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do Nascimento WC, Ramo LB, da Silva FF, C U Araujo M, I E de Andrade S, Bichinho KM. One-step microwave-assisted synthesis of fluorescent carbon quantum dots for determination of ascorbic acid and riboflavin in vitamin supplements. SPECTROCHIMICA ACTA. PART A, MOLECULAR AND BIOMOLECULAR SPECTROSCOPY 2024; 321:124669. [PMID: 38909560 DOI: 10.1016/j.saa.2024.124669] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/19/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/16/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
The synthesis of carbon quantum dots (CQDs) using chemical precursors with different organic groups is a strategy to improve optical properties and expand applications in several fields of research such as Analytical Chemistry. Ascorbic acid and riboflavin are widely used in human food supplementation, making quality monitoring of these vitamin supplements relevant and necessary. In this work, disodium ethylenediaminetetraacetic, sodium thiosulfate and urea were applied to obtain CQDs through a single-step microwave-assisted synthesis. The CQDs were characterized by transmission electron microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X-ray powder diffraction, infrared spectroscopy, zeta potential measurements, ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy and photoluminescence spectroscopy. The synthesized nanoparticles exhibited satisfactory and stable optical properties with luminescence at 430 nm, water solubility, and fluorescence quantum yield of 8.9 %. They were applied in the quantification of ascorbic acid and riboflavin in vitamin supplements. The fluorescence mechanisms observed were dynamic quenching for the CQDs/Cr(VI) sensor, followed by a return of fluorescence in the presence of ascorbic acid, and static quenching and inner filter effect in the interaction with riboflavin. Factorial designs 23 and 24 were used to optimize the analytical parameters. The CQDs/Cr(VI) sensor used in the determination of ascorbic acid, employing an on-off-on strategy, resulted in a linear range of 0.5 to 50 µg mL-1 and a limit of detection of 0.15 µg mL-1. The ratiometric fluorescence used in the determination of riboflavin resulted in a linear range of 0.1 to 7 µg mL-1 and a limit of detection of 0.09 µg mL-1. The analytical results for ascorbic acid were compared to the reference method of the Brazilian pharmacopeia, showing accuracy and precision according to the Brazilian Health Regulation Agency. Therefore, the synthesized CQDs were used to determine ascorbic acid and riboflavin in vitamin supplements, and the application of this nanomaterial can be expanded to different analytes and matrices, using simple and low-cost analysis techniques.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wallis C do Nascimento
- Universidade Federal Da Paraíba, Centro de Ciências Exatas e Da Natureza, Departamento de Química, 58051-900 João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brasil.
| | - Luciano B Ramo
- Universidade Federal Da Paraíba, Centro de Ciências Exatas e Da Natureza, Departamento de Química, 58051-900 João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brasil.
| | - Fausthon F da Silva
- Universidade Federal Da Paraíba, Centro de Ciências Exatas e Da Natureza, Departamento de Química, 58051-900 João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brasil.
| | - Mario C U Araujo
- Universidade Federal Da Paraíba, Centro de Ciências Exatas e Da Natureza, Departamento de Química, 58051-900 João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brasil.
| | - Stéfani I E de Andrade
- Universidade Federal Da Paraíba, Centro de Ciências Exatas e Da Natureza, Departamento de Química, 58051-900 João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brasil.
| | - Kátia M Bichinho
- Universidade Federal Da Paraíba, Centro de Ciências Exatas e Da Natureza, Departamento de Química, 58051-900 João Pessoa, Paraíba, Brasil.
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Zheng Y, Tang PK, Hu H, Ung COL. Patterns of self-medication and intention to seek pharmacist guidance among older adults during the COVID-19 pandemic in Macao: a cross-sectional study. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:2066. [PMID: 39085834 PMCID: PMC11293033 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-19453-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/16/2023] [Accepted: 07/11/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Self-medication was remarkably popular during the COVID-19 pandemic. In older populations, the risk of self-medication is higher. Pharmacists are well positioned to provide public health education and disease prevention. This study aims to explore the self-medication patterns and intention to seek pharmacist guidance among older adults in Macao. METHODS A face-to-face cross-sectional survey was subsequently performed in March-April 2023 among older adults in Macao. The questionnaire was designed based on the Theory of Planned Behavior (TPB) framework. Multiple logistic regression was used to analyze predictors of self-medication behavior and multiple linear regression analysis to determine whether the TPB construct was the predictor of older adults' intention to seek guidance from pharmacists. RESULTS A total of 412 participants completed the questionnaire. The self-medication rate among older adults in Macao was 64.2%. The most commonly used types of medications were over-the-counter and traditional Chinese medicine, mainly from government anti-pandemic packages. The majority of individuals engaged in self-medication to treat COVID-19 symptoms or prevent COVID-19 infection. The prevalent reasons for self-medication were the perceived non-seriousness of the illness. 85 years old or older and university degree were significantly associated with self-medication behavior. Older adults had moderate intention to seek pharmacist guidance on medication use. The average scores (standard deviation) were 3.43 (1.10) for Attitude, 2.69 (0.99) for Subjective Norm, 3.56 (1.04) for Perceived Behavioral Control, and 3.07 (1.43) for Intention. Attitude, Subjective Norm, and Perceived Behavioral Control were all strong predictors of intention, which explained 53% of the variance in intention. In demographic factors, age was identified as a significant predictor of intentions. CONCLUSIONS Self-medication was widely practiced in Macao during the COVID-19 pandemic. To better control the risks associated with self-medication, the role of pharmacists is paramount. Enhancing the recognition and trust of pharmacists within society, modifying pharmacy management models, and strengthening pharmacists' self-perception of their profession are all pivotal directions areas to further enhance their role.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Pou Kuan Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Hao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
- Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Regulatory Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China
| | - Carolina Oi Lam Ung
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China.
- Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China.
- Centre for Pharmaceutical Regulatory Sciences, University of Macau, Macao, China.
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Avusuglo WS, Han Q, Woldegerima WA, Asgary A, Wu J, Orbinski J, Bragazzi N, Ahmadi A, Kong JD. Assessment of bidirectional impact of stigmatization induced self-medication on COVID-19 and malaria transmissions using mathematical modeling: Nigeria as a case study. Math Biosci 2024:109249. [PMID: 39059710 DOI: 10.1016/j.mbs.2024.109249] [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: 09/08/2022] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 06/05/2024] [Indexed: 07/28/2024]
Abstract
The continual social and economic impact of infectious diseases on nations has maintained sustained attention on their control and treatment, of which self-medication has been one of the means employed by some individuals. Self-medication complicates the attempt of their control and treatment as it conflicts with some of the measures implemented by health authorities. Added to these complications is the stigmatization of individuals with some diseases in some jurisdictions. This study investigates the co-infection of COVID-19 and malaria and its related deaths and further highlights how self-medication and stigmatization add to the complexities of the fight against these two diseases using Nigeria as a study case. Using a mathematical model on COVID-19 and malaria co-infection, we address the question: to what degree does the impact of the interaction between COVID-19 and malaria amplify infections and deaths induced by both diseases via self-medication and stigmatization? We demonstrate that COVID-19 related self-medication due to misdiagnoses contributes substantially to the prevalence of disease. The control reproduction numbers for these diseases and quantification of model parameters uncertainties and sensitivities are presented.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wisdom S Avusuglo
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Canada; Laboratory for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (LIAM), Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Canada
| | - Qing Han
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Canada; Laboratory for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (LIAM), Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Canada
| | - Woldegebriel Assefa Woldegerima
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Canada; Laboratory for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (LIAM), Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Canada
| | - Ali Asgary
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Canada; Laboratory for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (LIAM), Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Canada
| | - Jianhong Wu
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Canada; Laboratory for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (LIAM), Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Canada
| | - James Orbinski
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Canada; The Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research, York University, Canada
| | - Nicola Bragazzi
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Canada; Laboratory for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (LIAM), Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Canada
| | - Ali Ahmadi
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Canada; K. N. Toosi University of Technology, Faculty of Computer Engineering, Iran
| | - Jude Dzevela Kong
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Canada; Laboratory for Industrial and Applied Mathematics (LIAM), Department of Mathematics and Statistics, York University, Canada.
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Saadat H, Shah B, Halim Z, Anwar S. Knowledge Graph-Based Convolutional Network Coupled With Sentiment Analysis Towards Enhanced Drug Recommendation. IEEE/ACM TRANSACTIONS ON COMPUTATIONAL BIOLOGY AND BIOINFORMATICS 2024; 21:983-994. [PMID: 36441898 DOI: 10.1109/tcbb.2022.3225234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Recommending appropriate drugs to patients based on their history and symptoms is a complex real-world problem. Knowing whether a drug is useful without its consumption by a variety of people followed by proper evaluation is a challenge. Modern-day recommender systems can assist in this provided they receive large data to learn. Public reviews on various drugs are available for knowledge sharing. These reviews assist in recommending the best and most appropriate option to the user. The explicit feedback underpins the entire recommender system. This work develops a novel knowledge graph-based convolutional network for recommending drugs. The knowledge graph is coupled with sentiment analysis extracted from the public reviews on drugs to enhance drug recommendations. For each drug that has been used previously, sentiments have been analyzed to determine which one has the most effective reviews. The knowledge graph effectively captures user-item relatedness by mining its associated attributes. Experiments are performed on public benchmarks and a comparison is made with closely related state-of-the-art works. Based on the obtained results, the current work performs better than the past contributions by achieving up to 98.7% Area Under Curve (AUC) score.
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Hackman HK, Annison L, Arhin RE, Adjei GO, Otu P, Arthur-Hayford E, Annison S, Borteih BB. Self-medication with antibiotics during the COVID-19 pandemic: A cross-sectional study among adults in Tema, Ghana. PLoS One 2024; 19:e0305602. [PMID: 38917123 PMCID: PMC11198810 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0305602] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/03/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Antibiotic self-medication is one of the common causes of antibiotic resistance of bacterial organisms. The COVID-19 pandemic introduced a new paradigm shift and significantly influenced healthcare behaviors, including an increase in antibiotic self-medication, which contributes to antibiotic resistance. This study was aimed at determining the prevalence of antibiotic self-medication and the possible associated factors during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic among adult residents of Tema in Ghana from April to July 2021. METHODS Using a cross-sectional design, 400 adults were randomly selected and surveyed using a researcher-assisted questionnaire. Data were analyzed with IBM® SPSS® Statistics Version 22.0, considering associations significant at a 95% confidence interval (p < 0.05). RESULTS Of the 400 respondents, (76%) 304 had practiced antibiotic self-medication within the previous 12 months during the COVID-19 pandemic. Significant factors associated with antibiotic self-medication included gender, age, marital status, education, occupation, and National Health Insurance Scheme subscription. Convenience and avoiding long hospital queues were primary non-medical reasons for antibiotic self-medication, while previous successful experience, easy access to antibiotics, treating symptoms, prophylaxis, and fear of hospital infection were the medical reasons for antibiotic self-medication. Commonly self-administered antibiotics were azithromycin (34%), amoxicillin/clavulanic acid (22%), and metronidazole (16%) for perceived respiratory tract and gastrointestinal tract infections. CONCLUSIONS The high prevalence of antibiotic self-medication observed during the COVID-19 pandemic underscores the need for enhanced public education and stricter enforcement of regulations governing antibiotic sales. The non-medical and medical factors of convenience, avoiding long hospital queues, previous successful experience, easy access to antibiotics, treating symptoms, prophylaxis, and fear of hospital infection which motivated antibiotic self-medication practices require the implementation of antimicrobial stewardship interventions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Kwadwo Hackman
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Accra Technical University, Accra, Ghana
| | - Lawrence Annison
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Accra Technical University, Accra, Ghana
| | - Reuben Essel Arhin
- Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Accra Technical University, Accra, Ghana
| | - George Osei Adjei
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Accra Technical University, Accra, Ghana
| | - Phyllis Otu
- Department of Science Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Accra Technical University, Accra, Ghana
| | - Emele Arthur-Hayford
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Accra Technical University, Accra, Ghana
| | - Sharon Annison
- Department of Epidemiology and Disease Control, School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Accra, Ghana
| | - Bernard Bortei Borteih
- Department of Animal Research Institute, Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR), Accra, Ghana
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Avusuglo WS, Han Q, Woldegerima WA, Bragazzi N, Asgary A, Ahmadi A, Orbinski J, Wu J, Mellado B, Kong JD. Impact assessment of self-medication on COVID-19 prevalence in Gauteng, South Africa, using an age-structured disease transmission modelling framework. BMC Public Health 2024; 24:1540. [PMID: 38849785 PMCID: PMC11157731 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-024-18984-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2024] [Accepted: 05/28/2024] [Indexed: 06/09/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To assess the impact of self-medication on the transmission dynamics of COVID-19 across different age groups, examine the interplay of vaccination and self-medication in disease spread, and identify the age group most prone to self-medication. METHODS We developed an age-structured compartmentalized epidemiological model to track the early dynamics of COVID-19. Age-structured data from the Government of Gauteng, encompassing the reported cumulative number of cases and daily confirmed cases, were used to calibrate the model through a Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) framework. Subsequently, uncertainty and sensitivity analyses were conducted on the model parameters. RESULTS We found that self-medication is predominant among the age group 15-64 (74.52%), followed by the age group 0-14 (34.02%), and then the age group 65+ (11.41%). The mean values of the basic reproduction number, the size of the first epidemic peak (the highest magnitude of the disease), and the time of the first epidemic peak (when the first highest magnitude occurs) are 4.16499, 241,715 cases, and 190.376 days, respectively. Moreover, we observed that self-medication among individuals aged 15-64 results in the highest spreading rate of COVID-19 at the onset of the outbreak and has the greatest impact on the first epidemic peak and its timing. CONCLUSION Studies aiming to understand the dynamics of diseases in areas prone to self-medication should account for this practice. There is a need for a campaign against COVID-19-related self-medication, specifically targeting the active population (ages 15-64).
