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Ansari N, Ajmera P, Dadhich A. Pharmacist's knowledge and attitude towards self-medication practices: a cross-sectional study for the development and validation of questionnaire. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMACY PRACTICE 2024; 32:294-302. [PMID: 38856721 DOI: 10.1093/ijpp/riae027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/11/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pharmacists play an essential role in self-medication by providing guidance and counselling services to consumers; hence, it is necessary to assess pharmacists' awareness and attitude towards self-medication to promote responsible self-medication practices. OBJECTIVE To develop a valid and reliable instrument to assess the knowledge and attitude of pharmacists towards self-medication practices and their role in promoting responsible self-medication. METHOD A questionnaire was developed in English after a relevant literature review, which was further administered to a sample of 105 community pharmacists. The reliability of the questionnaire was assessed using the Karl-Pearson correlation and Cronbach alpha statistics. Content validity was evaluated by subject experts. The dimensional structure of items was assessed through exploratory factor analysis and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). KEY FINDINGS The final questionnaire comprises 27 items for knowledge and attitude with a Karl-Pearson correlation value of 0.896 and Cronbach alpha value of 0.814 (24 items), indicating good internal consistency and reproducibility. Factor analysis identified five factors: namely, (i) attitude towards providing guidance and advice to consumers to promote responsible SMP, (ii) attitude towards shared responsibility for promoting rational medicine supply and use, (iii) knowledge of the advantages and disadvantages of SMP, (iv) knowledge of the definition of self-medication, (v) attitude towards professional competency of a pharmacist as a healthcare provider. CFA results demonstrate good model fit with the value of Chi-square (184.56), CFI (0.937), RMSEA (0.054), and SRMR (0.075). Model validity measures ensure satisfactory validity and reliability. CONCLUSIONS The findings demonstrate a valid and reliable measure for assessing the knowledge and attitude of pharmacists towards self-medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nahid Ansari
- School of Allied Health Sciences and Management, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi 110017, India
| | - Puneeta Ajmera
- School of Allied Health Sciences and Management, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi 110017, India
| | - Abhishek Dadhich
- School of Allied Health Sciences and Management, Delhi Pharmaceutical Sciences and Research University, New Delhi 110017, India
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Brata C, Wibowo YI, Setiawan E, Halim SV, Razanah A, Sholikhah IM, Lailla PR, Rahmadini A, Putri IAERS, Schneider CR. Pharmacists' clinical decision making when responding to a self-medication request for a cough in a developing country. Res Social Adm Pharm 2024:S1551-7411(24)00173-6. [PMID: 38762365 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2024.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/05/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 05/07/2024] [Indexed: 05/20/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Some studies have reported that community pharmacies in developing countries, including Indonesia, provided sub-optimal advice when handling patient's self-medication request for cough. The reasons behind such advice, therefore, need to be investigated. OBJECTIVES To describe Indonesian pharmacists' clinical decision making when handling self-medication cases for a cough. METHODS An open-ended questionnaire consisting of two cough clinical vignettes (case 1: cough due to asthma worsening and case 2: cough as a symptom of common cold) were developed. Pharmacists were interviewed to provide recommendations and reasons for their recommendations for these scenarios. Content analysis was used to analyse participants' statements for the two scenarios. The number of participants who provided appropriate recommendations and reasons were then counted. RESULTS A total of 245 community pharmacists participated in the study. In the case of cough due to asthma worsening, recommending a product because the product was indicated to help with the symptoms was the most common recommendation and stated reason (40%). Appropriate recommendation (direct medical referral) with appropriate reasoning (indicating warning symptoms and/or making a symptom diagnosis) was provided by 25% participants. In the case of cough as a symptom of common cold, recommending products to help with the symptoms was also the most common recommendation and stated reason (53%). Appropriate recommendations (recommending product) with appropriate reasoning (providing product to treat the symptoms and/or indicating no warning symptoms and/or making a symptom diagnosis) was provided by 81% participants. CONCLUSION The ability of Indonesian community pharmacists to provide appropriate recommendations for cough self-medication requests is dependent on whether triage is required. The inability of most community pharmacists to differentiate between major and minor conditions may lead to serious health implications for patients and therefore educational interventions should be undertaken to improve community pharmacists' differential diagnostic skills for triage.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Brata
- Centre of Medicine Information and Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Surabaya, Gedung FF Lantai 5, Jalan Raya Kalirungkut, Surabaya, Jawa Timur, 60293, Indonesia.
| | - Yosi Irawati Wibowo
- Centre of Medicine Information and Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Surabaya, Gedung FF Lantai 5, Jalan Raya Kalirungkut, Surabaya, Jawa Timur, 60293, Indonesia
| | - Eko Setiawan
- Centre of Medicine Information and Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Surabaya, Gedung FF Lantai 5, Jalan Raya Kalirungkut, Surabaya, Jawa Timur, 60293, Indonesia
| | - Steven Victoria Halim
- Centre of Medicine Information and Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Surabaya, Gedung FF Lantai 5, Jalan Raya Kalirungkut, Surabaya, Jawa Timur, 60293, Indonesia
| | - Afina Razanah
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Surabaya, Jalan Raya Kalirungkut, Surabaya, Jawa Timur, 60293, Indonesia
| | - Ima Mar'atus Sholikhah
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Surabaya, Jalan Raya Kalirungkut, Surabaya, Jawa Timur, 60293, Indonesia
| | - Putri Rohmatu Lailla
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Surabaya, Jalan Raya Kalirungkut, Surabaya, Jawa Timur, 60293, Indonesia
| | - Azilah Rahmadini
- Faculty of Pharmacy, The University of Surabaya, Jalan Raya Kalirungkut, Surabaya, Jawa Timur, 60293, Indonesia
| | | | - Carl R Schneider
- School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Pharmacy and Bank Building (A15) Science Road, NSW, 2006, Australia
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Alrasheed M, Hamdy Mansy W, Naser Al-Arifi M. Community pharmacist intervention in doxycycline self-medication for acne among pregnant women in Saudi Arabia. Saudi Pharm J 2024; 32:102027. [PMID: 38525265 PMCID: PMC10960118 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2024.102027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2023] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 03/26/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Self-medication during pregnancy remains a prevalent global phenomenon, with pregnant women often relying on their own judgment to manage symptoms. Objective: This study aimed to assess community pharmacist practice regarding self-medication requests for acne treatment in pregnant women within Saudi Arabia. Methods A descriptive, observational cross-sectional study was conducted in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Community pharmacists completed a questionnaire after interacting with a simulated customer (SC) seeking doxycycline for a pregnant woman. Data were analyzed using SPSS software. Results One hundred community pharmacists participated in the study. The majority were between 25 and 35 years old (56 %) and worked in chain pharmacies (81 %). Notably, 71 % requested a prescription before dispensing any medication. While 66 % advised the SC to consult a physician or dermatologist, only 15 % inquired about the pregnancy and related information of the SC's sister. Conclusion This study suggests a positive trend in community pharmacy practice regarding self-medication requests during pregnancy. However, further improvement is needed, particularly in terms of in-depth inquiry about pregnancy status and potential risks associated with specific medications. Collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Health (MOH), Saudi Food and Drug Administration (SFDA), and pharmacy education programs are crucial to minimize inappropriate dispensing practices and ensure optimal patient safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marwan Alrasheed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy King Saud University, Riyadh 12372, Saudi Arabia
| | - Wael Hamdy Mansy
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy King Saud University, Riyadh 12372, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohamed Naser Al-Arifi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy King Saud University, Riyadh 12372, Saudi Arabia
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Hamadouk RM, Alshareif EM, Ibrahim OM, Albashair ED, Yousef BA. The Extent of Antibiotic Dispensing in Self-Medication Encounters in Sudan: A Simulated Patient Study Focusing on Cefixime Sale. INTEGRATED PHARMACY RESEARCH AND PRACTICE 2023; 12:227-237. [PMID: 38033381 PMCID: PMC10683652 DOI: 10.2147/iprp.s440010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/13/2023] [Accepted: 11/18/2023] [Indexed: 12/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Antibiotics play an important role in decreasing morbidity and mortality worldwide. However, inappropriate use of them by patients or healthcare professionals contributes to their resistance rendering them less efficacious. Community pharmacists (CPs) have a significant part in reducing antibiotic resistance. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the dispensing of antibiotics without prescription in community pharmacies with an emphasis on cefixime dispensing. Methods A cross-sectional, simulated patient (SP) study was conducted in the Khartoum locality. A total of 238 community pharmacies were randomly chosen using simple random sampling. One scenario of uncomplicated urinary tract infection was designed, and six female pharmacy students who were trained to act as SPs presented the scenario. Descriptive statistics were applied to report the study outcomes. Results In the 238 pharmacy visits, at least one antibiotic was dispensed without a prescription in 69.3% of the simulated visits. Among the dispensed antibiotics, ciprofloxacin was the most dispensed antibiotic followed by cefixime representing 51.5% and 41.8%, respectively, of total dispensed antibiotics. Cefixime was dispensed as a first choice by CPs in 29% of the visits, and in the rest of the visits, only 37.3% of CPs refused to dispense cefixime after SP demand. Conclusion The findings revealed a high rate of antibiotics dispensing without prescription by CPs in Khartoum state, and cefixime was obtained with ease before and after the patient's demand. Urgent corrective actions such as imposing strict regulations, monitoring pharmacists' practice, and endorsing educational programs for pharmacists are needed to prevent inappropriate antibiotic dispensing practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Riham M Hamadouk
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Almughtaribeen University, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Einass M Alshareif
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | | | - Esra D Albashair
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
| | - Bashir A Yousef
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Khartoum, Khartoum, Sudan
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Ndaki PM, Mwanga JR, Mushi MF, Konje ET, Fredricks KJ, Kesby M, Sandeman A, Mugassa S, Manyiri MW, Loza O, Keenan K, Mwita SM, Holden MTG, Mshana SE. Practices and motives behind antibiotics provision in drug outlets in Tanzania: A qualitative study. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0290638. [PMID: 37651424 PMCID: PMC10470936 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0290638] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2022] [Accepted: 08/11/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023] Open
