and persistent COVID-19 symptoms. Conclusions: The findings suggest a need for appropriate interventions for COVID-19 patients to promote physical and mental wellbeing.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md. Saiful Islam
- Department of Public Health and Informatics, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh; (M.Z.F.); (U.S.I.)
- Youth Research Association, Savar, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh
| | - Most. Zannatul Ferdous
- Department of Public Health and Informatics, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh; (M.Z.F.); (U.S.I.)
| | - Ummay Soumayia Islam
- Department of Public Health and Informatics, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka 1342, Bangladesh; (M.Z.F.); (U.S.I.)
| | - Abu Syed Md. Mosaddek
- Department of Pharmacology, Uttara Adhunik Medical College, Uttara, Dhaka 1230, Bangladesh
- Quest Bangladesh Biomedical Research Center, Lalmatia, Dhaka 1207, Bangladesh
| | - Marc N. Potenza
- Department of Psychiatry, and Child Study Center, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06510, USA;
- Connecticut Mental Health Center, New Haven, CT 06519, USA
- Connecticut Council on Problem Gambling, Wethersfield, CT 06519, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, Yale University, New Haven, CT 06510, USA
| | - Shahina Pardhan
- Vision and Eye Research Institute, School of Medicine, Anglia Ruskin University, Young Street, Cambridge CB1 2LZ, UK;
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Hashemzaei M, Afshari M, Koohkan Z, Bazi A, Rezaee R, Tabrizian K. Knowledge, attitude, and practice of pharmacy and medical students regarding self-medication, a study in Zabol University of Medical Sciences; Sistan and Baluchestan province in south-east of Iran. BMC Med Educ 2021; 21:49. [PMID: 33446190 PMCID: PMC7807440 DOI: 10.1186/s12909-020-02374-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/07/2020] [Accepted: 11/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-medication is defined as using medicinal products to treat the disorders or symptoms diagnosed by oneself. Although informed self-medication is one of the ways to reduce health care costs, inappropriate self-treatment can pose various risks including drug side effects, recurrence of symptoms, drug resistance, etc. The purpose of this study was to investigate the knowledge, attitude, and practice of pharmacy and medical students toward self-medication. METHODS This study was conducted in Zabol University of Medical Sciences in 2018. Overall, 170 pharmacy and medical students were included. A three-part researcher-made questionnaire was designed to address the students' knowledge, attitude, and practice. Statistical analysis was performed in SPSS 25 software. RESULTS According to the results, 97 (57.1%) students had carried out self-medication within the past 6 months. Overall, the students self-medicated on average 4.2 ± 2.9 times per year. Self-medication was more common in male students (65.4%, P = 0.043). Cold was the most common ailment treated with self-medication (93.2%), and antibiotics (74.4%) were the most commonly used drugs. The primary information sources used by the students were their previous prescriptions (47.4%). Pharmacy students had a higher level of drug information (P < 0.001). There was a statistically significant association between the level of drug information and the tendency for self-medication (P = 0.005). Disease recurrence was the most common negative complication of self-medication. CONCLUSION There is a need to educate pharmacy and medical students regarding self-medication and its side effects. The high prevalence of self-medication and the overuse of antibiotics can pose a significant risk of drug resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mahmoud Hashemzaei
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
- Toxicology and Addiction Research Center, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Mahdi Afshari
- Department of Community Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Zahra Koohkan
- Students Research Committee, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Ali Bazi
- Faculty of Allied Medical Sciences, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran
| | - Ramin Rezaee
- Clinical Research Unit, Faculty of Medicine, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
- Neurogenic Inflammation Research Center, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Kaveh Tabrizian
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran.
- Toxicology and Addiction Research Center, Zabol University of Medical Sciences, Zabol, Iran.