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Affiliation(s)
- Wisdom S Avusuglo
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Qing Han
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Toronto, Canada
| | | | - Nicola Bragazzi
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Ali Asgary
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Toronto, Canada
- The Advanced Disaster, Emergency and Rapid Response Program, York University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Ali Ahmadi
- K. N.Toosi University of Technology, Faculty of Computer Engineering, Tehran, Iran
| | - James Orbinski
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), the Dahdaleh Institute for Global Health Research, York University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Jianhong Wu
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Toronto, Canada
| | - Bruce Mellado
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Jude Dzevela Kong
- Africa-Canada Artificial Intelligence and Data Innovation Consortium (ACADIC), York University, Toronto, Canada.
- Artificial Intelligence & Mathematical Modeling Lab (AIMM Lab), Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
- Institute of Health Policy, Management and Evaluation (IHPME), University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
- Department of Mathematics, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
- Global South Artificial Intelligence for Pandemic and Epidemic Preparedness and Response Network (AI4PEP), University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada.
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Kennedy AB, Mitcham A, Parris K, Albertson F, Sanchez Ferrer L, O'Boyle C, Patel MK, Gartner T, Broomer AM, Katzman E, Coffin J, Grier JT, Natafgi N. Wonderings to research questions: Engaging patients in long COVID research prioritization within a learning health system. Learn Health Syst 2024; 8:e10410. [PMID: 38883877 PMCID: PMC11176583 DOI: 10.1002/lrh2.10410] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 01/25/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 06/18/2024] Open
Abstract
Background An integral component of research within a learning health system is patient engagement at all stages of the research process. While there are well-defined best practices for engaging with patients on predetermined research questions, there is little specific methodology for engaging patients at the stage of research question formation and prioritization. Further, with an emerging disease such as Long COVID, population-specific strategies for meaningful engagement have not been characterized. Methods The COVID-19 Focused Virtual Patient Engagement Studio (CoVIP studio) was a virtual panel created to facilitate patient-centered studies surrounding the effects of long-term COVID ("Long COVID") also known as post-acute SARS-CoV-2 syndrome (PASC). A diverse group of panelists was recruited and trained in several different areas of knowledge, competencies, and abilities regarding research and Long COVID. A three-step approach was developed that consisted of recording panelists' broad wonderings to generate patient-specific research questions. Results The "wonderings" discussed in panelists' training sessions were analyzed to identify specific populations, interventions, comparators, outcomes, and timeframes (PICOT) elements, which were then used to create a survey to identify the elements of greatest importance to the panel. Based on the findings, 10 research questions were formulated using the PICOT format. The panelists then ranked the questions on perceived order of importance and distributed one million fictional grant dollars between the five chosen questions in the second survey. Through this stepwise prioritization process, the project team successfully translated panelists' research wonderings into investigable research questions. Conclusion This methodology has implications for the advancement of patient-engaged prioritization both within the scope of Long COVID research and in research on other rare or emerging diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ann Blair Kennedy
- Biomedical Sciences University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville South Carolina USA
- Family Medicine Prisma Health Greenville South Carolina USA
- Patient Engagement Studio, University of South Carolina Greenville South Carolina USA
| | - Ariana Mitcham
- Patient Engagement Studio, University of South Carolina Greenville South Carolina USA
- Health Services Policy and Management, University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health Columbia South Carolina USA
| | - Katherine Parris
- Patient Engagement Studio, University of South Carolina Greenville South Carolina USA
| | - Faith Albertson
- Health Services Policy and Management, University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health Columbia South Carolina USA
- Neurodevelopmental Disorders Lab University of South Carolina College of Art and Sciences Columbia South Carolina USA
- University of South Carolina Honors College Columbia South Carolina USA
| | - Luis Sanchez Ferrer
- Biomedical Sciences University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville South Carolina USA
- Patient Engagement Studio, University of South Carolina Greenville South Carolina USA
| | - Conor O'Boyle
- Biomedical Sciences University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville South Carolina USA
- Patient Engagement Studio, University of South Carolina Greenville South Carolina USA
| | - Maushmi K Patel
- Patient Engagement Studio, University of South Carolina Greenville South Carolina USA
- Health Services Policy and Management, University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health Columbia South Carolina USA
| | - Tracey Gartner
- Biomedical Sciences University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville South Carolina USA
- Patient Engagement Studio, University of South Carolina Greenville South Carolina USA
| | - Amy M Broomer
- Patient Engagement Studio, University of South Carolina Greenville South Carolina USA
| | - Evan Katzman
- Patient Engagement Studio, University of South Carolina Greenville South Carolina USA
| | - Jeanette Coffin
- Patient Engagement Studio, University of South Carolina Greenville South Carolina USA
| | - Jennifer T Grier
- Biomedical Sciences University of South Carolina School of Medicine Greenville South Carolina USA
| | - Nabil Natafgi
- Patient Engagement Studio, University of South Carolina Greenville South Carolina USA
- Health Services Policy and Management, University of South Carolina Arnold School of Public Health Columbia South Carolina USA
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Andrade HND, Oliveira JFD, Siniscalchi LAB, Costa JDD, Fia R. Global insight into the occurrence, treatment technologies and ecological risk of emerging contaminants in sanitary sewers: Effects of the SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus pandemic. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 921:171075. [PMID: 38402973 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 02/02/2024] [Accepted: 02/16/2024] [Indexed: 02/27/2024]
Abstract
The SARS-CoV-2 pandemic caused changes in the consumption of prescribed/non-prescribed drugs and the population's habits, influencing the detection and concentration of emerging contaminants (ECs) in sanitary sewage and harming environmental and health risks. Therefore, the present work sought to discuss current literature data on the effects of the "COVID-19 pandemic factor" on the quality of raw sewage produced over a five-year period (2018-2019: pre-pandemic; 2020-2022: during the pandemic) and biological, physical, chemical and hybrid treatment technologies, influencing factors in the removal of ECs and potential ecological risks (RQs). Seven hundred thirty-one publications correlating sewage and COVID-19 were identified: 184 pre-pandemic and 547 during the pandemic. Eight classes and 37 ECs were detected in sewage between 2018 and 2022, with the "COVID-19 pandemic factor" promoting an increase in estrogens (+31,775 %), antibiotics (+19,544 %), antiepileptics and antipsychotics (+722 %), pesticides (+200 %), analgesics, anti-inflammatories and anticoagulants (+173 %), and stimulant medications (+157 %) in sanitary sewage. Among the treatment systems, aerated reactors integrated into biomembranes removed >90 % of cephalexin, clarithromycin, ibuprofen, estrone, and 17β-estradiol. The absorption, adsorption, and biodegradation mechanisms of planted wetland systems contributed to better cost-benefit in reducing the polluting load of sewage ECs in the COVID-19 pandemic, individually or integrated into the WWTP. The COVID-19 pandemic factor increased the potential ecological risks (RQs) for aquatic organisms by 40 %, with emphasis on clarithromycin and sulfamethoxazole, which changed from negligible risk and low risk to (very) high risk and caffeine with RQ > 2500. Therefore, it is possible to suggest that the COVID-19 pandemic intensified physiological, metabolic, and physical changes to different organisms in aquatic biota by ECs during 2020 and 2022.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heloisa Nascimento de Andrade
- Department of Engineering and Technology, Federal University of the Semi-Arid Region, UFERSA, Pau dos Ferros, Rio Grande do Norte 59900-000, Brazil
| | - Jacineumo Falcão de Oliveira
- Department of Engineering and Technology, Federal University of the Semi-Arid Region, UFERSA, Pau dos Ferros, Rio Grande do Norte 59900-000, Brazil.
| | | | - Joseane Dunga da Costa
- Department of Engineering and Technology, Federal University of the Semi-Arid Region, UFERSA, Pau dos Ferros, Rio Grande do Norte 59900-000, Brazil
| | - Ronaldo Fia
- Department of Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Lavras, UFLA, Minas Gerais 37200-000, Brazil
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Konu YR, Dogo F, Dagnra CA, Atcha-Oubou T, Gbeasor-Komlanvi FA, Afanvi KA, Diallo FBT, Teouri M, Mijiyawa M, Ekouevi DK. Effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on HIV, malaria and tuberculosis indicators in Togo: an interrupted time series analysis. BMJ Glob Health 2024; 9:e013679. [PMID: 38569659 PMCID: PMC11002417 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2023-013679] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 03/18/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Limited data are available on the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on health-related indicators in sub-Saharan Africa. This study aimed to estimate the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on nine indicators of HIV, malaria and tuberculosis (TB) in Togo. METHODS For this interrupted time series analysis, national health information system data from January 2019 to December 2021 and TB programmatic data from the first quarter of 2018 to the fourth quarter of 2022 were analysed. Nine indicators were included. We used Poisson segmented regression to estimate the immediate impact of the pandemic and per-pandemic period trends through incidence rate ratios (IRRs) with 95% CIs. RESULTS Overall, there was a decrease in six of the nine indicators, ranging from 19.3% (IRR 0.807, 95% CI 0.682 to 0.955, p=0.024) for the hospitalisation of patients for malaria to 36.9% (IRR 0.631, 95% CI 0.457 to 0.871, p=0.013) for TB diagnosis by Mycobacterium tuberculosis Xpert immediately after the declaration of the COVID-19 pandemic. A comparison of the observed and predicted trends showed that the trend remained constant between the prepandemic and pandemic periods of COVID-19 for all malaria indicators. A significant downward monthly trend was observed in antiretroviral therapy initiation (IRR 0.909, 95% CI 0.892 to 0.926, p<0.001) and positive TB microscopy (IRR 0.919, 95% CI 0.880 to 0.960, p=0.002). CONCLUSION HIV, malaria and TB services were generally maintained over time in Togo despite the COVID-19 pandemic. However, given the decline in levels immediately after the onset of the pandemic, there is an urgent need to improve the preparedness of the healthcare system.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yao Rodion Konu
- Département de Santé Publique, Université de Lomé, Lome, Togo
- Centre Africain de Recherche en Epidemiologie et en Santé Publique (CARESP), Lomé, Togo
- Global Health in the Global South (Inserm UMR 1219, IRD EMR 271), Bordeaux Population Health, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
| | - Fall Dogo
- Programme national de lutte contre la tuberculose (PNLT), Lomé, Togo
| | - Claver Anoumou Dagnra
- Programme national de lutte contre le sida, les hépatites virales et les infections sexuellement transmissibles (PNLS-HV-IST), Lomé, Togo
| | | | - Fifonsi Adjidossi Gbeasor-Komlanvi
- Département de Santé Publique, Université de Lomé, Lome, Togo
- Centre Africain de Recherche en Epidemiologie et en Santé Publique (CARESP), Lomé, Togo
| | | | | | - Mahmoud Teouri
- Direction du système national d'information sanitaire et l'informatique (DSNSI), Lomé, Togo
| | - Moustafa Mijiyawa
- Ministère de la Santé, de l'Hygiène Publique et de l'Accès Universel aux Soins, Lomé, Togo
| | - Didier Koumavi Ekouevi
- Département de Santé Publique, Université de Lomé, Lome, Togo
- Centre Africain de Recherche en Epidemiologie et en Santé Publique (CARESP), Lomé, Togo
- Global Health in the Global South (Inserm UMR 1219, IRD EMR 271), Bordeaux Population Health, Université de Bordeaux, Bordeaux, France
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10
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Rybkina J, Jacob N, Colella B, Gold D, Stewart DE, Ruttan LA, Meusel LAC, McAndrews MP, Abbey S, Green R. Self-managing symptoms of Long COVID: an education and strategies research protocol. Front Public Health 2024; 12:1106578. [PMID: 38384879 PMCID: PMC10879441 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2024.1106578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2022] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/23/2024] Open
Abstract
Post-acute sequelae of SARS-COV-2 (PASC) is growing in prevalence, and involves symptoms originating from the central neurological, cardiovascular, respiratory, gastrointestinal, autonomic nervous, or immune systems. There are non-specific symptoms such as fatigue, headaches, and brain fog, which cannot be ascribed to a single system. PASC places a notable strain on our healthcare system, which is already laden with a large number of acute-COVID-19 patients. Furthermore, it impedes social, academic and vocational functioning, and impacts family life, relationships, and work/financial life. The treatment for PASC needs to target this non-specific etiology and wide-ranging sequelae. In conditions similar to PASC, such as "chemo brain," and prolonged symptoms of concussion, the non-specific symptoms have shown to be effectively managed through education and strategies for self-management and Mindfulness interventions. However, such interventions have yet to be empirically evaluated in PASC to our knowledge. In response to this gap, we have developed a virtual education intervention synthesized by psychiatrists and clinical psychologists for the current study. We will undertake a two-phase randomized controlled trial to determine the feasibility (Phase 1; N = 90) and efficacy (Phase 2; sample sized based on phase 1 results) of the novel 8 week Education and Self-Management Strategies group compared to a mindfulness skills program, both delivered virtually. Main outcomes include confidence/ability to self-manage symptoms, quality of life, and healthcare utilization. This study stands to mitigate the deleterious intrusiveness of symptoms on everyday life in patients with PASC, and may also help to reduce the impact of PASC on the healthcare system. Clinical trial registration:https://classic.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT05268523; identifier NCT05268523.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Rybkina