Abstract
Dispensing antibiotics without prescription is among the major factors leading to antimicrobial resistance. Dispensing of antibiotics without prescription has negative impact at the individual and societal level leading to poor patient outcomes, and increased risks of resistant bacteria facilitated by inappropriate choice of antibiotics doses/courses. Antimicrobial resistance is a global public health threat which is projected to cause 10 million deaths by 2050 if no significant actions are taken to address this problem This study explored the practices and motives behind dispensing of antibiotics without prescription among community drug outlets in Tanzania. Finding of this study provides more strategies to antibiotics stewardship intervention. In-depth interviews with 28 drug dispensers were conducted for three months consecutively between November 2019 and January 2020 in 12 community pharmacies and 16 Accredited Drug Dispensing Outlets (ADDOs) in the Mwanza, Kilimanjaro and Mbeya regions of Tanzania. Transcripts were coded and analyzed thematically using NVivo12 software. Majority of dispensers admitted to providing antibiotics without prescriptions, selling incomplete courses of antibiotics and not giving detailed instructions to customers on how to use the drugs. These practices were motivated by several factors including customers' pressure/customers' demands, business orientation-financial gain of drug dispensers, and low purchasing power of patients/customers. It is important to address the motives behind the unauthorized dispensing antibiotics. On top of the existing regulation and enforcement, we recommend the government to empower customers with education and purchasing power of drugs which can enhance the dispensers adherence to the dispensing regulations. Furthermore, we recommend ethnographic research to inform antibiotic stewardship interventions going beyond awareness raising, education and advocacy campaigns. This will address structural drivers of AMR such as poverty and inadequate government health services, and the disconnect between public messaging and/or policy and the public itself.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pendo M. Ndaki
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Joseph R. Mwanga
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Martha F. Mushi
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Bugando School of Medicine, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Eveline T. Konje
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Kathryn Jean Fredricks
- Department of Geography and Sustainable Development, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Mike Kesby
- Department of Geography and Sustainable Development, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Alison Sandeman
- Department of Division of Infection and Global Health, School of Medicine, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Stella Mugassa
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Msilikale W. Manyiri
- Department of Biostatistics, Epidemiology and Behavioral Sciences, School of Public Health, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Olga Loza
- Department of Geography and Sustainable Development, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Katherine Keenan
- Department of Geography and Sustainable Development, University of St Andrews, St Andrews, United Kingdom
| | - Stanley M. Mwita
- School of Pharmacy, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Matthew T. G. Holden
- School of Pharmacy, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Mwanza, Tanzania
| | - Stephen E. Mshana
- Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Weill Bugando School of Medicine, Catholic University of Health and Allied Sciences, Mwanza, Tanzania
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Beardsley J, Chambers JM, Lam TT, Zawahir S, Le H, Nguyen TA, Walsh M, Thuy Van PT, Cam Van NT, Hoang TH, Mai Hung TT, Thai CH, Anh DD, Fox GJ. Mapping access to drug outlets in Vietnam: distribution of drug outlets and the sociodemographic characteristics of the communities they serve. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. WESTERN PACIFIC 2022; 30:100668. [PMID: 36748068 PMCID: PMC9897978 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2022.100668] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2022] [Revised: 10/23/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
Abstract
Background Drug outlets are a vital first point of healthcare contact in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs), but they are often poorly regulated and counter staff may be unqualified to provide advice. This introduces the risk of easy access to potentially harmful products, including unnecessary antimicrobials. Over-the-counter antimicrobial sales are a major driver of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) in LMICs. We aimed to investigate the distribution of different types of drug outlets and their association with socio-economic factors. Methods We mapped the location of drug outlets in 40 randomly selected geographic clusters, covering a population of 1.96 million people. Data including type of drug outlet, context, operating hours, chief pharmacist name and qualification, and business registration identification were collected from mandatory public signage. We describe the density of drug outlets and levels of staff qualifications in relation to population density, urban vs rural areas, and poverty indices. Findings We characterised 1972 drug outlets. In the study area, there was an average of 102 outlets/per 100,000 population, compared to the global average of 25. Predictably, population density was correlated with the density of drug outlets. We found that drug outlets were less accessible in rural vs urban areas, and for the poor. Furthermore, for these populations, degree-qualified pharmacists were less accessible and public signage frequently lacked mandatory registration information. Interpretation Drug outlets appear over-supplied in Vietnam compared to other countries. Unregistered outlets and outlets without degree-qualified pharmacists are prevalent, especially in poor and rural areas, posing a risk for inappropriate supply of antimicrobials, which may contribute to AMR, and raises questions of equitable healthcare access. Funding This study was funded by a grant from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Justin Beardsley
- University of Sydney Infectious Disease Institute, Sydney, NSW, Australia,Corresponding author. University of Sydney Infectious Disease Institute, Sydney, NSW, 2006, Australia.
| | | | | | - Shukry Zawahir
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Hanoi, Vietnam,Central Clinical School, The University of Sydney Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Hien Le
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Michael Walsh
- Sydney School of Public Health and Sydney Institute of Infectious Diseases, University of Sydney, Australia,Prasanna School of Public Health, Manipal Academy of Higher Education, Manipal, India
| | | | | | - Tran Huy Hoang
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | - Cao Hung Thai
- Medical Service Administration, Ministry of Health, Vietnam
| | - Dang Duc Anh
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Greg J. Fox
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Hanoi, Vietnam,Central Clinical School, The University of Sydney Faculty of Medicine and Health, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Developing a Tool for Auditing the Quality of Antibiotic Dispensing in Community Pharmacies: A Pilot Study. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11111529. [DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11111529] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control describes the community pharmacist as the gatekeeper to the quality of antibiotic use. The pharmacist has the responsibility to guard safe and effective antibiotic use; however, little is known about how this is implemented in practice. Aims: To assess the feasibility of a method to audit the quality of antibiotic dispensing in community pharmacy practice and to explore antibiotic dispensing practices in Greece, Lithuania, Poland, and Spain. Methods: The Audit Project Odense methodology to audit antibiotic dispensing practice was adapted for use in community pharmacy practice. Community pharmacists registered antibiotic dispensing on a specifically developed registration chart and were asked to provide feedback on the registration method. Results: Altogether, twenty pharmacists were recruited in four countries. They registered a total of 409 dispenses of oral antibiotics. Generally, pharmacists were positive about the feasibility of implementing the registration chart in practice. The frequency of checking for allergies, contraindications and interactions differed largely between the four countries. Pharmacists provided little advice to patients. The pharmacists rarely contacted prescribers. Conclusion: This tool seems to make it possible to get a useful picture of antibiotic dispensing patterns in community pharmacies. Dispensing practice does not seem to correspond with EU guidelines according to these preliminary results.
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de Souza EV, Vieira LJSC, dos Santos SNP, Cerqueira-Santos S, Rocha KSS, de Lyra DP. Antimicrobial dispensing process in community pharmacies: a scoping review. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control 2022; 11:116. [PMID: 36116000 PMCID: PMC9482305 DOI: 10.1186/s13756-022-01157-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2021] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Antimicrobial resistance remains a major global public health concern, and antimicrobial dispensing in community pharmacies is an important factor in preventing this damage. However, the current literature focuses on the technical and attitudinal aspects related to antimicrobial dispensing, with little emphasis on the interventions provided in this service. Thus, this study aimed to determine the antimicrobial dispensing process in community pharmacies. Methods A scoping review was performed in September 2020 using the PubMed, EMBASE, LILACS, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases. The search terms included words related to dispensing, antibacterial agents, and pharmacies in various combinations. Two reviewers screened the titles, abstracts, and full-text articles according to the eligibility criteria, and extracted the data. The findings were presented in a descriptive form. Results Of the 7713 studies screened, 35 were included, of which 22 (63%) were published in Asia. Most studies followed a cross-sectional design (n = 27), and the simulated patient was the most often used method to assess the antimicrobial dispensing process (n = 22). Moreover, 31 (89%) studies investigated antimicrobial dispensing without prescription, and only four (11%) studies evaluated antimicrobial dispensing with prescription. In the 35 studies, the most frequently asked questions were about drug allergies (n = 19) and patient symptoms (n = 18), and counseling mainly focused on the side effects (n = 14), precautions (n = 14), how to take the medication (n = 12), and duration of medication use (n = 11). Another common intervention was referral (n = 15). Among clinical cases, counseling on medication use occurred often in cases of urinary tract infection (51%) and otitis media (50%). Conclusions Antimicrobial dispensing processes have been primarily investigated in low- and middle-income countries, with a focus on dispensing antimicrobials without prescriptions. During the dispensing process, pharmacists mostly posed minimal questions and counseling, highlighting the deficiencies that persist in this practice. Our results indicate the need for multifaceted strategies, such as implementing educational, regulatory or administrative strategies and changes in cultural background, especially in low- and middle-income countries, that aim to reduce indiscriminate use of antimicrobials. Therefore, qualifying the antimicrobial dispensing process is a fundamental factor for improving the rational use of antimicrobials and reducing microbial resistance. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s13756-022-01157-0.