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Navabi N, Rakhshanifard M, Pourmonajemzadeh S, Samieirad S, Hashemipour MA. Evaluation of Self-medication for Management of Odontogenic Pain in Iranian Patients. Oral Health Prev Dent 2021; 19:179-188. [PMID: 33723977 DOI: 10.3290/j.ohpd.b1074601] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/06/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE Analgesics (painkillers) are one of the most widely used medications to reduce and control pain. The objective of this study was to investigate the self-medication with analgesics (narcotic or non-narcotic) in controlling odontogenic pain in patients visiting dental offices, dental clinics, and the dental school of Kerman. MATERIALS AND METHODS This was a descriptive-analytic study, conducted in 2018. The study sample included patients referring to dental offices, dental clinics and the dental school of Kerman. After obtaining informed consent, a questionnaire consisting of demographic data and questions regarding the consumption of different types of analgesics for relieving and controlling odontogenic pain and their impact on patients was given by the researcher to the respondents. The patients were asked to complete and return the forms. The questionnaire consisted of three categories of questions, including demographic data, pain characteristics (severity, aggravating factors, relieving factors, etc) and the drug used to relieve the pain. Pain severity was measured using a visual analogue scale (VAS). Mann-Whitney and chi-squared tests were used for statistical analysis in SPSS. RESULTS This study included 230 males and 351 females (male:female ratio = 0.66) in the age range of 18 to 71 years old (38.21 ± 7.45). 2.6% of respondents were illiterate and 11.3% of respondents were unemployed. The mean value of pain intensity was 6.21 ± 1.11 on a scale of 1 to 10. The types of drugs used for pain relief included 71.8% analgesics, 12.1% complementary medicines and 16.1% antibiotics. The most commonly used medication was NSAIDS, followed by acetaminophen codeine. In this study, the fourth most common medication consumed by patients as an analgesic was amoxicillin. Moreover, it showed that 44.3% (257 individuals) of study participants had used analgesics as self-medication to relieve odontogenic pain, of which 46.08% were males (N = 107) and 42.68% were females (N = 150). The gender of respondents, level of education, and occupation were significantly associated with the consumption of opioid drugs (p = 0.023, p = 0.041, p = 0.011, respectively). Consumption of opioid medications was not statistically significantly correlated with pain intensity (p = 0.115). CONCLUSION The factors affecting the appropriate use of medications are social, economic, cultural, and flaws in the health-care system of a society. This study showed that the medications used to reduce pain included analgesics, traditional drugs, and antibiotics. The rate of self-medication was higher among men and among those having a higher level of education.
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Seiberth JM, Moritz K, Vogel CF, Bertsche T, Schiek S. Public's perspectives on guideline-recommended self-medication consultations in German community pharmacies. Health Soc Care Community 2021; 29:194-205. [PMID: 32681607 DOI: 10.1111/hsc.13082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2019] [Revised: 04/30/2020] [Accepted: 06/10/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
The aim of this study was to assess the public's opinions and expectations of self-medication consultations in German community pharmacies with special emphasis on the acceptance of guideline-recommended consultation. In a cross-sectional study in the city centre of Leipzig, Germany, we conducted a questionnaire-based survey administered via an interview with passers-by from June to September 2018. The structured questionnaire contained questions assessing (I) previous experience with self-medication consultations, (II) possible reasons for declining self-medication consultations, (III) the attitude towards information gathering and (IV) expectations of self-medication consultations. (I) 92% of the 963 respondents stated they were generally satisfied with self-medication consultations in community pharmacies. Around one-fifth of all respondents claimed that they would like to be asked more health-related questions (22%) and receive more information on non-prescription drugs (20%). (II) Privacy issues (39%) and reluctance to talk about some medical conditions (43%) were the most frequent reasons for declining self-medication consultation. (III) Respondents understood the need for answering guideline-recommended questions (85-96%) and did not mind being asked these questions (70-96%). (IV) Most of the respondents expected to be counselled even if they did not ask for it directly (69%). Pharmacies were further expected to recommend the best drug, even if it was not what the customer initially intended to buy (87%). However, more than half of the respondents would consider counselling as unimportant if they knew exactly which medication they wanted to buy (56%) or if they had used the non-prescription drug before (70%). The majority also expected to receive guideline-recommended drug information (each item at least 52%). Thus, our study shows that respondents were mostly in line with the required standards of self-medication counselling guidelines. Customers expect high-quality counselling on self-medication. These findings support pharmaceutical staff's understanding of customers' barriers and expectations during self-medication consultations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmin Mina Seiberth