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute—University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Nithin Jacob
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute—University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Brenda Colella
- Telerehab Centre for Acquired Brain Injury, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute—University Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - David Gold
- Krembil Brain Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Donna E. Stewart
- University of Toronto, Centre for Mental Health and Senior Scientist, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Lesley A. Ruttan
- University of Toronto Scarborough, Neuro-Rehab Program, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute—University Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Liesel-Ann C. Meusel
- Telerehab Centre for Acquired Brain Injury, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute—University Centre, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Mary P. McAndrews
- Krembil Research Institute, University of Toronto, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Susan Abbey
- Medical Psychiatry and Psychiatry and Psychosocial Oncology, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Robin Green
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute—University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Department of Psychiatry, Division of Neurosciences and Clinical Translation, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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11
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Mejia CR, Ruiz-Aquino M, Garcia-Arteta G, Ramos G, Astete-Pérez I, Pineda-Cáceres M, Collahua-Briceño M, Vargas-Patiño K, Arias-Chávez D, Franchi T, Pedersini P, Tovani-Palone MR. Factors associated with the use of medicines and self-medication during the COVID-19 pandemic in 12 Latin American countries. Heliyon 2024; 10:e22299. [PMID: 38173506 PMCID: PMC10761345 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22299] [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: 06/04/2022] [Revised: 11/07/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 01/05/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic has triggered a rise in the global phenomenon of self-medication. The use of medicines with unsubstantiated claims of benefit for the prevention and/or treatment of infected people has been widely adopted. Objective To determine the factors associated with the use of medicines and self-medication by Latin American populations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods This analytical cross-sectional study was conducted via an analysis of secondary data collected from 8777 responses from 12 Latin American countries obtained from a survey on the use of medicines and self-medication during the pandemic. Results Respondents who reported using Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, or antibiotics (ABx) disclosed this as self-medication in 26.9%, 16.6%, and 9.7% of cases respectively. In our multivariate analysis, significant associations were found between: self-medication by individual choice and the use of Hydroxychloroquine, ABx, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (p = 0.026, = 0.003, and <0.001 respectively); self-medication on the recommendation of a family member, with ABx, Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, or other NSAIDs (p <0.001, <0.001, <0.001, and <0.001 respectively); and self-medication on the recommendation of another person, with Chloroquine, Hydroxychloroquine, Azithromycin, Penicillin, other ABx, Warfarin, Ivermectin, Paracetamol, Ibuprofen, or other NSAIDs (p <0.001, <0.001, <0.001, = 0.001, <0.001, <0.001, = 0.004, <0.001, <0.001, and <0.001 respectively). Conclusion There was a significantly high prevalence of self-medication in our Latin American study population, including the use of medicines not recommended for COVID-19 treatment and/or prevention. The implementation of public health measures aimed at combating the worrying COVID-19 infodemic is essential to prevent this ongoing issue and its associated negative impacts on both current public health and future medication efficacy. This is especially important in the case of ABx due to the threat of a future antimicrobial resistance pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Gin Ramos
- Universidad Peruana de Ciencias Aplicadas, Lima, Peru
| | | | | | | | - Katherine Vargas-Patiño
- Universidad Continental, Huancayo, Peru
- Asociación Médica de Investigación y Servicios en Salud, Lima, Peru
| | | | - Thomas Franchi
- The Medical School, The University of Sheffield, Sheffield, United Kingdom
| | | | - Marcos Roberto Tovani-Palone
- Department of Research Analytics, Saveetha Dental College and Hospitals, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences (SIMATS), Chennai, India
- Department of Pharmacy and Pharmacology, SRM College of Pharmacy, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Chennai, India
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12
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Konaté B, Médah R, Traoré I, Ouedraogo S, Kaboré NF, Mamguem AK, Billa O, Kania D, Badolo H, Ouédraogo E, de Rekeneire N, Poda A, Diendéré AE, Ouédraogo B, Tinto H, Dabakuyo-Yonli TS. A Qualitative Study of the Experience of COVID-19 Patients in Burkina Faso. Am J Trop Med Hyg 2024; 110:170-178. [PMID: 38109766 DOI: 10.4269/ajtmh.22-0351] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/23/2022] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 12/20/2023] Open
Abstract
In Burkina Faso, the health system is characterized by systemic insufficient and antiquated health-care infrastructures. Consequently, few health-care establishments have the required resources to diagnose and manage patients with COVID-19, and fewer still have intensive care facilities for severely ill patients with COVID. Furthermore, there is a widespread scarcity of qualified health-care staff. The aim of this study was to explore the experiences of patients with COVID-19 who recovered after being cared for in Bobo Dioulasso and Ouagadougou. Using individual semistructured interviews, we performed a cross-sectional qualitative, descriptive study from June 12 to 30, 2020 with the aid of 13 well-educated patients who had survived COVID-19. The results reveal that prior to hospital admission, the main reason that prompted patients to seek care was onset of symptoms of COVID-19, regardless of whether they had been in contact with suspected or confirmed cases. Transmission was mainly believed to have occurred in the community, in the hospital, and during travel. Patient management was punctuated by frequent self-medication with medicinal plants or pharmaceutical drugs. The participants reported a negative perception of hospitalization or home-based management, with several forms of stigmatization, but a positive perception influenced by the satisfactory quality of management in health-care centers. This report of patient experiences could be helpful in improving the management of COVID-19 in Burkina Faso, both in the health-care setting and in home-based care.
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Affiliation(s)
- Blahima Konaté
- Institut des Sciences des Sociétés, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
- Centre Muraz, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | | | - Isidore Traoré
- Centre Muraz, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
- Université Nazi Boni, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | | | | | - Ariane Kamga Mamguem
- Epidemiology and Quality of Life Research Unit, INSERM U1231, Georges François Leclerc Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Dijon, France
| | - Oumar Billa
- Epidemiology and Quality of Life Research Unit, INSERM U1231, Georges François Leclerc Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Dijon, France
| | | | - Hermann Badolo
- Observatoire National de Santé Publique, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | | | - Nathalie de Rekeneire
- Centre Muraz, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
- Institut Pasteur du Cambodge, Phnom Penh, Cambodia
| | - Armel Poda
- Université Nazi Boni, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaires Sanou Souro, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
| | | | - Boukary Ouédraogo
- Direction des Systèmes d'Information en Santé, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso
| | - Halidou Tinto
- Centre Muraz, Bobo-Dioulasso, Burkina Faso
- Institut de Recherche en Sciences de la Santé, Nanoro, Burkina Faso
| | - Tienhan Sandrine Dabakuyo-Yonli
- Epidemiology and Quality of Life Research Unit, INSERM U1231, Georges François Leclerc Comprehensive Cancer Centre, Dijon, France
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13
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Trisha SM, Ahmed SB, Uddin MF, Tabassum TT, Rahman NAS, Gupta M, Samiha M, Moulee ST, Al Sakir DI, Podder V, Agarwala RK, Agarwala N, Singhania P, Tulsan SK. Prevalence, Knowledge, Causes, and Practices of Self-Medication During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Survey. Cureus 2024; 16:e52061. [PMID: 38348002 PMCID: PMC10859611 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.52061] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction During the COVID-19 pandemic, self-medication (SM) has become a critical element in the healthcare system. SM can ease the burden on hospitals and medical resources by treating minor illnesses. However, inappropriate SM practices can lead to adverse drug reactions, drug resistance, and incorrect diagnoses, resulting in poor health outcomes. Methods To evaluate the prevalence, knowledge, causes, and practices of SM among the Bangladeshi population during the COVID-19 outbreak, a cross-sectional survey with structured questionnaires was conducted in Chittagong City, Bangladesh, from March to May 2022. The survey included 265 participants, with an average age of 35.09 years, and a multiple-choice questionnaire was used to gather information. Results The study found that 64.15% of the respondents had sufficient knowledge of SM, while 35.8% had insufficient knowledge. The primary reasons for SM during the pandemic were the influence of friends/family (90.74%), fear of infection or contact with COVID-19 cases (73.15%), and fear of quarantine or self-isolation (72.22%). Analgesics/pain relievers (84%) were the most commonly used drugs for SM for COVID-19 prevention and treatment. Antiulcerants/antacid (42%), vitamin C and multivitamins (42%), and antibiotics (32%) were also frequently used. Conclusion This study suggests that SM is prevalent among Chittagong City residents, particularly those with less than a tertiary education. The study highlights the importance of building awareness about SM practices and taking necessary steps to control them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sadia Mahmud Trisha
- Marine Biotechnology, Bangabondhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Maritime University, Dhaka, BGD
| | | | | | | | | | - Mridul Gupta
- Health and Nutrition, Save the Children in Bangladesh, Dhaka, BGD
| | - Maisha Samiha
- Health and Nutrition, Save the Children in Bangladesh, Dhaka, BGD
| | - Shahra Tanjim Moulee
- Management Information Systems, International American University, Los Angeles, USA
| | | | - Vivek Podder
- General Medicine, Tairunnessa Memorial Medical College and Hospital, Gazipur, BGD
| | | | - Nikita Agarwala
- Internal Medicine, Shaheed Ziaur Rahman Medical College, Bogura, BGD
| | - Priya Singhania
- Ophthalmology, Ispahani Islamia Eye Institute and Hospital, Dhaka, BGD
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14
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Khoshbakht R, Semsari Bonab M, Hajizadegan H, Tavakolizadeh Nooghabi E, Ghorbani A, Asgari M, Neshani A, Ghavidel M, Sadeghian H. Comparing self-medication and medical supervised treatment before hospitalization among patients with Covid-19: A retrospective case-control study. J Infect Public Health 2023; 16 Suppl 1:119-124. [PMID: 37925306 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2023.10.023] [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: 05/05/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/24/2023] [Indexed: 11/06/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND During the Covid-19 pandemic, there has been a notable increase in self-medication with antibiotics or other medications due to impaired access to healthcare services. This kind of self-treatment, without comprehending the condition and its related risks, can result in misdiagnosis, overdosing and delaying in acquiring professional medical attention, or may even cause antimicrobial resistance. Additionally, reports have suggested that medical practitioners have prescribed medications inappropriately to patients with Covid-19. To investigate this further, this study compared the medications used by patients with Covid-19 prior to hospitalization with or without a medical recommendation. METHODS Data was extracted a mass survey of patients with of Covid-19 in Mashhad, and the patients were divided into two main groups: those who received medication with guidance from a medical professional (treatment group) and those who self-administered medications without professional oversight (self-treatment group). Statistical analysis was then conducted using SPSS version 26, the Chi-square, and multiple logistic regression test. RESULTS This study examined 3266 patients, with 1466 included in the analysis. Results showed that men (9.5 %), those living in rural areas (21 %), and those with no academic degree (37.5%) had a higher likelihood to self-medicating. Antibiotics were the most frequently used medications prior to hospitalization (9.5%). Comparing the two groups revealed that three drug categories- antibiotics, antivirals and other medications (medicines that are not in the other 4 main categories)- were utilized more often in the treatment group than in the self-treatment group, with a p-value of < 0.05. The only medical condition that had a significant difference between the two groups was diabetes, with 34.1 % in the self-treatment group versus 24.5 % in the treatment group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS The Covid-19 pandemic has caused a surge in the inappropriate use of certain medications through self-medicating. This poses a serious risk to the health of patients, highlighting the need for not only adjusting guidelines but also raising awareness and enforcing compliance to prevent unnecessary use of drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Reza Khoshbakht
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran.