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Zawahir S, Le HTT, Nguyen TA, Beardsley J, Dang AD, Bernays S, Viney K, Cao TH, Drabarek D, Tran HH, Nguyen ST, Pham VTT, Luong TM, Tran HTM, Nguyen NV, Jan S, Marais BJ, Negin J, Marks GB, Fox GJ. Inappropriate supply of antibiotics for common viral infections by community pharmacies in Vietnam: A standardised patient survey. THE LANCET REGIONAL HEALTH. WESTERN PACIFIC 2022; 23:100447. [PMID: 35465041 PMCID: PMC9019242 DOI: 10.1016/j.lanwpc.2022.100447] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND This study aimed to evaluate the appropriateness of antibiotic dispensing of private pharmacies in Vietnam. METHODS Standardised patient surveys were conducted in randomly selected community pharmacies across 40 districts in Vietnam. Four clinical scenarios were represented by patient actors: (a) an adult requesting treatment for a sibling with a viral upper respiratory tract infection (URTI), (b) a parent requesting treatment for a child with acute diarrhoea, (c) an adult making a direct antibiotic request, and (d) an adult presenting with an antibiotic prescription. We calculated the proportion of interactions that resulted in inappropriate supply of antibiotics and patient advice. Predictors of inappropriate antibiotic supply were assessed. FINDINGS Patient actors attended 949 pharmacies, resulting in 1266 clinical interactions. Antibiotics were inappropriately supplied to 92% (291/316) of adults requesting treatment for URTI symptoms, 43% (135/316) for children with acute diarrhoea symptoms and to 84% (267/317) of direct request for antibiotics. Only 49% of pharmacies advised patients regarding their antibiotic use. Female actors were more likely to be given antibiotics than male actors for URTI (aOR 2·71, 1·12-6·60) but not for diarrhoeal disease. Pharmacies in northern Vietnam were more likely than those in southern Vietnam to supply antibiotics without a prescription: for adult URTI (aOR=5·8, 95% CI: 2·2-14·9) and childhood diarrhoea (aOR=3·5, 95% CI: 2·0-6·0) symptoms, but less likely to dispense for direct antibiotics request. INTERPRETATION Inappropriate antibiotic supply was common in Vietnamese private pharmacies. Multifaceted measures are urgently needed to achieve WHO's global action plan for the optimal use of antimicrobials. FUNDING This study was funded by a grant from the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shukry Zawahir
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
| | | | | | - Justin Beardsley
- The University of Sydney Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Anh Duc Dang
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | - Sarah Bernays
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Kerri Viney
- Centre of Global Health, Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institutet, Stockholm, Sweden
- Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra ACT, Australia
| | - Thai Hung Cao
- Medical Service Administration, Ministry of Health, Viet Nam
| | - Dorothy Drabarek
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Hoang Huy Tran
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | | | | | - Tan Minh Luong
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Viet Nam
| | | | | | - Stephen Jan
- The George Institute for Global Health Australia, Institute for Global Health, Sydney, Australia
| | - Ben J Marais
- The University of Sydney Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity, Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Joel Negin
- School of Public Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia
| | - Guy B Marks
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, University of Sydney, Glebe, Australia
- University of New South Wales, Sydney, Australia
| | - Greg J Fox
- Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, NSW 2006, Australia
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Perception of community pharmacists about the work process of drug dispensing: a cross-sectional survey study. BMC Health Serv Res 2022; 22:161. [PMID: 35135535 PMCID: PMC8822789 DOI: 10.1186/s12913-022-07528-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/22/2021] [Accepted: 01/21/2022] [Indexed: 12/04/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Drug dispensing aims to promote rational medicine use. However, in many countries, the work processes are still not well defined. In this sense, the perception of pharmacists about dispensing practices presents an overview of how the service is being performed in the country and its main challenges. Thus, the purpose of this study was to determine the self-reported work process of Brazilian community pharmacists in relation to drug dispensing, challenges, and strategies for carrying out the service. Method A cross-sectional survey was conducted between May and July 2021, with community pharmacists from all regions of Brazil. Pharmacists were invited to answer a validated, self-administered questionnaire, implemented through Google Forms, containing 33 questions related to the steps of drug dispensing (questions and counseling) and the main challenges and strategies to perform the service. The data were exported to Microsoft Office Excel and SPSS®. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to assess the association between responses and demographic information, with a significance level of less than 5% (p < 0.05). This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee (number: 4.295.171). Results A total of 625 community pharmacists responded to the survey. Most pharmacists reported always or frequently performing 17 (54%) of the 31 steps described in the instrument. The steps that pharmacists reported performing more frequently were forming the medication name (n = 569, 91.04%), verifying the completeness and adequacy of the prescription according to current legislation (n = 567, 90.72%) and providing counseling on dosage (n = 549, 87.84%). Documentation was the main step in which pharmacists reported never or rarely performing (n = 424, 67.84%). The results showed that there was a significant influence of the variables of public education institution, age, and postgraduate education on the frequency of dispensing steps (F(3, 621) = 14.884, p < 0.001; R2ajdusted = 0,063). Conclusion This study showed that most pharmacists reported always or frequently asking most of the questions and performing counseling contained in the instrument during drug dispensing. These results can contribute to an understanding of current dispensing practices and generate insights for developing strategies to qualify the service. Supplementary Information The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12913-022-07528-y.
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Al-Taani GM, Al-Azzam S, Karasneh RA, Sadeq AS, Mazrouei NA, Bond SE, Conway BR, Aldeyab MA. Pharmacists’ Knowledge, Attitudes, Behaviors and Information Sources on Antibiotic Use and Resistance in Jordan. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11020175. [PMID: 35203777 PMCID: PMC8868190 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11020175] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/11/2021] [Revised: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 01/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a serious healthcare problem that affects public health globally. Appropriate understanding and knowledge of prudent antimicrobial use and resistance, along with providing evidence-based information sources, are needed for informed antibiotic prescribing practices. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, opportunity, motivation, behavior of pharmacists and their information sources regarding antibiotic use and resistance in Jordan. An online cross-sectional questionnaire was developed and administered to pharmacists during the period of July–September 2021. The survey is an adapted version of the validated European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) survey for antibiotic use and resistance. Pharmacists from all sectors (n = 384), of whom 276 (71.9%) were community pharmacists, completed an online questionnaire. While respondents scored highly (>87%) on knowledge on effective use, unnecessary use, and associated side effects of antibiotics, lower scores were recorded for knowledge on the spread of antibiotic resistance (52.9%). Pharmacists support easy access to guidelines on managing infections in 56% of cases, and easy access to materials advising prudent antibiotic use and resistance in 39.8% of cases. One-third of respondents (37.0%) reported no knowledge of any initiatives on antibiotic awareness and resistance. Pharmacists were aware (13.3%), unaware (36.2%), or unsure (50.5%) of the existence of a national antibiotic resistance action plan. Pharmacists indicated an interest in receiving more information on resistance to antibiotics (55.2%), medical conditions for which antibiotics are used (53.1%), how to use antibiotics (45.1%), prescribing of antibiotics (34.4%), and links between the health of humans, animals, and the environment (28.6%). Findings can inform antimicrobial stewardship with required interventions to improve antibiotic use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ghaith M. Al-Taani
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Yarmouk University, Irbid 21163, Jordan;
| | - Sayer Al-Azzam
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Jordan University of Science and Technology, Irbid 22110, Jordan;
| | - Reema A. Karasneh
- Department of Basic Medical Sciences, Faculty of Medicine, Yarmouk University, Irbid 21163, Jordan;
| | - Adel Shaban Sadeq
- College of Pharmacy, Al Ain University, Al Ain 64141, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Nadia Al Mazrouei
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Pharmacotherapeutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Sharjah, Sharjah 27272, United Arab Emirates;
| | - Stuart E. Bond
- Pharmacy Department, Mid Yorkshire Hospitals NHS Trust, Wakefield WF1 4DG, UK;
| | - Barbara R. Conway
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield HD1 3DH, UK;
- Institute of Skin Integrity and Infection Prevention, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield HD1 3DH, UK
| | - Mamoon A. Aldeyab
- Department of Pharmacy, School of Applied Sciences, University of Huddersfield, Huddersfield HD1 3DH, UK;
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +0044-01484-472825
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12
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Zawahir S, Le H, Nguyen TA, Beardsley J, Duc AD, Bernays S, Viney K, Cao Hung T, McKinn S, Tran HH, Nguyen Tu S, Velen K, Luong Minh T, Tran Thi Mai H, Nguyen Viet N, Nguyen Viet H, Nguyen Thi Cam V, Nguyen Trung T, Jan S, Marais BJ, Negin J, Marks GB, Fox G. Standardised patient study to assess tuberculosis case detection within the private pharmacy sector in Vietnam. BMJ Glob Health 2021; 6:bmjgh-2021-006475. [PMID: 34615661 PMCID: PMC8496389 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2021-006475] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2021] [Accepted: 09/17/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Of the estimated 10 million people affected by (TB) each year, one-third are never diagnosed. Delayed case detection within the private healthcare sector has been identified as a particular problem in some settings, leading to considerable morbidity, mortality and community transmission. Using unannounced standardised patient (SP) visits to the pharmacies, we aimed to evaluate the performance of private pharmacies in the detection and treatment of TB. Methods A cross-sectional study was undertaken at randomly selected private pharmacies within 40 districts of Vietnam. Trained actors implemented two standardised clinical scenarios of presumptive TB and presumptive multidrug-resistant TB (MDR-TB). Outcomes were the proportion of SPs referred for medical assessment and the proportion inappropriately receiving broad-spectrum antibiotics. Logistic regression evaluated predictors of SPs’ referral. Results In total, 638 SP encounters were conducted, of which only 155 (24.3%) were referred for medical assessment; 511 (80·1%) were inappropriately offered antibiotics. A higher proportion of SPs were referred without having been given antibiotics if they had presumptive MDR-TB (68/320, 21.3%) versus presumptive TB (17/318, 5.3%; adjusted OR=4.8, 95% CI 2.9 to 7.8). Pharmacies offered antibiotics without a prescription to 89.9% of SPs with presumptive TB and 70.3% with presumptive MDR-TB, with no clear follow-up plan. Conclusions Few SPs with presumptive TB were appropriately referred for medical assessment by private pharmacies. Interventions to improve appropriate TB referral within the private pharmacy sector are urgently required to reduce the number of undiagnosed TB cases in Vietnam and similar high-prevalence settings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shukry Zawahir