- Drug Safety Center, University Hospital of Leipzig and Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Katharina Moritz
- Drug Safety Center, University Hospital of Leipzig and Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Carl Friedrich Vogel
- Drug Safety Center, University Hospital of Leipzig and Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Thilo Bertsche
- Drug Safety Center, University Hospital of Leipzig and Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
| | - Susanne Schiek
- Drug Safety Center, University Hospital of Leipzig and Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Institute of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine, Leipzig University, Leipzig, Germany
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Nusair MB, Al-Azzam S, Alhamad H, Momani MY. The prevalence and patterns of self-medication with antibiotics in Jordan: A community-based study. Int J Clin Pract 2021; 75:e13665. [PMID: 32772449 DOI: 10.1111/ijcp.13665] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2020] [Accepted: 08/06/2020] [Indexed: 02/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-medication with antibiotics is one of the leading causes of antibiotic resistance and drug therapy problems, making antibiotic self-medication practices a global concern. Despite global efforts to limit these practices, self-medication with antibiotics remains prevalent in developing countries. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence and patterns of self-medication with antibiotics in Jordan and to compare the findings of self-medication practices with antibiotics with results from 2006. METHOD A cross-sectional community-based study used a convenient sampling technique and recruited a large sample from all over Jordan. Between February and April 2019 trained 5th-year pharmacy students recruited participants (eg, door to door) who had taken antibiotics in the preceding month. The questionnaire consisted of 14 questions that aimed to describe the patterns of self-medication with antibiotics. RESULTS A total of 1928 participants took part in this study. Of the 1928 respondents, 40.4% reported having used an antibiotic without a prescription in the previous month. Participants who had self-medicated with antibiotics had primarily used them for sore throat and influenza. Self-medicated participants had obtained antibiotics primarily from pharmacies (57.2%) and relied primarily on pharmacists (34.8%) and their own previous experience (35.2%) for information on the proper use of antibiotics. The rate of self-medication with antibiotics in Jordan in 2019 (40.4%) had not changed significantly since 2006 (39.5%, P = .295). However, self-medication practices (eg, source of antibiotic supply and information) have changed over the year. CONCLUSION The findings of this study revealed that the prevalence of self-medication with antibiotics in Jordan remains high. This is a significant concern that requires a quick response from the government authorities to develop a collaborative approach to stop the dispensing of antibiotics without a prescription.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammad B Nusair
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Sayer Al-Azzam
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid, Jordan
| | - Hamza Alhamad
- Faculty of Pharmacy, Zarqa University, Zarqa, Jordan
| | - Mohammad Y Momani
- Pharmacy Practice Department, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid, Jordan
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Abstract