| | | | - Homa Hajizadegan
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | | | - Atousa Ghorbani
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Maryam Asgari
- Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Alireza Neshani
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran; Student Research Committee, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Mahdis Ghavidel
- Shahid Hasheminejad Hospital, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
| | - Hamid Sadeghian
- Department of Laboratory Sciences, School of Paramedical Sciences, Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran
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15
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Oumer A, Ale A, Hamza A, Dagne I. Extent and Correlates of Self-Medication Practice among Community-Dwelling Adults in Eastern Ethiopia. BIOMED RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 2023:4726010. [PMID: 38075321 PMCID: PMC10703530 DOI: 10.1155/2023/4726010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/15/2023] [Indexed: 12/18/2023]
Abstract
Background The use of medications without proper medical consultations poses significant health risks, drug resistance, and undiagnosed disease conditions, becoming a major pharmaceutical challenge in the 21st century. This study assessed the magnitude and associated factors of self-medication practice among adults in parts of Ethiopia. Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 647 randomly selected adults residing in randomly selected households in eastern Ethiopia via a stratified sampling approach. A pretested interviewer-administered questionnaire was used to collect the data on self-medication practice. Data were presented using tables, frequencies, percentages, and graphs. A multivariable binary logistic regression was done to identify factors associated with self-medication practice and presented as an adjusted odds ratio along with its 95% CI. Associations with a p value below 5% were used to declare statistical significance. Results A total of 647 adults with a mean age of 41.7 (11.4) years were included. Overall, 15.8% (95% CI: 12.5-18.2) of them reported to have practiced self-medication in the past month, while 67.9% (95% CI: 64.1-74.7) have practiced self-medication, mainly due to the mild nature of the symptom (11%), intention to get a rapid cure (12.2%), physical accessibility (9.1%), and less confidence in the quality of health facility services (3.7%). The majority of the drugs were in the form of oral tablets in the antibiotic, antipain, and gastrointestinal categories. Female (AOR = 1.66 and 95% CI: 0.76-3.61), larger family size (AOR = 1.34 and 95% CI: 0.73-2.46), illiteracy (AOR = 4.47 and 95% CI: 1.17-17.1), poor socioeconomic class (AOR = 4.6795 and CI: 1.71-12.7), perceived health facility visit stay as long (AOR = 1.55 and 95% CI: 0.80-3.00), khat use (AOR = 2.86 and 95% CI: 1.27-6.47), cigarette smoking (AOR = 2.86 95% CI: 1.27-6.47), and poor knowledge on proper medication use (AOR = 7.98 and 95% CI: 4.61-13.8) were associated with increased odds of self-medication. Conclusion The practice of self-medication is a health concern and is associated with lower socioeconomic class, illiteracy, substance abuse, a perceived long stay at a health facility, and poor knowledge of medication use. Behavioral interventions targeting this segment of the population via various approaches would help.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdu Oumer
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Dire Dawa University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| | - Ahmed Ale
- School of Medicine, College of Medicine and Health Science, Dire Dawa University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| | - Aragaw Hamza
- Department of Anesthesia, College of Medicine and Health Science, Dire Dawa University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
| | - Imam Dagne
- Department of Public Health, College of Medicine and Health Science, Dire Dawa University, Dire Dawa, Ethiopia
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16
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Arboleda Forero V, Cruzate Hernández JP, Yepes Restrepo M, Higuita-Gutiérrez LF. Antibiotic Self-Medication Patterns and Associated Factors in the Context of COVID-19, Medellín, Colombia: A Survey Based Cross Sectional Study. Patient Prefer Adherence 2023; 17:3057-3066. [PMID: 38027083 PMCID: PMC10680488 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s434030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Objective To describe the frequency of self-medication with antibiotics and its associated factors in Medellín, Colombia. Methods A descriptive study was conducted on 778 individuals surveyed regarding sociodemographic characteristics, self-medication with antibiotics, reasons for using these drugs, and types of antibiotics used. The analysis was performed in SPSS using absolute and relative frequencies with their corresponding confidence intervals, chi-square test, and logistic regression. Results The frequency of self-medication with antibiotics was 46% (95% CI 42.5-49.5), with 47.4% (95% CI 42.2-52.5) of the population using antibiotics without medical prescription for flu-like symptoms related to COVID-19. Amoxicillin (33.7%), azithromycin (10.9%), and cephalexin (4.7%) were the most used antibiotics. The main factors associated with self-medication were age group, zone of residence, and lack of information on the appropriate use of these medications. Conclusion The city exhibits a high frequency of self-medication with antibiotics, predominantly in conditions where they are ineffective, such as flu-like symptoms related to COVID-19. These findings highlight the contribution of the COVID-19 pandemic to bacterial resistance through self-medication and underscore the need to implement targeted actions to control the use of these medications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Luis Felipe Higuita-Gutiérrez
- School of Microbiology, Universidad de Antioquia, Medellín, Colombia
- School of Medicine, Universidad Cooperativa de Colombia, Medellín, Colombia
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17
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Moussa AA, Omar FD, Fiidow OA, Ali FH, Babatunde SM. Self-medication practices against COVID-19 infection and awareness among residents of Mogadishu, Somalia: A cross-sectional analysis. PLoS One 2023; 18:e0284854. [PMID: 37379300 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0284854] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 04/06/2023] [Indexed: 06/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has affected several countries worldwide, resulting in a considerable strain on healthcare systems and increased trend of self-medication practices. This study aims to evaluate the awareness of COVID-19 and the prevalence of self-medication during the pandemic among residents in Mogadishu, Somalia. A cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured and pretested questionnaire between May 2020 and January 2021. Participants from various disciplines were randomly recruited within the study location and interviewed about their self-medication practices during the pandemic. Descriptive statistics were used to summarise the respondents' information and responses to the questionnaire items. Associations between participants' demographic characteristics and specific items relating to self-medication practices were analysed using the Chi-square test. A total of 350 residents participated in the study. Approximately 63% of the participants reported having practised COVID-19 related self-medication with the main reasons being pharmacists' advice (21.4%) and having an old prescription (13.1%), whereas 37.1% did not report their reasons for self-medication. Most participants (60.4%) engaged in self-medication despite not having any symptoms and 62.9% had taken antibiotics in the last three months. Most participants were aware that no medication has been approved for COVID-19 (81.1%), the negative effects of self-medication (66.6%), and the transmission routes of the virus. Meanwhile, more than 40% of the participants have not worn a mask while outside their homes, and do not follow the international COVID-19 guidelines. The most prevalent drug used by participants for self-medication against COVID-19 was paracetamol (81.1%) and antibiotics (78%). The factors associated with awareness of COVID-19 and self-medication practices included age, gender, educational qualification, and occupation. This study revealed considerable high self-medication practices among Mogadishu residents, thus highlighting the need to promote awareness regarding the adverse effects of self-medication and sanitisation guidelines in addressing COVID-19 at the community level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ayan Aden Moussa
- Institute for Medical Research, SIMAD University, Mogadishu, Somalia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, SIMAD University, Mogadishu, Somalia
| | - Fardosa Dahir Omar
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, SIMAD University, Mogadishu, Somalia
| | - Osman Abubakar Fiidow
- Institute for Medical Research, SIMAD University, Mogadishu, Somalia
- Faculty of Medicine and Health Science, SIMAD University, Mogadishu, Somalia
| | - Fadumo Hassan Ali
- Institute for Medical Research, SIMAD University, Mogadishu, Somalia
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18
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Zheng Y, Liu J, Tang PK, Hu H, Ung COL. A systematic review of self-medication practice during the COVID-19 pandemic: implications for pharmacy practice in supporting public health measures. Front Public Health 2023; 11:1184882. [PMID: 37397709 PMCID: PMC10310324 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2023.1184882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/12/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction Since the COVID-19 pandemic, self-medication had become highly popular due to the risk of virus infection and overwhelming medical resources. Pharmacists are well-positioned to provide public health education and disease prevention. This study aims to provide an overview of the research about self-medication during COVID-19 and the role of pharmacists in ensuring the drug safety related to self-medication. Methods Databases (PubMed, Google Scholar, Scopus, EBSCO host, and Web of Science) were searched for published studies on the practice of self-medication in COVID-19 pandemic without restriction in population and location. Primary search terms were "self-medication," "self-care," "self-management," "non-prescription drugs," "2019nCoV," and "COVID-19." Studies conducted during the pandemic but not exclusively for COVID-19 disease were eligible for inclusion. Results The database search yielded a total of 4,752 papers. After appropriate screening, 62 articles met the inclusion criteria. Most of the studies were cross-sectional in nature. The review highlighted a very high prevalence of self-medication during COVID-19, ranging from 7.14 to 88.3%. The purpose of self-medication was mainly to treat and prevent COVID-19; fever, body aches, cough, headache, and sore throat were the most frequently mentioned indications. Categories of drugs commonly used in self-medication included antibiotics, herbs, vitamins, and analgesics, most of which came from pharmacies. Information about self-medication usually obtained from relatives and friends, social networks and health care professionals. Common reasons for self-medication included saving money and time, prior experience and mild illness; reasons associated with COVID-19 were mainly fear of contracting the virus and poor access to doctors. Gender, age, education, marital status, and concern about COVID-19 were the most usual associated factors. The role of pharmacists in self-medication included sources of information, advice on medication use, and management of adverse reactions. Conclusion During the COVID-19 pandemic, self-medication practices were widespread and varied across countries and populations. Self-medication has emerged as an important component of health care, but also as a huge global challenge. The engagement of healthcare administrators and policy makers are essential to regulate self-medication practices. The expertise and favorable conditions of pharmacists make them positioned as key roles in public health interventions for self-medication. Systematic review registration https://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/display_record.php?RecordID=395423, identifier CRD42023395423.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yu Zheng
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Jiayu Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Pou Kuan Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Hao Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
- Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
| | - Carolina Oi Lam Ung
- State Key Laboratory of Quality Research in Chinese Medicine, Institute of Chinese Medical Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
- Department of Public Health and Medicinal Administration, Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Macau, Taipa, Macao SAR, China
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19
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Almaqhawi A, Alhamad M, Albaqshi B, Alquraini M, Altaha M, Alhussain H, Alfayez R, Ibrahim Ali S. Self-Medication Practices During the COVID-19 Pandemic Among the Adult Population in the Eastern Region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Cureus 2023; 15:e40505. [PMID: 37465789 PMCID: PMC10350656 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.40505] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/20/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-medication is vital to public health because it has an impact on people's health and the current healthcare system, both positively and negatively. During public health catastrophes like the COVID-19 disease, this is particularly true. AIM This study aimed to examine the behavioral response of the community with regard to self-medication during the COVID-19 pandemic in the eastern region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. METHODS During the COVID-19 outbreak from March to September 2020, a cross-sectional online survey of 398 participants using structured questionnaires was conducted to observe knowledge, prevalence, patterns, and sources of self-medication among the respondents in the eastern region of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. RESULTS The percentage of respondents who had heard about self-medication was 50.5%, and those who practiced self-medication during COVID-19 were 43.7% of the respondents. Regarding knowledge, 60.3% had a low overall knowledge level versus 39.7% who had a high knowledge level. Most of those who practiced self-medication took medication based on their own decision (34.4%). The most frequently used drugs during the outbreak were analgesics (43.5%) and vitamins (24.9%). Only 1% of participants reported using anti-malaria drugs (hydroxychloroquine). The most common reasons for self-medication practices were having a mild illness (30.4%), followed by fear of infection (26.6%). The symptoms for which the respondents took self-medication were headache (29.6%), cough (26.6%), and fever (24.6%). CONCLUSION Our investigation showed a low level of knowledge about self-medication and a considerable level of self-medication practices. Therefore, self-medication may be minimized with ongoing awareness-raising and sensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abdullah Almaqhawi
- Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Hofuf, SAU
| | - Mahdi Alhamad
- Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Hofuf, SAU
| | - Baqer Albaqshi
- Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Hofuf, SAU
| | - Mohammed Alquraini
- Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Hofuf, SAU
| | - Musawi Altaha
- Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Hofuf, SAU
| | - Hassan Alhussain
- Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Hofuf, SAU
| | - Raed Alfayez
- Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Hofuf, SAU
| | - Sayed Ibrahim Ali
- Family and Community Medicine, College of Medicine, King Faisal University, Hofuf, SAU
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20
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Nemat A, Rezayee KJ, Essar MY, Mowlabaccus WB, Ahmad S, Mubarak MY. A report of Kabul internet users on self-medication with over-the-counter medicines. Sci Rep 2023; 13:8500. [PMID: 37231061 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-023-35757-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2022] [Accepted: 05/23/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-medication (SM) with over-the-counter (OTC) medications is a prevalent issue in Afghanistan, largely due to poverty, illiteracy, and limited access to healthcare facilities. To better understand the problem, a cross-sectional online survey was conducted using a convenience sampling method based on the availability and accessibility of participants from various parts of the city. Descriptive analysis was used to determine frequency and percentage, and the chi-square test was used to identify any associations. The study found that of the 391 respondents, 75.2% were male, and 69.6% worked in non-health fields. Participants cited cost, convenience, and perceived effectiveness as the main reasons for choosing OTC medications. The study also found that 65.2% of participants had good knowledge of OTC medications, with 96.2% correctly recognizing that OTC medications require a prescription, and 93.6% understanding that long-term use of OTC drugs can have side effects. Educational level and occupation were significantly associated with good knowledge, while only educational level was associated with a good attitude towards OTC medications (p < 0.001). Despite having good knowledge of OTC drugs, participants reported a poor attitude towards their use. Overall, the study highlights the need for greater education and awareness about the appropriate use of OTC medications in Kabul, Afghanistan.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arash Nemat
- Department of Microbiology, Kabul University of Medical Sciences, 3rd District, Kabul, 1001, Afghanistan.