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hien Le
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Kim Ma, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Thu Anh Nguyen
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Kim Ma, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Justin Beardsley
- The Marie Bashir Institute, Westmead Institute for Medical Research, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Anh Dang Duc
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Sarah Bernays
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Public Health and Policy, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Kerri Viney
- Centre of Global Health, Department of Public Health Sciences, Karolinska Institute, Stockholm, Sweden.,Research School of Population Health, Australian National University, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory, Australia
| | - Thai Cao Hung
- Medical Service Administration, Government of Viet Nam Ministry of Health, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Shannon McKinn
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Hoang Huy Tran
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Son Nguyen Tu
- Clinical Pharmacy, Hanoi University of Pharmacy, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | - Kavindhran Velen
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Tan Luong Minh
- National Institute of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | | | - Ha Nguyen Viet
- Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Kim Ma, Hanoi, Vietnam
| | | | | | - Stephen Jan
- The George Institute for Global Health, Newtown, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Ben J Marais
- Marie Bashir Institute for Infectious Diseases and Biosecurity and the Children's Hospital at Westmead, Sydney Medical School, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Joel Negin
- Faculty of Medicne and Health, The University of Sydney School of Public Health, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Guy B Marks
- South Western Sydney Clinical School, University of New South Wales, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia.,Woolcock Institute of Medical Research, Glebe, New South Wales, Australia
| | - Gregory Fox
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, Sydney, New South Wales, Australia
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13
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Sri Ranganathan S, Wanigatunge C, Senadheera GPSG, Beneragama BVSH. A national survey of antibacterial consumption in Sri Lanka. PLoS One 2021; 16:e0257424. [PMID: 34520501 PMCID: PMC8439449 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0257424] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2021] [Accepted: 08/31/2021] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Optimizing the use of antibacterial medicines is an accepted strategy to combat the antibacterial resistance. Availability of reliable antibacterial consumption (ABC) data is a prerequisite to implement this strategy. OBJECTIVES To quantify and describe the national ABC in Sri Lanka and to examine any differences in the consumption between public and private sector. METHODS The methodology for this survey was adapted from World Health Organization (WHO) methodology for a global programme on surveillance of antimicrobial consumption. Aggregate data on national consumption of systemic antibacterials (J01- Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical Classification (ATC) for 2017 were retrospectively extracted from all available data sources and classified using ATC classification. Quantity of consumption was converted to Defined Daily Doses (DDDs). Data are presented as total consumption and comparison between the public and private sector. Selected key quality indicators of ABC were compared between these two sectors. FINDINGS From the available data sources, the total ABC in 2017 was 343.46 million DDDs. Private sector consumption accounted for 246.76 million DDDs compared to 97.96 million DDDs distributed to entire public sector by the Ministry of Health. Beta-lactam-penicillins antibacterial group accounted for 58.79% in public sector compared to 27.48% in private sector while macrolides, quinolones and other beta-lactam antibacterials accounted for 60.51% in the private compared to 28.41% in public sector. Consumption of Reserve group antibacterials was negligible, and limited to private sector. Watch category antibacterials accounted for 46%, 24% and 54% of the total, public and private sector consumption, respectively. CONCLUSIONS A disproportionately higher use of broad spectrum and Watch category antibacterials was observed in the private sector which needs further study. This national consumption survey highlights the need and provides the opening for establishment of ABC surveillance in Sri Lanka.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Chandanie Wanigatunge
- Department of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medical Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
| | - G. P. S. G. Senadheera
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Lanka
| | - B. V. S. H. Beneragama
- National focal point for combating antimicrobial resistance in Sri Lanka, Ministry of Health, Colombo, Sri Lanka
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Janani TSJ, Risla R, Shanika LGT, Samaranayake NR. The extent of community pharmacists' involvement in detecting and resolving Drug Related Problems (DRPs) in prescriptions – A real time study from Sri Lanka. EXPLORATORY RESEARCH IN CLINICAL AND SOCIAL PHARMACY 2021; 3:100061. [PMID: 35480615 PMCID: PMC9031679 DOI: 10.1016/j.rcsop.2021.100061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2021] [Revised: 08/01/2021] [Accepted: 08/08/2021] [Indexed: 11/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Appropriate medication use is necessary to ensure patient safety. Drug Related Problems (DRPs) could result in patient harm. Purpose To assess the prevalence and types of DRPs in prescriptions, and the proportion of DRPs detected and resolved by community pharmacists during dispensation of prescriptions in a selected community pharmacy. Methods A prospective, cross-sectional study was conducted in a selected community pharmacy in Colombo, Sri Lanka, where one researcher reviewed for DRPs in systematically selected prescriptions (N = 400), and another directly observed the frequency of DRPs identified by community pharmacists in the same set of prescriptions. Actions taken by pharmacists on resolving DRPs were also documented. DRPs were classified according to a slightly modified version of Pharmaceutical Care Network Euro pe classification V8.01. Descriptive and comparative data analysis were performed using SPSS database V.21. P < 0.05 was considered as significant. Results Among 1986 medications, a total of 1211 DRPs were identified by researchers, of which only 441 DRPs were detected by community pharmacists who participated in the study (N = 24). DRPs identified by the researcher were related to medication selection (N = 15), medication form (N = 1), dose selection (N = 817), duration of treatment (N = 128), incomplete prescriptions (N = 128), and other (outdated prescriptions, missing unit of measurements, and ambiguous names of medications that could not be read by both community pharmacists and researcher) (N = 122) of which only one, one, 394, 13, five, and 27 were identified by pharmacists, respectively. Among 441 DRPs identified by pharmacists, 406 were resolved by them. Most DRPs were self-resolved by pharmacists themselves (367/406), while patients were also sent back to the prescriber (13/406), and some dispensation of medications to patients were refused (9/406). Conclusion Among the DRPs frequently observed in the sample of community prescriptions, the community pharmacists identified significantly fewer DRPs in relation to each type identified by the researcher, and pharmacists missed some, including incomplete prescriptions, that had potential to harm. Systematic and sustainable training of pharmacists on performing a preliminary prescription review and continuous education programs must be implemented to improve community pharmacist dispensing practices in this community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tharmalinga Sharma Jegath Janani
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Soratha Mawatha, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka
- Ministry of Health, Nutrition & Indigenous Medicine, Baddegama Wimalawansa Thero Mawatha, Colombo, Sri Lanka
| | - Rafaideen Risla
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Soratha Mawatha, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka
| | - Lelwala Guruge Thushani Shanika
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Soratha Mawatha, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka
| | - Nithushi Rajitha Samaranayake
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Soratha Mawatha, Nugegoda, Sri Lanka
- Corresponding author at: Department of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Sri Jayewardenepura, Sri Soratha Mawatha, Nugegoda 10250, Sri Lanka.
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15
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Factors Related to Antibiotic Supply without a Prescription for Common Infections: A Cross-Sectional National Survey in Sri Lanka. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10060647. [PMID: 34071619 PMCID: PMC8227992 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10060647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/30/2021] [Revised: 05/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022] Open
Abstract
Inappropriate antibiotic use is a problem in Sri Lanka. We investigated pharmacy staff’s attitudes towards antibiotic supply for common infections in Sri Lanka. A self-reported cross-sectional survey was conducted among a random sample (n = 369) of pharmacies. We assessed staff’s beliefs and attitudes to antibiotic supplying for common infections (common cold and cough, sore throat, diarrhoea, wound and urinary tract infections (UTI)). Pharmacists (n = 210; 79%) and pharmacy assistants (n = 55: 21%) responded. About 30% (80/265) had supplied antibiotics without a prescription for common infections, including common cold (15.8%), sore throat (13.6%) and diarrhoea (10.2%). Overall, pharmacists were less likely to supply than non-pharmacists. Pharmacy staff with more positive beliefs about their professional competency to supply and monitor antibiotic use were more likely to supply antibiotics without a prescription for common cold (Adj.OR = 1.08; 95% CI: 1.01–1.15; p = 0.032), wound infections (Adj. OR = 1.06; 95% CI: 1.00–1.13; p = 0.059), and UTI (Adj.OR = 1.07; 95% CI: 0.99–1.15; p = 0.097). Pharmacy staff who believed in the effectiveness of antibiotics against common infections were more likely to supply antibiotics for common infections. Supply of antibiotics without a prescription was associated with staff’s beliefs about antibiotics’ effectiveness and their professional competency. Our findings could be used to strengthen regulatory strategies to improve practice.