OBJECTIVES The study aimed at identifying the commonly used non-prescribed antibiotics (NPAs) and the main health conditions leading to the practices of self-medication with antibiotics (SMAs) in Maputo city, Mozambique. DESIGN Cross-sectional qualitative study based on individual and group interviews. SETTING The study was conducted in nine pharmacies of three socioeconomic areas of Maputo city, from October 2018 to March 2019. PARTICIPANTS The study included 32 pharmacy clients and 17 pharmacists. The pharmacy clients included men 10 (31%) and women 22 (69%) ranging from 19 to 67 years while the pharmacists included men 6 (35,3%) and women 11 (64,7%) with ages ranging from 24 to 47 years. FINDINGS The majority of the pharmacy clients 30 (93.75%) admitted frequent use of NPAs, 15 (88.2%) out of the 17 pharmacists admitted dispensing NPAs. While the majority of the participants (16) mentioned the use of amoxicillin, also known as 'two colours medicine', 14 mentioned the use of cotrimoxazole and seven mentioned amoxicillin with clavulanic acid. Two to five participants also used tetracycline, ciprofloxacin, azithromycin, doxycycline, erythromycin, metronidazole and phenoxymethylpenicillin. The above mentioned NPAs were used to treat self-perceived sore throat, fever, pain, cough, vaginal discharge, eye problems, the common influenza, urinary infections, respiratory tract infections, wounds and toothaches. CONCLUSIONS Antibiotics are perceived as essential medical resources to manage health and illnesses. While taking an active role in their health-disease process, participants commonly used amoxicillin, 'two colours', cotrimoxazole and amoxicillin with clavulanic acid to manage their health and that of their families. In this sense, the practices of SMAs were perceived as part of the self-care process and not necessarily as misuse of antibiotics. A wideunderstanding of health-seeking beliefs and behaviours regarding the utilisation of antibiotics is needed to inform public health experts, health policymakers and other stake-holders in designing and implementing public health education and health promotion programsat all levels in Mozambique.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neusa F Torres
- Research Unit, Instituto Superior de Ciências de Saúde - ISCISA, Maputo, Mozambique
- School of Nursing and Public Health, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Vernon P Solomon
- Discipline of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
| | - Lyn E Middleton
- Discipline of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Durban, South Africa
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Rahayu YYS, Araki T, Rosleine D. Factors affecting the use of herbal medicines in the universal health coverage system in Indonesia. J Ethnopharmacol 2020; 260:112974. [PMID: 32428656 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112974] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2019] [Revised: 05/10/2020] [Accepted: 05/10/2020] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Medicinal plants play an essential role in primary healthcare practices in Indonesia, particularly in rural areas. While medicinal plants are broadly used in Indonesia, the country has made a commitment to healthcare services based on modern medicine through the provision of universal health coverage (UHC). AIM OF THE STUDY In the context of the UHC system in Indonesia, we explore the utilization of medicinal plants in rural West Java by examining how herbal medicine use varies with socio-economic and demographic factors and whether herbal medicine use remains important when modern healthcare becomes available. MATERIALS AND METHODS A total of 634 households in the two rural communities were randomly selected to participate in the survey. A semi-structured questionnaire was administered to a randomly selected adult in each household. RESULTS Herbal medicine use prevalence was found to be 68% (431/634). Out of 549 total respondents with perceived illness, 40% (219/549) self-medicated with herbal medicines in the last six months. A total of 102 medicinal plant species belonging to 43 families were reported, each with their local names, medicinal use, and parts used. We found that herbal medicine use was significantly associated with the area of residence, age, education level and occupation, and was not correlated to gender or health insurance possession. CONCLUSION Medicinal plant remains a significant aspect of healthcare for rural communities in the West Java area. The presence of healthcare services under the UHC system is not a critical determining factor for treatment-seeking and may have less impact on the pervasive practice of herbal medicine use in rural areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yen Yen Sally Rahayu
- Department of Global Agricultural Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Science, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi Bunkyo, Ward Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan.
| | - Tetsuya Araki
- Department of Global Agricultural Sciences, Graduate School of Agricultural and Life Science, The University of Tokyo, 1-1-1 Yayoi Bunkyo, Ward Tokyo, 113-8657, Japan.
| | - Dian Rosleine
- Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences and Technology, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Jl. Ganeca 10, Bandung, 40132, Indonesia.
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Erhabor GE. Antibiotics - Self Medication, BCG Scar and the On-Going Challenge of Covid-19. West Afr J Med 2020; 37:435-437. [PMID: 33058115] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
EDITORIAL.