- Department of Global Public Health, Karolinska Institutet, 17177, Solna, Sweden.
| | - Khalid Jan Rezayee
- Department of Medical Laboratory Technology, Kabul University of Medical Sciences, Kabul, Afghanistan
| | - Mohammad Yasir Essar
- Kabul University of Medical Sciences, Kabul, Afghanistan
- Department of Global Health, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| | | | - Shoaib Ahmad
- Department of Medicine, District Headquarters Teaching Hospital, Faisalabad, Pakistan
| | - Mohammad Yousuf Mubarak
- Department of Microbiology, Kabul University of Medical Sciences, 3rd District, Kabul, 1001, Afghanistan
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21
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Mboni HM, Tshikongo AK, Chirubagula VB, Shakalenga CM, Kanyegere AM, Rugema BB, Mushobekwa SS, Akiba DB, Rusati NM. [Evaluation of self-medication practices and their characteristics among Uvira in Democratic Republic of Congo students]. Pan Afr Med J 2023; 45:53. [PMID: 37637404 PMCID: PMC10460111 DOI: 10.11604/pamj.2023.45.53.39690] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Introduction self-medication poses a threat to public health. The purpose of this study was to evaluate self-medication practices among Uvira students in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). Methods we conducted a cross-sectional descriptive study based on an indirect interview of 700 students, using a self-administered survey questionnaire. Data were processed using XLSTAT. Results according to the survey conducted on these 700 students, the prevalence of self-medication was 99.3% (n=695), of which 42.3% (n=294) started during adolescence. Of the total respondents, 57.4% (n=399) said they resorted to self-medication every time they fell ill and were short of money (n=471, 67.7%) for a consultation. The most commonly cited pathology encountered during this practice was malaria (n=212, 30.5%). Of all drugs used, paracetamol was in the first place (n=106, 15.3%) while the tablet was the form most used by these students (n=598, 86%). In terms of the drug combination, Fansidar-Coartem (n=106, 17.2%) was the most common; the dosage was age-dependent in 65.6% (n=456) of cases. This study also showed that 37.4% (n=695) of the students interviewed used phytotherapy, mainly to treat malaria (n=124, 47.3%). Conclusion among Uvira students, self-medication is extremely used, especially against malaria. Efforts must be made by healthcare personnel in collaboration with policymakers to raise awareness about the rational use of medications, in order to better control and potentially eradicate this practice that is harmful to health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Henry Manya Mboni
- Département de Pharmacologie, Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques, Université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, République Démocratique du Congo
- Filière des Techniques Pharmaceutiques, Institut Supérieur des Techniques Médicales d´Uvira, Uvira, République Démocratique du Congo
| | - Arsène Kabamba Tshikongo
- Département de Biologie Clinique, Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques, Université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, République Démocratique Congo
| | - Valentin Bashige Chirubagula
- Département de Pharmacologie, Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques, Université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, République Démocratique du Congo
| | - Cedrick Mutombo Shakalenga
- Département de Pharmacologie, Faculté des Sciences Pharmaceutiques, Université de Lubumbashi, Lubumbashi, République Démocratique du Congo
| | - Arsène Mutula Kanyegere
- Filière des Techniques Pharmaceutiques, Institut Supérieur des Techniques Médicales d´Uvira, Uvira, République Démocratique du Congo
| | - Bontemps Byakujoga Rugema
- Filière des Sciences Infirmières, Institut Supérieur des Techniques Médicales d´Uvira, Uvira, République Démocratique du Congo
| | - Saili Stay Mushobekwa
- Filière des Sciences Infirmières, Institut Supérieur des Techniques Médicales d´Uvira, Uvira, République Démocratique du Congo
| | - Derrick Bushobole Akiba
- Filière de Santé Publique, Institut Supérieur des Techniques Médicales d´Uvira, Uvira, République Démocratique du Congo
| | - Nicolas Mihuhi Rusati
- Filière de Santé Publique, Institut Supérieur des Techniques Médicales d´Uvira, Uvira, République Démocratique du Congo
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22
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d'Arqom A, Nasution MZ, Kadir SZSA, Yusof J, Govindaraju K. Practice and knowledge of dietary supplement consumption among Indonesian adults post-delta wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. F1000Res 2023; 12:3. [PMID: 37469719 PMCID: PMC10352623 DOI: 10.12688/f1000research.129045.2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/02/2023] [Indexed: 07/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Increasing dietary supplement (DS) consumption was observed during the COVID-19 pandemic, including during the post-Delta wave period. This study aimed to measure the practice of DS consumption and respondents' knowledge of DS. Methods: An internet-based survey was distributed from October-December 2021 and obtained 541 valid and completed responses. Descriptive analysis was performed to present the practice of DS consumption, including frequency, duration, aim, preferable dosage form etc. Level of knowledge on DS principles, side effects and regulation were also measured. Inferential analyses were conducted to determine the predictors of the respondents' DS practice and level of knowledge. Results: Data from 541 valid responses showed that 77.63% of respondents consumed DS in the last 3 months, with only 59.52% reporting also consuming DS before the COVID-19 pandemic. One half of the respondents had good knowledge about DS; however, some knowledge regarding side effects and possible drug-supplement interaction needed improvement. Their DS consumption practice was affected by their economic status and history of contracting COVID-19. Nevertheless, the level of knowledge was not affected by the sociodemographic factors and DS supplement experience. Conclusions: Taken together, the practice of self-consumption of DS in Indonesia is increasing; hence, knowledge of DS is necessary to avoid detrimental effects that might occur in the future. Increasing access to information on better labelling and educating consumers about DS are important actions to consider.
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Affiliation(s)
- Annette d'Arqom
- Translational Medicine and Therapeutics Research Group, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, 60131, Indonesia
- Department of Anatomy, Histology, and Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, East Java, 60131, Indonesia
| | - Mhd Zamal Nasution
- Postgraduate School, Universitas Airlangga, Surabaya, East Java, 60286, Indonesia
| | | | - Junaidah Yusof
- School of Human Resource Development & Psychology, Faculty of Social Sciences & Humanities, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, Johor Bahru, 81310, Malaysia
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23
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Nortey RA, Kretchy IA, Koduah A, Buabeng KO. Biopsychosocial analysis of antibiotic use for the prevention or management of COVID-19 infections: A scoping review. Res Social Adm Pharm 2023; 19:573-581. [PMID: 36496334 PMCID: PMC9715464 DOI: 10.1016/j.sapharm.2022.11.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 11/12/2022] [Accepted: 11/27/2022] [Indexed: 12/03/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The novelty and complexity of the COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in various coping mechanisms adopted by individuals as a means of averting the perceived fatalities of the pandemic. The use of antibiotics in the management of COVID-19 is clinically recommended under specific conditions. However, there are increasing trends of non-adherence to the recommended criteria resulting in the unwarranted use of antibiotics as an adaptative approach to the ongoing pandemic. OBJECTIVE The objective was to identify and classify factors associated with the unwarranted use of antibiotics in the management of COVID-19 from published literature and the perspectives of key stakeholders along a Biopsychosocial model. METHODS Literature was searched in the following databases: PubMed/MEDLINE, Scopus, Embase and Google Scholar for studies published between 31st December 2019 and 31st January 2022. The Arskey and O'Malley framework modified by Levac in the six-stage methodological process was adopted for this review and included: a) identification of research questions, b) identification of relevant research articles, c) selection of studies, d) data charting and synthesis, e) summary, discussion and analysis, and f) stakeholder consultations. RESULTS Out of 10,252 records identified from all sources, 12 studies were selected for inclusion in this scoping review. The selected articles reflected both antibiotic use and COVID-19 whilst capturing the biological (medical) and psychosocial perspectives. Most of the studies reported the overuse or abuse of Azithromycin especially in hospital settings. Common themes across the review and stakeholder consultations included fear, anxiety, media influences and deficits in public knowledge. CONCLUSION The findings of the study highlight the complexity of antibiotic control especially in the context of a pandemic. The identified determinants of antibiotic use provide the necessary framework to simulate health emergencies and be better positioned in the future through the development of targeted and comprehensive policies on antibiotic stewardship.
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Affiliation(s)
- Radolf Ansbert Nortey
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Private Mail Bag, University Post Office, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.
| | - Irene Akwo Kretchy
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of Ghana, PO Box LG 43, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
| | - Augustina Koduah
- Department of Pharmacy Practice and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, University of Ghana, PO Box LG 43, Legon, Accra, Ghana.
| | - Kwame Ohene Buabeng
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, Private Mail Bag, University Post Office, Kwame Nkrumah University of Science and Technology, Kumasi, Ghana.