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16
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Brata C, Halim SV, Setiawan E, Presley B, Wibowo YI, Schneider CR. The competency of Indonesian pharmacy students in handling a self-medication request for a cough: a simulated patient study. Pharm Pract (Granada) 2021; 19:2269. [PMID: 34035868 PMCID: PMC8118600 DOI: 10.18549/pharmpract.2021.2.2269] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2021] [Accepted: 04/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Cough is a common symptom for which people frequently present to community pharmacies. Previous articles from developing countries have shown that the provision of self-medication consultation for cough in community pharmacies were suboptimal, with knowledge deficiency being a contributing factor. However, little is known regarding the ability of pharmacy students in handling self-medication consultations in developing countries. Objectives To measure the competency of Indonesian pharmacy students in providing self-medication consultations for patients with chronic cough and to identify factors associated with the provision of appropriate advice. Method This study is a cross-sectional study. A simulated patient method using a product and a symptom-based request of chronic cough was used in students from a pharmacy school in Indonesia. The nature and amount of information gathered and advice provided by pharmacy students were noted and audio-recorded. A logistic regression analysis was performed to identify factors associated with the provision of appropriate advice. Results The information gathered by participating students was not comprehensive. The most common types of information gathered were related to the nature and duration of the cough. Information relating to accompanying symptoms, medications, and allergies was gathered in less than 60% of the participating students for both product and symptom based scenarios. The appropriate advice of direct medical referral was provided in 54% and 56% of the 183 participating students for the product and symptom-based request scenarios respectively. Asking about symptom duration and prior medical conditions were positively associated with the provision of appropriate advice in the symptom and product based requests respectively. Conclusion Student competency in self-medication consultation for chronic cough needs to be improved. Appropriate information-gathering is a predictor of appropriate advice. Further qualitative research identifying factors affecting students' competence in providing self-medication consultation is required, so that suitable interventions are developed and implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Cecilia Brata
- PhD. Lecturer. Centre of Medicine Information and Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Surabaya. Surabaya (Indonesia).
| | - Steven V Halim
- Mpharm. Lecturer. Centre of Medicine Information and Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Surabaya. Surabaya (Indonesia).
| | - Eko Setiawan
- MSc (Clin Pharm). Lecturer. Centre of Medicine Information and Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Surabaya. Surabaya (Indonesia).
| | - Bobby Presley
- Mpharm. Lecturer. Centre of Medicine Information and Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Surabaya. Surabaya (Indonesia).
| | - Yosi I Wibowo
- PhD. Senior Lecturer. Centre of Medicine Information and Pharmaceutical Care, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Surabaya. Surabaya (Indonesia).
| | - Carl R Schneider
- PhD. Senior Lecturer. School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Sydney. Sydney (Australia).
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17
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Zawahir S, Lekamwasam S, Halvorsen KH, Rose G, Aslani P. Self-medication Behavior with antibiotics: a national cross-sectional survey in Sri Lanka. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2021; 19:1341-1352. [PMID: 33792479 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2021.1911647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibiotic self-medication is common in low- and middle-income countries. This study aimed to evaluate the Sri Lankan public's knowledge about and attitudes toward antibiotic use and self-medication, and factors associated with self-medication. METHODS A national cross-sectional, interviewer-administered, survey of a random household sample (N = 1100) was conducted. Factor analysis of the attitudinal items was conducted to investigate the factors associated with antibiotic self-medication. RESULTS A response rate of ninety-one percent (n = 998) responded. Knowledge about antibiotics was poor (mean = 12.5; SD = 3.5; (scale 0-27)). Half had previously used an antibiotic once in the past three months. About 11% (108/998) had self-medicated the last time they took antibiotics; mostly obtained from a pharmacy (82%; 89/108). Three attitudinal factors were obtained, explaining 56.1% of the variance. Respondents were less likely to self-medicate if they did not support ease of access to antibiotics from pharmacies (p< 0.001) and situational use of antibiotics (p= 0.001); supported appropriate use of antibiotics (p= 0.003); and had greater knowledge about prescription requirements for antibiotics (p= 0.004). CONCLUSION There is limited knowledge about, and a high rate of self-medication with antibiotics.Factors contributing to self-medication could be addressed with appropriate public education campaigns, and policy changes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shukry Zawahir
- , The University of Sydney School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, NSW, Australia.,Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine and Health, The University of Sydney, NSW, Australia
| | - Sarath Lekamwasam
- Population Health Research Centre, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ruhuna, Galle, Sri Lanka
| | - Kjell H Halvorsen
- Department of Pharmacy, UiT the Arctic University of Norway, Tromsø, Norway
| | - Grenville Rose
- Centre for Social Research in Health, The University of New South Wales, NSW, Australia
| | - Parisa Aslani
- , The University of Sydney School of Pharmacy, Faculty of Medicine and Health, NSW, Australia
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18
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Malik UR, Chang J, Hashmi F, Atif N, Basir H, Hayat K, Khan FU, Kabba JA, Lambojon K, Fang Y. A Simulated Client Exploration of Nonprescription Dispensing of Antibiotics at Drugstores for Pediatric Acute Diarrhea and Upper Respiratory Infection in Lahore, Pakistan. Infect Drug Resist 2021; 14:1129-1140. [PMID: 33790584 PMCID: PMC7997541 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s301812] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/23/2021] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The excessive consumption of antibiotics is a significant contributor to antimicrobial resistance, especially in children. Children are often advised antibiotics for viral infections. In developing countries, drugstores are a prime source of easy access to nonprescription antibiotics. Moreover, in Pakistan, their irrational use is an "everyday routine". The study, therefore, aimed to evaluate the dispensing of nonprescription antibiotics to children. METHODS Using pediatric acute diarrhea and acute upper respiratory infection as disease scenarios, a simulated client, cross-sectional study was conducted in Lahore, Pakistan, to explore the antibiotics' ease of availability at both categories of drugstores (pharmacies and medical stores) from November 1st, 2019 to January 31st, 2020. Chi-square (χ 2) test was used to compare the differences in practices of different categorical variables. Multivariable logistic regression was applied to analyze the association of various factors with antibiotics dispensing. RESULTS Antibiotics were dispensed without prescription in 456 (59%) of 773 simulated visits out of which 425 (93.2%) were dispensed on the advice of the drugstore staff. A qualified pharmacist was available in only 164 (21.2%) cases. Of the 386 visits for acute diarrhea and 387 for acute upper respiratory infection, nonprescription antibiotic dispensing occurred in 259 (67.1%) and 197 (50.9%) visits, respectively. There were considerable differences (p-value <0.05) in the practices and antibiotics dispensing between each disease scenario presented. Moreover, antibiotics were less commonly dispensed at pharmacist-supervised drugstores compared to unsupervised ones. CONCLUSION Overall, inappropriate dispensing practices were prevalent to a large extent at the drugstores, and antibiotics were effortlessly obtainable without prescription. The quality of the services provided, especially by the non-pharmacist staff, was also not satisfactory. Therefore, the Drug Regulating Authority of Pakistan must enforce strict implementation of drug laws at the drugstores without delay, especially in major cities to help curb the felonious use of antibiotics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Usman Rashid Malik
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China’s Western Technology Innovation Harbour, Xi’an, 710000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Jie Chang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China’s Western Technology Innovation Harbour, Xi’an, 710000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Furqan Hashmi
- University College of Pharmacy, University of the Punjab, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Naveel Atif
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China’s Western Technology Innovation Harbour, Xi’an, 710000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Hareem Basir
- Royal Albert Edward Infirmary, Wigan, WN1 2NN, UK
| | - Khezar Hayat
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China’s Western Technology Innovation Harbour, Xi’an, 710000, People’s Republic of China
- Institute of Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences, Lahore, 54000, Pakistan
| | - Faiz Ullah Khan
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China’s Western Technology Innovation Harbour, Xi’an, 710000, People’s Republic of China
| | - John Alimamy Kabba
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China’s Western Technology Innovation Harbour, Xi’an, 710000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Krizzia Lambojon
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China’s Western Technology Innovation Harbour, Xi’an, 710000, People’s Republic of China
| | - Yu Fang
- Department of Pharmacy Administration and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Center for Drug Safety and Policy Research, Xi’an Jiaotong University, Xi’an, 710061, People’s Republic of China
- Research Institute for Drug Safety and Monitoring, Institute of Pharmaceutical Science and Technology, China’s Western Technology Innovation Harbour, Xi’an, 710000, People’s Republic of China
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19
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Wang J, Gong Y, Wu J, Jiang N, Chen Z, Yin X. Antibiotic dispensing patterns and patient interventions for upper respiratory tract infections by hospitals and retail pharmacies: A cross-sectional study based on standardized patients. Soc Sci Med 2021; 272:113729. [PMID: 33556812 DOI: 10.1016/j.socscimed.2021.113729] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Revised: 12/19/2020] [Accepted: 01/25/2021] [Indexed: 11/18/2022]
Abstract
Hospitals and retail pharmacies are the two main sources of antibiotics for the public. This study aimed to compare the antibiotics dispensing patterns between these two types of institutions, and to assess the impact of patient behavior on the dispensing of antibiotics. A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Hubei Province, China, from June 2015 to August 2016. Standardized patients were recruited to simulate upper respiratory tract infections (URTI), presenting three different patient states to physicians and pharmacy staff. We collected a total of 378 cases in hospital and investigated 300 retail pharmacies. Hospitals dispensed a higher proportion of antibiotics compared with retail pharmacies in the cases of no patient intervention (59.50% vs. 33.00%). In the hospitals, compared with non-intervention group, the relative risks of antibiotics dispensing in patient request group was 1.12 (95%CI: 0.93-1.35) and that in patient knowledge expressing group was 0.59 (95%CI: 0.44-0.78). In retail pharmacies, 44.78% of the pharmacies changed the antibiotic dispensing behavior after the patient requested it, whereas 32.32% of the pharmacies no longer sold antibiotics after the patient expressed knowledge. β-Lactam broad-spectrum antibiotics were the most widely distributed drugs in both hospitals and retail pharmacies. The pharmaceutical services provided by hospitals was significantly superior to that of retail pharmacies (P < 0.05). The irrational use of antibiotics is common in patients with URTI both in hospitals and retail pharmacies and is susceptible to patients' influence. The quality of pharmaceutical services in both institutions needs to be improved.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jing Wang
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Yanhong Gong
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Jianxiong Wu
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Nan Jiang
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Zhenyuan Chen
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China
| | - Xiaoxv Yin
- Department of Social Medicine and Health Management, School of Public Health, Tongji Medical College, Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, Hubei, PR China.