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Affiliation(s)
- G E Erhabor
- Department of Medicine,College of Health Sciences, Obafemi Awolowo University Teaching Hospital,Ile-Ife,Nigeria
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Tobin EA, Atulomah NO. Antibiotic Self-Medication among Adult Out-patient Clinic Attendees in Nigeria. West Afr J Med 2020; 37:507-514. [PMID: 33058126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES The study was conducted to determine the prevalence and pattern of antibiotic selfmedication and associated risk factors among out-patients clinic attendees in Edo state, Nigeria. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted among 800 consenting adult attendees at the general out -patient department of five secondary and one tertiary health facilities. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences. Chi-square test was used for bivariate analysis, and significant variables analyzed with multivariate logistic regression. Statistical significance p was set at < 0.05. RESULTS Three hundred and seventy four (46.8%) of 800 respondents had self-medicated with antibiotics 6 months preceding the study with commonly used drugs as Ampicillin/Cloxacillin (31.3%) and Amoxycillin (24.8%). Respiratory tract conditions were the most common reasons for taking antibiotics, 100 (27.2%). Primary reasons for self-medication was the availability of the drug at the local drug store. Being divorced or widowered (AOR 0.302, 95% CI 0.117-0.781, p = 0.01) and age > 70 years (AOR 0.18, 95% CI 0.04-0.84, p = 0.03) were significantly negatively associated with antibiotic self-medication. CONCLUSION The practice of self-medication with antibiotics was high among adult out-patients in the study area, and primarily due to the ease with which antibiotics can be brought across the counter. Restrictions on over-the-counter sale of antibiotics and sensitization of drug sellers is an urgently required intervention to stem the tide. Public enlightenment on dangers of self-medication especially targeting at risk groups identified by the study is also required.
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Affiliation(s)
- E A Tobin
- Institute of Lassa Fever Research and Control, Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Irrua, Edo state, Nigeria
| | - N O Atulomah
- Department of Public Health, Babcock University, Ilishan Remo, Ogun State, Nigeria
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Greene AM, Panyadee P, Inta A, Huffman MA. Asian elephant self-medication as a source of ethnoveterinary knowledge among Karen mahouts in northern Thailand. J Ethnopharmacol 2020; 259:112823. [PMID: 32387460 DOI: 10.1016/j.jep.2020.112823] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/30/2020] [Revised: 03/29/2020] [Accepted: 03/29/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE Ethnoveterinary medicine is often assumed to be a subset of human medicinal knowledge. Here we investigate the possibility that some ethnoveterinary medicine rather originates from observations of animal self-medication. We document and analyze the ethnoveterinary medicine used by Karen mahouts for elephant care and attempt to determine whether this knowledge originated from humans or elephants. MATERIALS AND METHODS Elephant camp owners and mahouts in four communities in northern Thailand were interviewed about their knowledge and use of plants for ethnoveterinary elephant care. For each ethnoveterinary plant, data were collected on Karen human medicinal uses and whether elephants independently consume them. Based on overlaps between ethnoveterinary use, human medicinal use and elephant dietary use, plants were classified into three categories: those that originated from Karen human medicine, those that originated from Asian elephant self-medication, and those which were present in both human and elephant knowledge traditions. RESULTS The use of 34 plants (32 identified at least to genus) and two additional non-plant remedies (salt and human urine) were reported to be used in ethnoveterinary elephant medicine. A total of 44 treatments in 11 use categories were recorded: tonic, wounds, compress, eye problems, indigestion, broken bones, galactagogue, snakebite, fatigue, skin and musth regulation. Of the ethnoveterinary plants, 55% had the same use in human medicine, 43% had different uses and 2% had no use. Elephants consume 84% of the ethnoveterinary plants as part of their natural diet. DISCUSSION Analysis indicates that 32% of plant uses likely originated from Karen human medicine, 60% of plant uses likely existed independently in both human and elephant knowledge systems, and 8% of plant uses likely originated from elephant self-medicating behavior. The tonic use category shows the strongest evidence of influence from observations of elephant self-medication. The use of tonic medicines appears to be increasing as a way to mitigate the unnaturally limited diet of elephants in tourist camps. CONCLUSION Ethnoveterinary medicine for elephant care is influenced by both human medicinal knowledge and elephant knowledge of plants for self-medication. The ethnoveterinary knowledge domain appears to be the result of an interactive process linked to convergent evolution or co-evolution between humans and Asian elephants.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Prateep Panyadee
- Queen Sirikit Botanic Garden, The Botanical Garden Organization, Chiang Mai, Thailand.