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24
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Rafati S, Baniasadi T, Dastyar N, Zoghi G, Ahmadidarrehsima S, Salari N, Rafati F. Prevalence of self-medication among the elderly: A systematic review and meta-analysis. JOURNAL OF EDUCATION AND HEALTH PROMOTION 2023; 12:67. [PMID: 37113410 PMCID: PMC10127510 DOI: 10.4103/jehp.jehp_630_22] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Accepted: 06/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-medication is the use of unprescribed drugs to treat a disease. Elderly self-medication can be more dangerous compared to other age groups because of changes in organ functions that occur due to senescence. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of self-medication in the elderly, its related factors, and common drugs used in this regard. MATERIALS AND METHODS Electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched between January 2016 and June 2021. The search strategy was built on two core concepts: "self-medication" and "aged". The search was limited to original articles in the English language. A random effect model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence of self-medication. Heterogeneity among studies was assessed using both the I2 statistic and the χ 2 test. Also, a meta-regression model was used to investigate the potential sources of heterogeneity of the studies. RESULTS Out of 520 non-duplicate studies, 38 were included in the meta-analysis. Self-medication in the elderly ranged from 0.3% to 82%. The pooled proportion of self-medication was 36% (95% CI: 27%-45%). The result of the χ 2 test and the I2 index (P < 0.001, I2= 99.90%) revealed notable heterogeneity among the included studies in the meta-analysis. The meta-regression showed a significant association between the sample size (adjusted β = -0.01; P = 0.043) and the pooled proportion of self-medication. CONCLUSION The prevalence of self-medication in the elderly is high. Education through mass media to raise awareness about the dangers of self-medication can help solve this problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shideh Rafati
- Social Factors in Health Promotion Research Center, Hormozgan Health Research Institute, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Tayebeh Baniasadi
- Department of Health Information Technology, Faculty of Paramedicine, Hormozgan University of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Neda Dastyar
- Department of Midwifery, Nursing and Midwifery School, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Ghazal Zoghi
- Endocrinology and Metabolism Research Center, Hormozgan Univesity of Medical Sciences, Bandar Abbas, Iran
| | - Sudabeh Ahmadidarrehsima
- Department of Nursing, Nursing and Midwifery School, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Nasibeh Salari
- Department of Nursing, Nursing and Midwifery School, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
| | - Foozieh Rafati
- Department of Nursing, Nursing and Midwifery School, Jiroft University of Medical Sciences, Jiroft, Iran
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25
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Mohamed H, Faini D, Ngailo L, Munishi C, Mutayoba R, Mmbuji P, Mponela M, Subi L, Kwesi E, Mpembeni R, Jalloh MF, Gatei W, Bakari M, Mghamba J. The role of community pharmacies in early detection of suspected COVID-19 cases in 2020: lessons from Dar es Salaam, Tanzania. BMJ Glob Health 2023; 8:bmjgh-2022-009928. [PMID: 36804730 PMCID: PMC9943696 DOI: 10.1136/bmjgh-2022-009928] [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: 06/17/2022] [Accepted: 10/04/2022] [Indexed: 02/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Tanzania reported its first COVID-19 case on 16 March 2020. We conducted event-based surveillance of COVID-19 suspect cases among pharmacy clients presenting with respiratory symptoms and influenza-like illness to increase early and rapid detection of COVID-19 cases and mitigate transmission. We conveniently sampled 103 pharmacies from Dar es Salaam, the epicentre for the COVID-19 pandemic in Tanzania at the time. Between 23 April 2020 and 18 May 2020, 67% of the pharmacies (69/103) reported an observed increase in the number of clients presenting with respiratory symptoms and influenza-like illness compared with the 1 month before the COVID-19 outbreak. In the 1-month surveillance period, the participating pharmacies recorded 75 alerts of COVID-19 suspect cases and referred all suspected COVID-19 cases to rapid response teams for additional symptomatic screening and SARS-CoV-2 testing. A key implementation challenge was that some clients identified as COVID-19 suspected cases were hesitant to provide follow-up information for linkage to rapid response teams. Addressing concerns among drug dispensers in the participating pharmacies and informing them of the benefits of the surveillance activity were important implementation components. Our approach demonstrates the overall feasibility of rapidly implementing an event-based surveillance system for an emerging health threat through an existing network of pharmacies within the community. The approach and tools used in this surveillance activity could be adapted in similar settings to detect and generate alerts of disease outbreaks in the community that other surveillance systems may otherwise miss.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hussein Mohamed
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of
| | - Diana Faini
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of
| | - Lusungu Ngailo
- African Medical Research Foundation (AMREF) Health Africa, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of
| | - Castory Munishi
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of
| | - Rita Mutayoba
- African Medical Research Foundation (AMREF) Health Africa, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of
| | - Peter Mmbuji
- Tanzania Country Office of the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Marcelina Mponela
- Tanzania Country Office of the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Leonard Subi
- Ministry of Health, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of
| | - Elias Kwesi
- Ministry of Health, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of
| | - Rose Mpembeni
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of
| | - Mohamed F Jalloh
- Tanzania Country Office of the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Wangeci Gatei
- Tanzania Country Office of the U.S Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania
| | - Muhammad Bakari
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of
| | - Janneth Mghamba
- Muhimbili University of Health and Allied Sciences, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of,Ministry of Health, Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, United Republic of
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26
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Kiragga AN, Najjemba L, Galiwango R, Banturaki G, Munyiwra G, Iwumbwe I, Atwine J, Ssendiwala C, Natif A, Nakanjako D. Community purchases of antimicrobials during the COVID-19 pandemic in Uganda: An increased risk for antimicrobial resistance. PLOS GLOBAL PUBLIC HEALTH 2023; 3:e0001579. [PMID: 36963050 PMCID: PMC10021632 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pgph.0001579] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2022] [Accepted: 01/16/2023] [Indexed: 02/25/2023]
Abstract
Self-Medication (SM) involves the utilization of medicines to treat self-recognized symptoms or diseases without consultation and the irrational use of over-the-counter drugs. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the lack of definitive treatment led to increased SM. We aimed to estimate the extent of SM for drugs used to treat COVID-19 symptoms by collecting data from pharmacy sale records. The study was conducted in Kampala, Uganda, where we extracted data from community pharmacies with functional Electronic Health Records between January 2018 and October 2021 to enable a comparison of pre-and post-COVID-19. The data included the number of clients purchasing the following drugs used to treat COVID-19 and its symptoms: Antibiotics included Azithromycin, Erythromycin, and Ciprofloxacin; Supplements included Zinc and vitamin C, while Corticosteroids included dexamethasone. A negative binomial model was used to estimate the incident rate ratios for each drug to compare the effect of COVID-19 on SM. In the pre- COVID-19 period (1st January 2018 to 11th March 2020), 19,285 customers purchased antibiotics which included; Azithromycin (n = 6077), Ciprofloxacin (n = 6066) and Erythromycin (n = 997); health supplements including Vitamin C (430) and Zinc (n = 138); and Corticosteroid including Dexamethasone (n = 5577). During the COVID-19 pandemic (from 15th March 2020 to the data extraction date in October 2021), we observed a 99% increase in clients purchasing the same drugs. The number of clients purchasing Azithromycin increased by 19.7% to 279, Ciprofloxacin reduced by 58.8% to 96 clients, and those buying Erythromycin similarly reduced by 35.8% to 492 clients. In comparison, there were increases of 170%, 181%, and 377% for Vitamin C, Zinc, and Dexamethasone, respectively. The COVID-19 pandemic underscored the extent of SM in Uganda. We recommend future studies with a representation of data from pharmacies located in rural and urban areas to further study pandemics' effect on antimicrobials prescriptions, including obtaining pharmacists' perspectives using mixed methods approaches.
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Affiliation(s)
- Agnes N Kiragga
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- African Population and Health Research Center, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Leticia Najjemba
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
| | - Ronald Galiwango
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- African Center of Excellence in Bioinformatics and Data Intensive Sciences, Infectious Diseases Institute, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
- Center for Computational Biology, Uganda Christian University, Mukono, Uganda
| | - Grace Banturaki
- Infectious Diseases Institute, College of Health Sciences, Makerere University, Kampala, Uganda
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A Cross-Sectional Analysis of Self-Medication Patterns during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Ecuador. MEDICINA (KAUNAS, LITHUANIA) 2022; 58:medicina58111678. [PMID: 36422217 PMCID: PMC9698278 DOI: 10.3390/medicina58111678] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Revised: 10/25/2022] [Accepted: 10/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022]
Abstract
Background and Objectives: Drug consumption is a widely developed practice around the world. However, sometimes medicines are acquired with or without prescription, a practice termed self-medication, which can have negative impacts on the health of the population. It has been observed that with the arrival of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, self-medicated drug consumption figures increased in several countries. To describe the patterns of medication, use and the prevalence of self-medication during the COVID-19 pandemic in inhabitants of the capital province of Pichincha, Ecuador. Materials and Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted based on a self-administered online questionnaire from April to June 2022, among residents of the province of Pichincha, Ecuador. Participants were invited through social networks (WhatsApp and Facebook). A total of 401 surveys were included in this study. Consumption patterns (prescription of and treatment with) of medicines during the pandemic were evaluated, as well as the prevalence of self-medication and variables that characterize the way of acquiring medicines. The Chi-square test was used to look for relationships between consumption patterns, self-medication, and the characteristics of the participants. Results: Most participants were female (53.4%), and 59.4% reported having had COVID-19. A total of 244 (60.9%) consumed medications during the pandemic, mostly for the purpose of treating the infection. About half (48.4%) self-medicated. The most used medications were paracetamol (87.3%) and ibuprofen (47.5%). Drugs consumption as a treatment and informal sources of information (TV, social networks, advice) were associated with the practice of self-medication (p < 0.05). Conclusions: A significant percentage of over-the-counter (OTC) and legal drug use was found to persist after the COVID-19 pandemic. Our findings highlight the effects that alternative forms of information sources other than medical personnel can have on drug consumption and self-medication practices.
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28
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Kazemioula G, Golestani S, Alavi SMA, Taheri F, Gheshlagh RG, Lotfalizadeh MH. Prevalence of self-medication during COVID-19 pandemic: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Front Public Health 2022; 10:1041695. [PMID: 36408026 PMCID: PMC9669079 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.1041695] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/06/2022] Open
Abstract
Background The COVID-19 pandemic and restrictions on travel and quarantine measures made people turn to self-medication (SM) to control the symptoms of their diseases. Different studies were conducted worldwide on different populations, and their results were different. Therefore, this global systematic review and meta-analysis was conducted to estimate the pooled prevalence of self-medication. Methods In this systematic review and meta-analysis, databases of Scopus, PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science were searched without a time limit. All eligible observational articles that reported self-medication during the COVID-19 pandemic were analyzed. Heterogeneity among the studies was assessed using Cochran's Q test and I2 statistics. A random-effects model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence of self-medication. The methodological quality of the articles was evaluated with the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale. Results Fifty-six eligible studies were reviewed. The pooled prevalence of self-medication was 48.6% (95% CI: 42.8-54.3). The highest and lowest prevalence of self-medication was in Asia (53%; 95% CI: 45-61) and Europe (40.8%; 95% CI: 35-46.8). Also, the highest and lowest prevalence of self-medication was related to students (54.5; 95% CI: 40.8-68.3) and healthcare workers (32.5%; 16-49). The prevalence of self-medication in the general population (48.8%; 40.6-57) and in patients with COVID-19 (41.7%; 25.5-58). The prevalence of self-medication was higher in studies that collected data in 2021 than in 2020 (51.2 vs. 48%). Publication bias was not significant (p = 0.320). Conclusion During the COVID-19 pandemic, self-medication was highly prevalent, so nearly half of the people self-medicated. Therefore, it seems necessary to provide public education to control the consequences of self-medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Golnesa Kazemioula
- Department of Medical Genetics, School of Medicine, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| | - Shayan Golestani
- Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Dental School, Islamic Azad University, Isfahan, Iran
| | | | - Forough Taheri
- Department of Medical Genetics, Faculty of Medicine, Isfahan University of Medical Sciences, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Reza Ghanei Gheshlagh
- Social Determinants of Health Research Center, Research Institute for Health Development, Kurdistan University of Medical Sciences, Sanandaj, Iran
| | - Mohammad Hassan Lotfalizadeh
- Board Certificate Oral and Maxillofacial Radiologist, North Khorasan University of Medical Sciences (NKUMS), Bojnurd, Iran,*Correspondence: Mohammad Hassan Lotfalizadeh
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Chaudhry B, Azhar S, Jamshed S, Ahmed J, Khan LUR, Saeed Z, Madléna M, Gajdács M, Rasheed A. Factors Associated with Self-Medication during the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Study in Pakistan. Trop Med Infect Dis 2022; 7:tropicalmed7110330. [PMID: 36355873 PMCID: PMC9694449 DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed7110330] [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: 08/13/2022] [Revised: 10/11/2022] [Accepted: 10/22/2022] [Indexed: 11/16/2022] Open
Abstract
Self-medication (SM) is characterized by the procurement and use of medicines by bypassing primary healthcare services and without consulting a physician, usually to manage acute symptoms of self-diagnosed illnesses. Due to the limited availability of primary healthcare services and the anxiety associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, the compulsion to SM by the public has increased considerably. The study aimed to assess the characteristics, practices, and associated factors of SM by the public during the COVID-19 pandemic in Sargodha, Pakistan. χ2-tests and univariable analyses were conducted to explore the identification of characteristics and the potential contributing factors for SM during COVID-19, while multivariable logistic regression models were run to study the effect of variables that maintained a significant association. The study was performed during July−September 2021, with n = 460 questionnaires returned overall (response rate: 99.5%). The majority of respondents were males (58.7%, n = 270) who live in the periphery of the town (63.9%, n = 294), and most of the respondents belonged to the age group of 18−28 years (73.3%, n = 339). A large number, 46.1% (n = 212), of the participants were tested for COVID-19 during the pandemic, and among them, 34.3% (n = 158) practiced SM during the pandemic; the most common source of obtaining medicines was requesting them directly from a pharmacy (25.0%; n = 127). The chances of practicing SM for medical health professionals were 1.482 (p-value = 0.046) times greater than for non-medical health personnel. The likelihood of practicing SM in participants whose COVID-19 test was positive was 7.688 (p-value < 0.001) times more than who did not test for COVID-19. Allopathic medicines, acetaminophen (23.6%), azithromycin (14,9%), and cough syrups (13%), and over the counter (OTC) pharmaceuticals, vitamin oral supplements, such as Vitamin C (39.1%), folic acid (23.5%), and calcium (22.6%), were the most commonly consumed medicines and supplements, respectively; being a healthcare professional or having a COVID-test prior showed a significant association with the usage of Vitamin C (p < 0.05 in all cases). Respondents who mentioned unavailability of the physician and difficulty in travelling/reaching healthcare professionals were found 2.062-times (p-value = 0.004) and 1.862-times (p-value = 0.021) more likely to practice SM, respectively; SM due to fear of COVID was more common in individuals who had received COVID-tests prior (p = 0.004). Practices of SM were observed at alarming levels among our participants. Consciousness and understanding about the possible adverse effects of SM must be established and validated on a continuous level; in addition, on a commercial level, collaboration from pharmacists not to sell products (especially prescription-only medicines) without a certified prescription must be developed and implemented.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Saiza Azhar
- College of Pharmacy, University of Sargodha, Sargodha 40100, Pakistan
| | - Shazia Jamshed
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Practice, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universiti Sultan Zainal Abidin, Kuala Terengganu 21300, Malaysia
- Correspondence: (S.J.); (A.R.)
| | - Jahanzaib Ahmed
- College of Pharmacy, University of Sargodha, Sargodha 40100, Pakistan
| | | | - Zahid Saeed
- College of Pharmacy, University of Sargodha, Sargodha 40100, Pakistan
| | - Melinda Madléna
- Department of Oral Biology and Experimental Dental Research, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Márió Gajdács
- Department of Oral Biology and Experimental Dental Research, Faculty of Dentistry, University of Szeged, 6720 Szeged, Hungary
| | - Abdur Rasheed
- School of Public Health Dow, University of Health Sciences, Karachi 74200, Pakistan
- Correspondence: (S.J.); (A.R.)