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20
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Evaluation of Antibiotic Supply Decisions by Community Pharmacists in Thailand: A Vignette Study. Antibiotics (Basel) 2021; 10:antibiotics10020154. [PMID: 33546476 PMCID: PMC7913721 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics10020154] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/27/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
In Thailand, antibiotics are available lawfully from community pharmacies without a prescription. Inappropriate supply of antibiotics from Thai community pharmacies to the public for common, self-limiting diseases has been reported. The study aimed to evaluate the appropriateness of antibiotics selected by community pharmacists in Thailand in response to vignettes. A cross-sectional survey of community pharmacists across Thailand was conducted using a self-administered questionnaire including nine case vignettes with three conditions, namely upper respiratory infections (URIs), acute diarrhoea and simple wounds. A total of 208 questionnaires were completed and analysed (20.8% response rate). In response to vignettes relating to URIs, 50.8% of pharmacist recommendations were not in accordance with antibiotic guidelines. Inappropriate recommendations for diarrhoea and wound cases were 20.8% and 16.7%, respectively. A higher proportion of younger pharmacists, those with less experience, Pharm. D. graduate pharmacists, employee pharmacists and those pharmacists who worked in a chain pharmacy were more likely to recommend appropriate antibiotic treatment in response to the vignettes (p < 0.05). These findings will be useful to promote educational interventions for community pharmacists regarding common infectious disease management in order to improve appropriate antibiotic use.
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21
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Qadeer G, Amin MEK. Perspectives on an amended law addressing pharmacists' availability in community pharmacies. J Eval Clin Pract 2021; 27:151-157. [PMID: 32319720 DOI: 10.1111/jep.13405] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2020] [Revised: 04/05/2020] [Accepted: 04/06/2020] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE, AIMS, AND OBJECTIVES Little attention has been given to perceptions of pharmacist availability and role in the community setting following policy changes. The Pakistani model is particularly interesting as it encompasses three different pharmacy practice licensure types with major differences in credentials, training, and role. Guided by the theory of planned behaviour (TPB), this study examined factors associated with the availability of pharmacists in the community setting in Pakistan following the implementation of a new policy regulating pharmacist presence in community pharmacies. METHODS Fifteen participants were interviewed in three Pakistani cities (Islamabad, Lahore, and Peshawar). Those included pharmacy licence holders (types A, B, and C), non-pharmacist owners and a pharmacist inspector who were purposively sampled to assure variance in education, gender, time in practice, and geographic location. Directed content analysis was performed based on the TPB framework. Description of themes came after discussions among the two authors. RESULTS Findings indicated a discrepancy between participants about the value of having a pharmacist present with pharmacists showing more appreciation of the value they would provide. Participants felt that the new policy is attempting to change a norm that has existed for a long time. They also pointed to logistical challenges in making a pharmacist available including the feasibility of having a pharmacist present, the financial burden of hiring a pharmacist, and difficulty in enforcing the law uniformly across different geographical areas. Participants were concerned that some type A licence holders sensed that practicing in the community setting and the act of selling medications was beneath their social status as pharmacists. CONCLUSION A set of factors contribute to the availability of pharmacists in community pharmacies in Pakistan. The change in law should be supplemented with other interventions that contribute to making well-trained pharmacy personnel available for serving patrons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gohar Qadeer
- College of Pharmacy, Natural and Health Sciences, Manchester University, Fort Wayne, Indiana, USA
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22
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AlRukban M, AlRuthia Y, Almasaoud M, Al-Owairdhi M, Alsouan A, Alrabiah A, Alshaikh A, Alsuhaibani A, Aleidan A. Community Pharmacists' Views of the Enforced Antibiotics Dispensing Law and Its Impact on Oral Antibiotics Sales in Saudi Arabia. Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2020; 13:2899-2907. [PMID: 33335435 PMCID: PMC7737627 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s278404] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/17/2020] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective(s) The aim of this study was to explore community pharmacists’ views toward the antibiotics dispensing law that was enforced in May 2018 and bans the sale of antibiotics without a prescription in community pharmacy settings in Saudi Arabia. Moreover, the potential impact of the law enforcement on the sales of oral antibiotics in Saudi Arabia was also explored. Methods A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted between September 2019 and March 2020 in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. A multistage sampling technique was used to recruit community pharmacists from different districts. Pharmacists who consented to participate and reported practicing prior to the law enforcement were interviewed about their views of the law using a 14-item newly developed questionnaire. The annual sales of oral antibiotics for the years of 2017, 2018, and 2019 were retrieved from the Saudi Food and Drug Authority (SFDA) database. Results Two hundred and eighty six pharmacists consented to participate and met the inclusion criteria. After the law enforcement, approximately 51% of the participants reported that the percentage of patients seeking antibiotics without a prescription is less than 25%. Moreover, the majority (87.41%) reported a drop in the sales of antibiotics. Additionally, about 90% of the participants believed that the rate of inappropriate use of antibiotics will decrease as a result of the law enforcement. About 41% of the participants reported that the law has negatively impacted their pharmacies’ profits. The sales of oral antibiotics have seen a 16.6% drop in the year of 2019 as compared to 2017. Conclusion The antibiotics dispensing law is favorably perceived among community pharmacists in Saudi Arabia despite some concerns about its impact on their sales. Exploring different business models that delink the profits from the volume of antibiotics sales is necessary for this vital industry to thrive.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohammed AlRukban
- Department of Family Medicine, College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yazed AlRuthia
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.,Pharmacoeconomics Research Unit, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Majed Almasaoud
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Mohammad Al-Owairdhi
- Department of Pharmacoeconomics and Drug Pricing, Saudi Food and Drug Authority, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - Anwar Alsouan
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | | | - Alan Aleidan
- College of Medicine, King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
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23
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Chen J, Sidibi AM, Shen X, Dao K, Maiga A, Xie Y, Hesketh T. Lack of antibiotic knowledge and misuse of antibiotics by medical students in Mali: a cross-sectional study. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2020; 19:797-804. [PMID: 33251896 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2021.1857731] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/24/2022]
Abstract
Objectives: Misuse of antibiotics, especially in low-and-middle-income countries is a major contributor to antimicrobial resistance. Medical students are antibiotic consumers and prescribers in the future. This study aimed to assess antibiotic knowledge and utilization among medical students in the Republic of Mali, and to determine the relationship between knowledge and health-seeking behavior in relation to antibiotic use.Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted in the only public medical university in Mali. The questionnaire explored knowledge about antibiotics of medical students, and health behaviors for self-limiting illness. Data were analyzed in SPSS.Results: A total of 446 medical students completed the questionnaire. The average knowledge score was 4.12 out of 10. Students with clinical experience performed higher (4.79 vs 3.74, p< 0.01); 391(87.7%) medical students reported experience of self-limiting diseases in the past year. Of these 197(50.4%) went to see a doctor, 160 (81.2%) of whom were prescribed antibiotics: 151 medical students self-treated, with 121(80.1%) using antibiotics.Conclusions: This study shows poor knowledge and massive misuse of antibiotics among medical students in Mali. Promoting education on the mechanism of antibiotics, antimicrobial resistance and rational antibiotic use among medical students should be a priority in the medical school curriculum.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Chen
- Centre for Global Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | | | - Xiaohui Shen
- Institute for Global Health, University College London,London, UK
| | - Kalo Dao
- Department of Tropical Infectious Diseases, University of Science, Technique and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Alain Maiga
- Department of Tropical Infectious Diseases, University of Science, Technique and Technologies of Bamako, Bamako, Mali
| | - Ying Xie
- Centre for Global Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Therese Hesketh
- Centre for Global Health, Zhejiang University School of Medicine, Hangzhou, China.,Institute for Global Health, University College London,London, UK
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24
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Tawfik AG, Abdelaziz AI, Omran M, Rabie KA, Ahmed ASF, Abou-Ali A. Assessment of community pharmacy management towards self-medication requests of tetracyclines for pregnant women: a simulated client study in Upper Egypt. Int J Clin Pharm 2020; 43:969-979. [PMID: 33231814 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-020-01203-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/26/2020] [Accepted: 11/15/2020] [Indexed: 10/22/2022]
Abstract
Background Self-medication is a worldwide phenomenon of using medications without medical supervision. It is even more prevalent in low-income countries, where individuals seek community pharmacies because of accessibility and affordability. Although self-medication is associated with an increased risk of medication errors, few studies have been conducted to examine the quality of community pharmacy management towards self-medicating individuals of at-risk populations such as pregnant women. Objective We sought to investigate the quality of community pharmacies management of self-medication requests of tetracyclines for pregnant women. Setting The study was conducted in community pharmacies in Minya, Egypt. Methods A random sample of 150 community pharmacies was chosen from the urban areas of five districts of Minya, Egypt. To evaluate the actual practice, a simulated client was trained to visit pharmacies and purchase doxycycline for a pregnant woman. In a random subset of the sampled pharmacies (n = 100), interviews were conducted to evaluate pharmacy staff knowledge and attitudes regarding information gathering and dispensing practice. Main outcome measure Dispensing rate of doxycycline for pregnant women. Results From simulated client visits, almost all pharmacy staff (99.1%) dispensed doxycycline without requesting a prescription or collecting any information. About 25% of staff members did not abstain from dispensing even after knowing about pregnancy. On the other hand, most interviewed pharmacy staff (91.5%) reported that they ask about pregnancy before dispensing. Conclusion Our findings show that the current community pharmacy practice puts pregnant women at high risk of experiencing harmful self-medication outcomes. Therefore, strict legislative measures and pharmacy education programs should be considered in Egypt to lessen inappropriate dispensing rates in community pharmacies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdelrahman G Tawfik
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Deraya University, Minia, Egypt
| | - Abdullah I Abdelaziz
- Department of Pharmaceutics, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minia, Egypt.,Department of Pharmacy Systems, Outcomes and Policy, University of Illinois at Chicago, 833 S. Wood St. MC 871, Chicago, IL, 60612, USA
| | | | | | - Al-Shaimaa F Ahmed
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, Faculty of Pharmacy, Minia University, Minia, Egypt.