| | - Angkhana Inta
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Science, Chiang Mai University, Thailand; Center of Excellence in Bioresources for Agriculture, Industry and Medicine, Chiang Mai University, Thailand.
| | - Michael A Huffman
- Department of Behavior and Ecology, Primate Research Institute, Kyoto University, Inuyama, Japan.
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Cambaco O, Alonso Menendez Y, Kinsman J, Sigaúque B, Wertheim H, Do N, Gyapong M, John-Langba J, Sevene E, Munguambe K. Community knowledge and practices regarding antibiotic use in rural Mozambique: where is the starting point for prevention of antibiotic resistance? BMC Public Health 2020; 20:1183. [PMID: 32727445 PMCID: PMC7389384 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-09243-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Accepted: 07/12/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibiotic misuse and other types of unnecessary use of antibiotics can contribute to accelerate the process of antibiotic resistance, which is considered a global concern, mostly affecting low-and middle-income countries (LMICs). In Mozambique there is limited evidence on community knowledge and practices regarding antibiotics and antibiotic resistance. As part of the ABACUS project, this paper describes knowledge and practices of antibiotic use among the general population in the semi-rural district of Manhiça to inform evidence-based communication intervention strategies for safer antibiotic use. METHODS The study was conducted in Manhiça, a semi-rural district of Southern Mozambique. Sixteen in-depth interviews and four focus group discussions (FGDs) were conducted with community members to explore lay knowledge and practices regarding antibiotics and awareness of antibiotic resistance. The qualitative data was analysed using a combination of content and thematic analysis. The SRQR guidelines for reporting qualitative studies was performed. RESULTS Although participants did not hold any consistent knowledge of antibiotics, their visual recognition of amoxicillin (distinct red yellow capsule) was acceptable, but less so for different types and brands of antibiotics. The majority of participants were aware of the term 'antibiotic', yet the definition they gave was rarely backed by biomedical knowledge. Participants associated antibiotics with certain colours, shapes and health conditions. Participants reported common habits that may contribute to resistance: not buying the full course, self-medication, sharing medicines and interruption of treatment. Most had never heard of the term 'antibiotic resistance' but were familiar with the phenomenon. They often understood the term 'resistance' as treatment failure and likened 'resistance' to non-compliance, ineffective medication, disease resistance or to an inability of the physical body to respond to it. CONCLUSION There is a broad understanding of the importance of medication compliance but not specifically of antibiotic resistance. In addition, there is a recognized gap between knowledge of responsible drug compliance and actual behaviour. Future qualitative research is required to further explore what determines this behaviour. The existing ability to visually identify amoxicillin by its distinct red and yellow appearance is informative for future awareness and behavioural change campaigns that may incorporate visual aids of antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Olga Cambaco
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Manhiça, Mozambique
| | | | - John Kinsman
- Department of Epidemiology and Global Health, Umeå University, Umeå, Sweden
| | - Betuel Sigaúque
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Manhiça, Mozambique
| | - Heiman Wertheim
- Department of Medical Microbiology and Center for Infectious Diseases, Radboudumc, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Nga Do
- Oxford University Clinical Research Unit, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Margaret Gyapong
- Centre for Health Policy and Implementation Research, Kintampo, Ghana
| | | | - Esperança Sevene
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Manhiça, Mozambique
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, Maputo, Mozambique
| | - Khátia Munguambe
- Centro de Investigação em Saúde de Manhiça (CISM), Manhiça, Mozambique.
- Faculdade de Medicina, Universidade Eduardo Mondlane, Maputo, Mozambique.
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