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Bulatova N, Younes S, Arabiyat M, Abukaff A, Madanat S, Alqudah E, Hamati A, Halawa F, Younes A. Use of traditional and complementary medicine for COVID 19 prophylaxis among healthcare professionals and students in Jordan: A cross-sectional study. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0276015. [PMID: 36264917 PMCID: PMC9584517 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0276015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2022] [Accepted: 09/14/2022] [Indexed: 11/18/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION There is inadequate evidence to recommend the use of any traditional and complementary medicine (T&CM) methods such as vitamin, mineral, herbal or other dietary supplements to prevent or treat COVID 19. Members of the medical team are particularly at risk of exposure to high viral load of coronavirus. They have also the best access to professional information regarding disease treatment and prophylaxis and disseminate such knowledge. The aim of the study was to assess the prevalence of use of T&CM for the prophylaxis of COVID 19 among the healthcare professionals and students in Jordan, along with the most common types and the factors associated with T&CM use. METHODOLOGY A cross-sectional study of T&CM use was conducted in Jordan using a snowball sampling method to distribute Google Forms and to enrol participants during coronavirus outbreak between June 10, 2021, and August 28, 2021. The study included healthcare professionals or students who consented to participate in the survey. The survey excluded those participants who had filled the questionnaire at least once or were pregnant/breast-feeding at the time of the study. The questionnaire consisted of 29 items, including screening, checkbox, dichotomous, matrix and open-ended questions. RESULTS The response rate was 97.1%. Out of 560 study respondents, 359 (64.1%) reported using T&CM for COVID 19 prevention. Vitamins and nutrients were consumed by almost half (48.4%) of study participants, while nonpharmacological methods and herbal remedies were consumed by 35.2% and 25.2%, respectively. The most common source of information regarding T&CM use for COVID 19 prophylaxis included scientific publications (59.5%), followed by disease treatment guidelines (38.0%) and social media (32.3%). Adverse effects were reported by 8.5% and possible adverse effects were reported by another 8.5% of participants. The T&CM use was associated with working in contact with COVID 19 patients (OR: 1.625 (95% CI 1.047-2.523) (P = 0.03) and having a colleague as a source of information (OR: 1.720 (95% CI 1.026-2.883) (P = 0.04). CONCLUSIONS The prevalence of T&CM use for COVID 19 prevention among healthcare professionals and students in Jordan is high, with a significant proportion of participants reporting adverse effects. There is an urgent need for further research toward efficacy and safety of T&CM in COVID 19 prophylaxis as well as development of appropriate public health policy on this issue specific to each country.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nailya Bulatova
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan,* E-mail:
| | - Sara Younes
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Majd Arabiyat
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Ahmad Abukaff
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Sara Madanat
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Eman Alqudah
- Department of Biopharmaceutics and Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Anoud Hamati
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
| | - Farah Halawa
- Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, The University of Jordan, Amman, Jordan
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Facebook as a source of access to medicines. PLoS One 2022; 17:e0275272. [PMID: 36227918 PMCID: PMC9560064 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0275272] [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: 01/24/2022] [Accepted: 09/13/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Over the last decade, we've observed an enormous social media development, which have recently become commercial services. Hence, we aimed to verify if Facebook might be considered as a source of access to medicines. We also intended to identify prescription (Rx) and over the counter (OTC) medicines if available on that platform. The study was conducted from January 2019 to July 2020. We investigated offers of pharmaceuticals posted on Facebook (individual posts and communities) between 2016 and 2019. Medicines were divided into Rx and OTC brands and in accordance with their possible therapeutic use. We verified whether the medicines were for sale, to exchange, or available for free. Posts and groups were investigated for example, by entering the phrase "for free," followed by a city in Poland. Out of 409 offers, 380 (92.91%) concerned Rx brands and 29 (7.09%) OTC brands. 315 (77.02%) medications were available "for free". In 47 (11.49%) cases, an "exchange" was expected, and 47 (11.49%) announcements were marked as "for sale". Cardiovascular medicines (n = 125; 30.56%) were the most popular. There were also antidiabetics (n = 38; 9.29%) and antipsychotics (n = 28; 6.84%). We also found clear candidates for misuse. These were opioids (n = 7; 1.71%), benzodiazepines (n = 2; 0.48%), clomifene (n = 1; 0.24%), and letrozole (n = 1; 0.24%). Facebook provides the possibility of uncontrolled access to medicines. The majority of offers concerned Rx brands, including opioids and benzodiazepines. Medicines offered on Facebook were mainly accessible for free. The scope and the number of medications offered on Facebook should make this issue a hazardous phenomenon.
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MORAES RR, CORREA MB, MARTINS-FILHO PR, LIMA GS, DEMARCO FF. COVID-19 incidence, severity, medication use, and vaccination among dentists: survey during the second wave in Brazil. J Appl Oral Sci 2022; 30:e20220016. [PMID: 36197403 PMCID: PMC9529204 DOI: 10.1590/1678-7757-2022-0016] [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: 01/21/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/07/2022] Open
Abstract
Objective This cross-sectional study with dentists in Brazil assessed the COVID-19 incidence and severity, its vaccination status, and the level of confidence in vaccines in May 2021 (COVID-19 second wave). The medications used to prevent or treat COVID-19, including controversial substances (vitamin D, ivermectin, zinc, and chloroquine), were analyzed. Methodology Dentists were recruited by email and responded to a pretested questionnaire until May 31, 2021. Bivariate and multivariate regression analyses were performed (α=0.05). Prevalence ratios were calculated for the association between professional characteristics and two outcomes: SARS-CoV-2 infection and use of controversial substances. Results In total, 1,907 responses were received (return rate of 21.2%). One third of dentists reported intermediate levels of confidence in the safety and efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines, but 96% had received at least one vaccine dose, mainly CoronaVac. The effect of the pandemic on dental practice was classified as lower/much lower, in comparison with the first wave, by 46% of participants. Moreover, 27% of dentists had already tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 and about 50% had relatives or friends who had been hospitalized or died from COVID-19. At least one medication was used by 59% of participants and 43% used two or more substances. Vitamin D (41%), ivermectin (35%), and zinc (29%) were the most frequent substances. More experienced dentists (≥21 years of professional experience) were 42% more likely to use controversial substances than less experienced dentists. The prevalence of use of controversial substances was 30% higher among dentists with residency or advanced training, such as postgraduate degrees, in comparison with participants holding MSc or PhD degrees. Participants with low confidence in vaccines were 2.1 times more likely to use controversial substances than participants with a very high confidence. Conclusion The results of this study show the high severity of the COVID-19 pandemic in Brazil and raised questions about the use of scientific evidence by dentists in their decision to use controversial substances.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rafael R MORAES
- Universidade Federal de PelotasBrasilUniversidade Federal de Pelotas, Brasil.
| | - Marcos B CORREA
- Universidade Federal de PelotasBrasilUniversidade Federal de Pelotas, Brasil.
| | | | - Giana S LIMA
- Universidade Federal de PelotasBrasilUniversidade Federal de Pelotas, Brasil.
| | - Flavio F DEMARCO
- Universidade Federal de PelotasBrasilUniversidade Federal de Pelotas, Brasil.
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Jirjees F, Barakat M, Shubbar Q, Othman B, Alzubaidi H, Al-Obaidi H. Perceptions of COVID-19 symptoms, prevention, and treatment strategies among people in seven Arab countries: A cross-sectional study. J Infect Public Health 2022; 15:1108-1117. [PMID: 36137360 PMCID: PMC9462932 DOI: 10.1016/j.jiph.2022.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/22/2022] [Revised: 08/13/2022] [Accepted: 08/29/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUP the widespread COVID-19 infection worldwide has resulted in the inability of healthcare facilities to receive all infected patients; therefore, most are treated at home. In addition, factors such as high mortality, types and severity of symptoms, and the prevalence of unreliable information have prompted patients to resort to self-treatment. OBJECTIVES To assess prevention, treatment, degree of symptoms, and sources of information among patients with COVID-19 in Arab countries METHOD: A cross-sectional study was conducted in seven Arab countries: Algeria, Egypt, Iraq, Lebanon, Libya, Tunisia, and the United Arab of Emirates. People who have recovered from COVID-19 completed the study questionnaire. Score of symptoms during and after COVID-19 infection has been calculated by giving the participants a list of 13 symptoms. RESULTS A total of 3519 participants completed the survey. Mostly females (68.3%), and aged between 18 and 40 years old (59.4%). Prophylaxis treatments, including vaccines and antibiotics, have been used in around 40% of the participants. The total average score of symptoms during the infection period was found 7.31 ± 3.66 out of 13. However, the symptoms score upon recovery was low (0.48 ± 1.11 score). The significant associations with increased incidence of symptoms during infection were reported with older people, married, divorced or widowed, people with chronic diseases, and obese. Moreover, significant associations with decreased symptoms were reported with those who worked in the health sector, non- or ex-smokers, and vaccinated people. CONCLUSION The use of medication and other treatments to prevent infection with COVID-19 was common among the participants in the seven countries. Taking the vaccine was the only effect on the number of symptoms experienced by patients. Although nearly two years have passed since the onset of the disease, there is still a need to raise treatment awareness among patients at home.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Muna Barakat
- School of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Jordan
| | | | - Bayan Othman
- School of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Jordan
| | | | - Hala Al-Obaidi
- College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences, Ajman University, UAE
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Shrestha AB, Aryal M, Magar JR, Shrestha S, Hossainy L, Rimti FH. The scenario of self-medication practices during the covid-19 pandemic; a systematic review. Ann Med Surg (Lond) 2022; 82:104482. [PMID: 36059596 PMCID: PMC9419440 DOI: 10.1016/j.amsu.2022.104482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Revised: 08/17/2022] [Accepted: 08/19/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Affiliation(s)
| | - Manjil Aryal
- M Abdur Rahim Medical College, Rajshahi University, Dinajpur, Bangladesh
| | - Junu Rana Magar
- Central Institute of Science and Technology, Pokhara University, Kathmandu, Nepal
| | | | - Labiba Hossainy
- Department of Pediatrics, Shaheed Ziaur Rahman Medical College Hospital, Bogra, Bangladesh
| | - Fahmida Hoque Rimti
- Chittagong Medical College, Chittagong, Bangladesh
- Corresponding author. Chittagong Medical College, Chittagong, Bangladesh.