| | - Adel Abou-Ali
- Risk Management and Benefit Risk, Astellas Pharma, Northbrook, IL, USA
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25
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Batista AD, A. Rodrigues D, Figueiras A, Zapata-Cachafeiro M, Roque F, Herdeiro MT. Antibiotic Dispensation without a Prescription Worldwide: A Systematic Review. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:E786. [PMID: 33171743 PMCID: PMC7694985 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9110786] [Citation(s) in RCA: 47] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 10/31/2020] [Accepted: 11/06/2020] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Antibiotic resistance still remains a major global public health problem and the dispensing of antibiotics without a prescription at community pharmacies is an important driver of this. MEDLINE, Pubmed and EMBASE databases were used to search and identify studies reporting the dispensing of non-prescribed antibiotics in community pharmacies or drugstores that sell drugs for human use, by applying pharmacy interviews/questionnaires methods and/or simulated patient methods. Of the 4683 studies retrieved, 85 were included, of which 59 (69.4%) were published in low-and middle-income countries. Most of the papers (83.3%) presented a percentage of antibiotic dispensing without a prescription above 60.0%. Sixty-one studies evaluated the active substance and the most sold antibiotics without a prescription were amoxicillin (86.9%), azithromycin (39.3%), ciprofloxacin (39.3%), and amoxicillin-clavulanic acid (39.3%). Among the 65 articles referencing the diseases/symptoms, this practice was shown to be mostly associated with respiratory system problems (100.0%), diarrhea (40.0%), and Urinary Tract Infections (30.8%). In sum, antibiotics are frequently dispensed without a prescription in many countries and can thus have an important impact on the development of resistance at a global level. Our results indicate the high need to implement educational and/or regulatory/administrative strategies in most countries, aiming to reduce this practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana Daniela Batista
- Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal;
| | - Daniela A. Rodrigues
- Research Unit for Inland Development, Polytechnic Institute of Guarda (UDI/IPG), 6300-559 Guarda, Portugal; (D.A.R.); (F.R.)
| | - Adolfo Figueiras
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15702 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (A.F.); (M.Z.-C.)
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBER Epidemiology and Public Health-CIBERESP), 28001 Madrid, Spain
- Health Research Institute of Santiago de Compostela (IDIS), 15702 Santiago de Compostela, Spain
| | - Maruxa Zapata-Cachafeiro
- Department of Preventive Medicine and Public Health, University of Santiago de Compostela, 15702 Santiago de Compostela, Spain; (A.F.); (M.Z.-C.)
- Consortium for Biomedical Research in Epidemiology and Public Health (CIBER Epidemiology and Public Health-CIBERESP), 28001 Madrid, Spain
| | - Fátima Roque
- Research Unit for Inland Development, Polytechnic Institute of Guarda (UDI/IPG), 6300-559 Guarda, Portugal; (D.A.R.); (F.R.)
- Health Sciences Research Centre, University of Beira Interior (CICS-UBI), 6200-506 Covilhã, Portugal
| | - Maria Teresa Herdeiro
- Institute of Biomedicine (iBiMED), Department of Medical Sciences, University of Aveiro, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
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26
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Nye C, Watson T, Kubasiewicz L, Raw Z, Burden F. No Prescription, No Problem! A Mixed-Methods Study of Antimicrobial Stewardship Relating to Working Equines in Drug Retail Outlets of Northern India. Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9060295. [PMID: 32498385 PMCID: PMC7344509 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9060295] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2020] [Revised: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 05/29/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Multidrug resistance (MDR) is already occurring among some equids in India. Donkeys and mules are a mobile species moving between regions and international borders, often populating areas of India where private community pharmacies, or medical stores, are the primary healthcare provider for both humans and animals. This article highlights how the capacities of drug retail outlet workers might affect their antibiotic dispensing practices, particularly in relation to donkeys and mules, in order to consider how this might impact the development of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) on a wider scale. A mixed-methods approach was implemented using patient simulation method (n = 28), semi-structured interviews (SSIs) (n = 23), focus group discussions (FGDs) with veterinary practitioners and non-governmental organisation animal health workers (n = 2 FGDs), and participant observation. Fewer than 48 per cent of drug retail outlet workers admitted to having had any formal training in pharmaceuticals at all, while 78 per cent reported having no formal training in animal-related pharmaceuticals. Moreover, 35 per cent of all participants sold antibiotics without a prescription, unprompted and without specifically being asked for antibiotics. Of the antibiotics dispensed, only 21 per cent were correctly dispensed for the symptoms presented, and all dosages dispensed were incorrect (underdosed). Furthermore, 43 per cent of drug retail outlet workers interviewed believe that some antibiotics can be legally dispensed without a prescription. Equine owners in northern India are frequently being sold antibiotics without a prescription and, in most cases, with incorrect diagnoses, treatment choice, and dosage. A substantial gap in capacities exists amongst Drug Retail Outlet (DRO) workers, with few being sufficiently qualified or trained to dispense antibiotics to animal owners. The study highlights the need for further training of private DRO workers as well as knowledge extension and awareness training for both DRO workers and animal owners regarding antimicrobial resistance and its potential impact upon livelihoods. It also illustrates the need to identify a balance whereby greater enforcement of regulation at all levels is implemented, while at the same time maintaining sufficient access to medicine for rural populations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Caroline Nye
- Centre for Rural Policy Research (CRPR), The University of Exeter, EX4 4PJ Devon, UK
- Correspondence: ; Tel.: +44-1392-72-2438
| | - Tamlin Watson
- The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth, EX10 0NU Devon, UK; (T.W.); (L.K.); (Z.R.); (F.B.)
| | - Laura Kubasiewicz
- The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth, EX10 0NU Devon, UK; (T.W.); (L.K.); (Z.R.); (F.B.)
| | - Zoe Raw
- The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth, EX10 0NU Devon, UK; (T.W.); (L.K.); (Z.R.); (F.B.)
| | - Faith Burden
- The Donkey Sanctuary, Sidmouth, EX10 0NU Devon, UK; (T.W.); (L.K.); (Z.R.); (F.B.)
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27
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Knowledge, Attitude and Practice of Community Pharmacists Regarding Antibiotic Use and Infectious Diseases: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Hungary (KAPPhA-HU). Antibiotics (Basel) 2020; 9:antibiotics9020041. [PMID: 31973119 PMCID: PMC7168197 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics9020041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2019] [Revised: 01/14/2020] [Accepted: 01/17/2020] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
One of the key drivers for the emergence and spread of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is non-prudent antibiotic (AB) use, which results in selection pressure towards relevant bacteria. Community pharmacists have pivotal roles in facilitating the prudent use of ABs that have been demonstrated by several studies worldwide. The aim of our present study was to evaluate the knowledge, attitude and practice of community pharmacists related to AB use and infectious diseases in Hungary. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was performed among community pharmacists in Hungary with the use of an anonymous, structured and pilot-tested questionnaire. Data collection ran between January 2016 and January 2018; n = 339 community pharmacists nationwide were approached with our questionnaire, out of which 192 filled out our survey. Hungarian pharmacists have appropriate knowledge regarding ABs and antimicrobial therapy, and they realize the public health impact of the growing AMR. Twenty-five percent of participants admitted to giving out non-prescription ABs at least once in the last year. The age and presence of board-certified specializations were shown to be significant factors of self-perceived knowledge and professional attitudes. Educational strategies and interventions specifically aimed at focusing on identified shortcomings and changing certain attitudes could substantially improve AB dispensing and AB use, in addition to minimizing resistance.
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Alrasheedy AA, Alsalloum MA, Almuqbil FA, Almuzaini MA, Aba Alkhayl BS, Albishri AS, Alharbi FF, Alharbi SR, Alodhayb AK, Alfadl AA, Godman B, Hill R, Anaam MS. The impact of law enforcement on dispensing antibiotics without prescription: a multi-methods study from Saudi Arabia. Expert Rev Anti Infect Ther 2019; 18:87-97. [PMID: 31834825 DOI: 10.1080/14787210.2020.1705156] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Background: Dispensing of antibiotics without a prescription (DAwP) has been widely practised among community pharmacies in Saudi Arabia despite being illegal. However, in May 2018, the law and regulations were enforced alongside fines. Consequently, we wanted to evaluate the impact of these changes.Methods: A study was conducted among 116 community pharmacies in two phases. A pre-law enforcement phase between December 2017 and March 2018 and a post-law enforcement phase one year later. Each phase consisted of a cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey and a simulated client method (SCM) approach. In the SCM, clients presented with either pharyngitis or urinary tract infections (UTI). In SCM, for each phase, all 116 pharmacies were visited with one of the scenarios.Results: Before the law enforcement, 70.7% of community pharmacists reported that DAwP was common with 96.6% and 87.7% of participating pharmacies dispensed antibiotics without a prescription for pharyngitis and UTI respectively. After the law enforcement, only 12.9% reported that DAwP is still a common practice, with only 12.1% and 5.2% dispensing antibiotics without prescriptions for pharyngitis and UTI respectively.Conclusion: law enforcement was effective. However, there is still further scope for improvement. This could include further educational activities with pharmacists, physicians and the public.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Muath A Alsalloum
- Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Feras A Almuqbil
- Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | | | | | - Ahmed S Albishri
- Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Faisal F Alharbi
- Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Saleh R Alharbi
- Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | | | - Abubakr A Alfadl
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
| | - Brian Godman
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow, UK.,Health Economics Centre, University of Liverpool Management School, Liverpool, UK.,Division of Clinical Pharmacology, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital Huddinge, Stockholm, Sweden.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Ruaraidh Hill
- Evidence synthesis, Health Services Research, University of Liverpool, Liverpool, UK
| | - Mohammed S Anaam
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Unaizah College of Pharmacy, Qassim University, Qassim, Saudi Arabia
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Koji EM, Gebretekle GB, Tekle TA. Practice of over-the-counter dispensary of antibiotics for childhood illnesses in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia: a simulated patient encounter study. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control 2019; 8:119. [PMID: 31346460 PMCID: PMC6636089 DOI: 10.1186/s13756-019-0571-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2019] [Accepted: 07/04/2019] [Indexed: 11/10/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Dispensary and use of antibiotics without prescriptions from qualified providers is a common practice in countries with poor pharmaceutical regulations and where due focus is not given to rational use. This practice is a main factor for the spread of antimicrobial resistance due to its non-reliance on pre-treatment microbiologic work-up, improper indications and dosing errors. This study was conducted to determine the rate of over-the-counter dispensary of antibiotics for common childhood illnesses among privately owned medicine retail outlets in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Methods Pre-determined simulated patient visits depicting common childhood illnesses were employed to request antibiotics without prescriptions. A simple random sampling was used to select medicine retail outlets within Addis Ababa city. Trained data collectors filled structured data forms (including antibiotic requested, reasons for denial of dispense and details enquired by pharmacist) shortly after each patient enactment. Multi-variable logistic regression analysis was employed to explore factors associated with over-the-counter sales of antibiotics. Results A total of 262 simulated encounters were surveyed. Of the 262 verbal antibiotic requests, 63.4% were dispensed. Close to 60% of encounters were accompanied by questions about a doctor's visit or the child's symptomatology while a past history of drug allergies was enquired in only 11.1% of visits. Over-the-counter dispensary was more likely when dispenser queried about symptoms was made (AOR: 2.412, 95%CI: 1.236, 4.706), for requests for more than one antibiotics (AOR: 2.988, 95%CI: 1.258, 7.095) and for simulated patient demands for oral antibiotics for children with acute diarrhea (AOR: 3.297, 95%CI: 1.248, 8.712) and parenteral antibiotics for those reported to receive in-patient care for pneumonia (4.516, 95% CI: 1.720, 11.857). Conclusions The prevalence of providing antibiotics over-the-counter for pediatric illnesses in Addis Ababa is markedly high. Further studies into factors encouraging this malpractice are required. Enhancing education of personnel dispensing antibiotics and strict enforcement of national regulations are needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eyosait Mekonnen Koji
- 1Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | | | - Tinsae Alemayehu Tekle
- 1Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Sakeena MHF, Bennett AA, McLachlan AJ. The Need to Strengthen the Role of the Pharmacist in Sri Lanka: Perspectives. PHARMACY 2019; 7:E54. [PMID: 31195755 PMCID: PMC6631506 DOI: 10.3390/pharmacy7020054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2019] [Revised: 05/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
The role of the pharmacist in healthcare has evolved greatly over the last half-century, from dispensing to providing direct patient-oriented activities not associated with dispensing. However, pharmacist-led healthcare services in Sri Lanka must undergo reform to fully take advantage of their expertise and training in medicine management and related outcomes in Sri Lankan patients. As befits a profession's role development and value, professional and educational standards for pharmacists need ongoing development and growth. Currently, university curricula and continuing professional education in Sri Lanka require further development and optimisation to provide the theoretical and practical knowledge and skills regarding quality use of medicines and patient-oriented care. Furthermore, pharmacists' roles in Sri Lankan hospital and community pharmacist settings need to be recognised and should include the pharmacist as an integral part of the multidisciplinary healthcare team in Sri Lanka. Studies from developed countries and some developing countries have demonstrated that expanded pharmacists' roles have had a significant positive cost-effective impact on the population's health. Therefore, the availability of qualified Sri Lankan pharmacists trained to deliver expanded professional services accompanied by greater pharmacist integration into healthcare delivery is crucially important to ensure quality use of medicines within the Sri Lankan healthcare system and optimise the medication-related needs of Sri Lankans.
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Affiliation(s)
- M H F Sakeena
- Department of Pharmacy, Faculty of Allied Health Sciences, University of Peradeniya, Peradeniya KY 20400, Sri Lanka.
- Sydney Pharmacy School, The University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia.
| | | | - Andrew J McLachlan
- Sydney Pharmacy School, The University of Sydney, New South Wales 2006, Australia.
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Zawahir S, Lekamwasam S, Aslani P. A cross-sectional national survey of community pharmacy staff: Knowledge and antibiotic provision. PLoS One 2019; 14:e0215484. [PMID: 31022197 PMCID: PMC6483176 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0215484] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/20/2018] [Accepted: 04/02/2019] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pharmacists’ knowledge about the clinical and legal aspects of antibiotic supply has an impact on appropriate dispensing practice. There are limited studies evaluating community pharmacists’ knowledge of antibiotic dispensing in low and middle-income countries, including Sri Lanka. We aimed (i) to evaluate community pharmacy staff’s self-reported knowledge about antibiotics and dispensing behaviour of antibiotics without a prescription, and (ii) to identify possible factors impacting their antibiotic dispensing behaviour. Methods A cross-sectional survey was conducted among a random sample (n = 369) of community pharmacies across all nine provinces in Sri Lanka using a self-administered questionnaire on their antibiotic knowledge and dispensing practice. Data were analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics including; t-test, one-way ANOVA or chi-square test, and binary and multiple logistic regression. Results A total of 265 pharmacy staff (210 (79%) pharmacists and 55 (21%) assistants) responded. Overall mean antibiotic knowledge score was 26.1 (SD 3.9; range 1–33, max possible score 34). The overall mean knowledge score t(263) = 2.41, p = 0.017, specific knowledge about antibiotic resistance (ABR) t(262) = 4.98, p = 0.021 and legal aspects of antibiotic dispensing χ2(1, N = 265) = 8.55, p = 0.003) were significantly higher among pharmacists than assistants. One in every three pharmacy staff reported that they dispensed antibiotics without a prescription on patient request; however the proportion was close to half when the patient was known to them. About 30% of the staff reported to have supplied antibiotics for minor infections in the week prior to the survey. However, there was no significant difference in the supply between pharmacists and assistants except for acute sore throat (12% vs 23%, respectively; p = 0.040). Those pharmacists with higher ABR knowledge were less likely to give out antibiotics without a prescription for viral infections in adults (Adj. OR = 0.73, 95% CI: 0.55–0.96; p = 0.027) and children (Adj. OR = 0.55, 95% CI: 0.38–0.80; p = 0.002). Awareness of legal aspects of antibiotic supply reduced overall dispensing (Adj. OR = 0.47, 95% CI: 0.30–0.75; p = 0.001), and specifically for bacterial infections in adults (Adj. OR = 0.45, 95% CI: 0.20–0.99; p = 0.047). Knowledge about antibiotic use and misuse reduced the likelihood of illegal dispensing for common cold (Adj. OR = 0.75, 95% CI: 0.60–0.94; p = 0.011) and acute diarrhoea (Adj. OR = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.58–0.99; p = 0.048). Conclusion Despite the law prohibiting provision, antibiotic dispensing without a prescription continues in community pharmacies in Sri Lanka. Appropriate antibiotic dispensing was associated with high levels of pharmacists’ legal and clinical knowledge about antibiotics. Strategies to change the current practice are urgently needed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shukry Zawahir
- The University of Sydney School of Pharmacy, Sydney, NSW, Australia
- * E-mail:
| | - Sarath Lekamwasam
- Population Health Research Centre, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ruhuna, Galle, Sri Lanka
| | - Parisa Aslani
- The University of Sydney School of Pharmacy, Sydney, NSW, Australia
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Zawahir S, Lekamwasam S, Aslani P. Community pharmacy staff's response to symptoms of common infections: a pseudo-patient study. Antimicrob Resist Infect Control 2019; 8:60. [PMID: 30976387 PMCID: PMC6439995 DOI: 10.1186/s13756-019-0510-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/19/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Inappropriate over-the-counter supply of antibiotics in pharmacies for common infections is recognised as a source of antibiotic misuse that can worsen the global burden of antibiotic resistance. Objectives To assess responses of community pharmacy staff to pseudo-patients presenting with symptoms of common infections and factors associated with such behaviour. Methods A cross-sectional pseudo-patient study was conducted from Jan-Sept 2017 among 242 community pharmacies in Sri Lanka. Each pharmacy was visited by one trained pseudo-patient who pretended to have a relative with clinical symptoms of one of four randomly selected clinical scenarios of common infections (three viral infections: acute sore throat, common cold, acute diarrhoea) and a bacterial uncomplicated urinary tract infection. Pseudo-patients requested an unspecified medicine for their condition. Interactions between the attending pharmacy staff and the pseudo-patients were audio recorded (with prior permission). Interaction data were also entered into a data collection form immediately after each visit. Results In 41% (99/242) of the interactions, an antibiotic was supplied illegally without a prescription. Of these, 66% (n = 65) were inappropriately given for the viral infections. Antibiotics were provided for 55% of the urinary tract infections, 50% of the acute diarrhoea, 42% of the sore throat and 15% of the common cold cases. Patient history was obtained in less than a quarter of the interactions. In 18% (44/242) of the interactions staff recommended the pseudo-patient to visit a physician, however, in 25% (11/44) of these interactions an antibiotic was still dispensed. Pharmacy staff advised the pseudo-patient on how to take (in 60% of the interactions where an antibiotic was supplied), when to take (47%) and when to stop (22%) the antibiotics supplied. Availability of a pharmacist reduced the likelihood of unlawful antibiotic supply (OR = 0.53, 95% CI: 0.31–0.89; P = 0.016) but not appropriate practice. Conclusions Illegal and inappropriate dispensing of antibiotics was evident in the participating community pharmacies. This may be a public health threat to Sri Lanka and beyond. Strategies to improve the appropriate dispensing practice of antibiotics among community pharmacies should be considered seriously.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shukry Zawahir
- 1The University of Sydney School of Pharmacy, Sydney, NSW Australia
| | - Sarath Lekamwasam
- 2Population Health Research Centre, Department of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University of Ruhuna, Galle, Sri Lanka
| | - Parisa Aslani
- 1The University of Sydney School of Pharmacy, Sydney, NSW Australia
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