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Ntaji M, Okoye OC, Aigbe F, Ohaju-Obodo J. Knowledge and perception of COVID-19 and its treatment. A community-based survey in South Nigeria. J Public Health Afr 2022; 13:2036. [PMID: 36277942 PMCID: PMC9585596 DOI: 10.4081/jphia.2022.2036] [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: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 05/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Media channels increased COVID-19 pandemic uncertainty and disputes, hindering dissemination and acceptance of evidence-based health information. Socioeconomic, cultural, and developmental factors affect a community's access to credible health information. This community-based study aims to assess semi-urban residents' understanding of COVID-19. Methods This was a cross-sectional study of 384 multistage-sampled residents of the study site. Sociodemographic, psychographic, and COVID-19 and treatment knowledge were obtained using a semistructured questionnaire. Six questions were used to measure knowledge, which was deemed adequate (three or more correct answers) or inadequate (fewer than three correct responses). Results 54 out of 364 responders (14.8%) knew COVID-19. 68.9% of respondents stated citrus fruits or spices, 46.1% mentioned infection safety, and 13.3% mentioned chloroquine for prevention. Regarding treatment, 55.5% of responders reported chloroquine and 20.9% hydroxychloroquine. 17% chose "none of the above." Class I workers were four times more likely to have adequate knowledge than class V workers (p=0.019), while class III workers were 79% less likely (p=0.046). Males had 68%less knowledge than females (p=0.008). Conclusions: In this study, adequate knowledge of COVID-19 was low and associated with higher socioeconomic class.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maureen Ntaji
- Department of Community Medicine, College of Health Sciences, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
- Department of Community Medicine, Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, Nigeria
| | - Ogochukwu C. Okoye
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences. Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
- Nephrology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, Nigeria
| | - Fredrick Aigbe
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences. Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
- Cardiology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, Nigeria
| | - John Ohaju-Obodo
- Department of Internal Medicine, College of Health Sciences. Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria
- Clinical Pharmacology Unit, Department of Internal Medicine, Delta State University Teaching Hospital, Oghara, Nigeria
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Toure A, Camara SC, Camara A, Conde M, Delamou A, Camara I, Bangoura ST, Camara A, Diallo MB, Keita MB, Kourouma K, Camara R, Etard JF, Keita AK. Self-medication against COVID-19 in health workers in Conakry, Guinea. J Public Health Afr 2022; 13:2082. [PMID: 36051529 PMCID: PMC9425936 DOI: 10.4081/jphia.2022.2082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/13/2021] [Accepted: 04/25/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Data regarding the prevalence and consequences of self-medication during the COVID-19 pandemic in Africa are very limited. The study aimed to explore the frequency and risk factors of self-medication against COVID-19 by health personnel in this study. This cross-sectional study took place in June 2021, in Conakry, in the all three national hospitals and the six community medical centers, and five primary health centers. A multivariate logistic regression model was performed to identify factors associated with self-medication. A total of 975 health workers with a median age of 31 (IQR: 27-40) years, with 504 (51.7%) women were included. The majority were clinicians: physicians (33.1%) or nurses (33.1%). Of all, 46.2% reported having had at least one COVID-19 symptom during the 12 months preceding the survey. The proportion of self-medication was 15.3% among national hospital staff, 12.20% in municipality medical centers and 22.6% in primary health centers (p=0.06). More than two-thirds (68.7%) who selfmedicated did not have a test for SARSCoV- 2 infection. They took antibiotics including azithromycin, amoxicillin, ampicillin (42.2%), acetaminophen (37.4%), vitamin C (27.9%), hydroxychloroquine (23.8%) and medicinal plants (13.6%). The median duration of self-medication was 4 days. Fatigue or asthenia, sore throat, loss of smell and sore throat of a close person were independently associated with selfmedication. Health care workers largely practiced self-medication during the Covid pandemic and without diagnostic testing. The results suggest the need for training and sensitization of medical personnel to avoid the consequences of the molecules used, including hepatotoxicity and antibiotic resistance.
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Does Sustainable Consumption Matter? The Influence of the COVID-19 Pandemic on Medication Use in Brasov, Romania. SUSTAINABILITY 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/su14138017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
Sustainable consumption refers to the choice, purchase, use, and disposal of goods so as to enable all people to meet their present and future objective needs. However, panic caused by the gradual onset of the pandemic had a considerable impact on the behavior of consumption and purchase of medication, and the question remains whether sustainable consumption still matters during a crisis or not. The present study aims to analyze whether the pandemic has influenced the behavior of medication use among residents of Brasov County amid panic caused by the virus and to determine the primary sources of information on methods of the prevention and treatment of health conditions. The study focusses on the differences between the two target groups, young people, and adults, considering three socio-demographic factors, such as age, gender, and background. The present research uses two methods of data collection: an interview with 5 doctors and a questionnaire with 543 respondents. This research draws attention to the fact that the behaviors of purchasing and consuming medication during the COVID-19 pandemic has changed due to the spreading of the new virus and the state of emergency, as well as with medication use becoming less sustainable. The results showed that adults were more engaged in the panic buying of medication compared to young people during the pandemic; however, in normal times, young people use more medication. Our study shows that females tend to consume more medicines than males. Moreover, they are more susceptible for seeking media guidance and following advice from the digital realm, because they avoid going to the doctor, especially during the COVID-19 period. Depending on the environment of residence, it was found that people in rural areas generally tend to consume more medication than those in urban areas. However, during the pandemic, the drug use of this category of population has decreased because they do not tend to self-medicate and avoid visiting the doctor because of the fear of becoming contaminated. The results of the research could help to establish measures in order to prevent the panic buying of self-medication and pharmaceuticals, both during pandemics and in normal times, because such behaviors can have negative effects on both health and the environment.
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Prevalence and Correlates of Self-Medication Practices for Prevention and Treatment of COVID-19: A Systematic Review. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11060808. [PMID: 35740214 PMCID: PMC9220378 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11060808] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/28/2022] [Revised: 06/10/2022] [Accepted: 06/15/2022] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
It has been suggested that the COVID-19 pandemic led to an increase in self-medication practices across the world. Yet, there is no up-to-date synthesized evidence on the prevalence of self-medication that is attributable to the pandemic. This study aimed to conduct a systematic literature review on the prevalence and correlates of self-medication for the prevention and treatment of COVID-19 globally. The review was registered with the PROSPERO database. Searches were conducted following PRISMA guidelines, and relevant articles published between 1 April 2020 and 31 March 2022 were included. Pooled prevalence rate was conducted using the Meta package in R. A total of 14 studies from 14 countries, which represented 15,154 participants, were included. The prevalence of COVID-19-related self-medication ranged from 3.4–96%. The pooled prevalence of self-medication for this purpose was 44.9% (95% CI: 23.8%, 68.1%). Medications reported by studies for self-medication were antibiotics (79%), vitamins (64%), antimalarials (50%), herbal and natural products (50%), analgesics and antipyretics (43%), minerals and supplements (43%), cold and allergy preparations (29%), corticosteroids (14%), and antivirals (7%). The prevalence of self-medication with antibiotics is concerning. More public health education about responsible self-medication amidst the COVID-19 pandemic and future pandemics is required to mitigate the rising threat of antimicrobial resistance.
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Self-Medication with Antibiotics during COVID-19 in the Eastern Mediterranean Region Countries: A Review. Antibiotics (Basel) 2022; 11:antibiotics11060733. [PMID: 35740140 PMCID: PMC9219972 DOI: 10.3390/antibiotics11060733] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2022] [Revised: 05/24/2022] [Accepted: 05/24/2022] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Self-treatment with medicines including treatment with antibiotics is a growing global concern, as it can cause public health problems, such as antibiotic resistance and drug toxicity. Therefore, the significance of the self-medication impact of COVID-19 in any region can have an influence on the prevalence of such problems. The review aimed to investigate the self-treatment with antibiotics among the general population in Eastern Mediterranean region countries during COVID-19 pandemic. A comprehensive review of literature in four databases was conducted for the pandemic period from January 2020 to the end of March 2022. Nine studies related to self-treatment with antibiotics were found. The studies were homogeneous in terms of assessing the antibiotic self-treatment usage during the COVID-19 pandemic among the general population and among community pharmacies. The prevalence of self-treatment with antibiotics ranged from 20.8% to 45.8% between the studies. The main reasons for that were cost-saving, fear of COVID-19 infection, quarantine, and ease of accessibility without time limits. Antibiotic self-treatment has been high during the COVID-19 pandemic; however, it was less reported during the study period than before the time of the pandemic. There is a need for more restrictions on dispensing antibiotics from community pharmacies. In addition, there is a need to raise awareness among the population regarding self-treatment with antibiotics.
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Automedicação entre estudantes de graduação do interior do Amazonas. ACTA PAUL ENFERM 2022. [DOI: 10.37689/acta-ape/2022ao000134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
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Yasmin F, Asghar MS, Naeem U, Najeeb H, Nauman H, Ahsan MN, Khattak AK. Self-Medication Practices in Medical Students During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Analysis. Front Public Health 2022; 10:803937. [PMID: 35356012 PMCID: PMC8959567 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2022.803937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2021] [Accepted: 02/07/2022] [Indexed: 12/15/2022] Open
Abstract
Background and ObjectivesDuring the pandemic, the growing influence of social media, accessibility of over-the-counter medications, and fear of contracting the virus may have led to self-medication practices among the general public. Medical students are prone to such practices due to relevant background knowledge, and access to drugs. This study was carried out to determine and analyze the prevalence of self-medication practices among medical students in Pakistan.Materials and MethodsThis descriptive, cross-sectional study was conducted online in which the participants were asked about the general demographics, their self-medication practices and the reasons to use. All participants were currently enrolled in a medical college pursuing medical or pharmacy degree. Non-probability sampling technique was used to recruit participants.ResultsA total of 489 respondents were included in the final analysis. The response rate was 61%. Majority of the respondents were females and 18–20 years of age. Self-medication was quite prevalent in our study population with 406 out of 489 individuals (83.0%) were using any of the drugs since the start of pandemic. The most commonly utilized medications were Paracetamol (65.2%) and multivitamins (56.0%). The reasons reported for usage of these medications included cold/flu, or preventive measures for COVID-19. The common symptoms reported for self-medication included fever (67.9%), muscle pain (54.0%), fatigue (51.7%), sore throat (46.6%), and cough (44.4%). Paracetamol was the most commonly used drug for all symptoms. Female gender, being in 3rd year of medical studies, and individuals with good self-reported health were found more frequent users of self-medication practices.ConclusionOur study revealed common self-medication practices among medical and pharmacy students. It is a significant health issue especially during the pandemic times, with high consumption reported as a prevention or treating symptoms of COVID-19.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farah Yasmin
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Sohaib Asghar
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow University of Health Sciences–Ojha Campus, Karachi, Pakistan
- *Correspondence: Muhammad Sohaib Asghar
| | - Unaiza Naeem
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Hala Najeeb
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Hamza Nauman
- Department of Internal Medicine, Dow Medical College, Dow University of Health Sciences, Karachi, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Nadeem Ahsan
- Department of Nephrology, Dow University of Health Sciences–Ojha Campus, Karachi, Pakistan
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Naseri S, Bijari BB, Dabaghzadeh F, Dahesh T. The prevalence of self-medication in breastfeeding mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic. JOURNAL OF MOTHER AND CHILD 2022; 26:58-65. [PMID: 36537047 PMCID: PMC10032325 DOI: 10.34763/jmotherandchild.20222601.d-22-00021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2022] [Accepted: 07/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/23/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-medication is an important health and social issue, especially for women due to critical periods such as pregnancy and lactation. Accordingly, this study aimed to investigate the use of nonprescribed medications by lactating mothers visiting health centers affiliated to Kerman University of Medical Sciences during the COVID-19 pandemic. MATERIAL AND METHODS This descriptive-analytical cross-sectional study was conducted in Kerman from October to December 2020. The research population included all lactating women who visited health centers affiliated to Kerman University of Medical Sciences to receive health services. The data in this study were collected using a checklist. RESULTS A total of 228 mothers who met the inclusion criteria participated in the study. A total of 221 mothers (97.0%) received nonprescribed medications (377 drugs in total). Among 377 nonprescribed medications, 279 drugs (74.0%) could be used while breastfeeding. The three most commonly used nonprescribed medications were acetaminophen tablets (84 [22.3%]), gelofen compound (51 [13.5%]), and adult cold medications. The majority of the mothers, 153 (40.6%), chose nonprescribed medications based on pharmacy staff recommendations. The COVID-19 outbreak was the most common reason for using 246 (65.3%) nonprescribed drugs. There was a statistically significant relationship between the mothers' education and the accuracy of their information about the side effects of nonprescribed medications use. CONCLUSION The prevalence of self-medication by lactating women during the COVID-19 pandemic was very high. A significant percentage of the mothers did not have correct information about the adverse effect of arbitrary use of nonprescribed drugs on their babies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samaneh Naseri
- Herbal and Traditional Medicines Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | | | - Fatemeh Dabaghzadeh
- Herbal and Traditional Medicines Research Center, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
| | - Tania Dahesh
- Modeling in Health Research Center, Institute for Futures Studies in Health, Kerman University of Medical Sciences, Kerman, Iran
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Medications and Natural Products Used in Jordan for Prevention or Treatment of COVID-19 During the Second Wave of the Pandemic: A Cross-Sectional Online Survey. Saudi Pharm J 2022; 30:856-862. [PMID: 35310539 PMCID: PMC8920079 DOI: 10.1016/j.jsps.2022.03.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2021] [Accepted: 03/10/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
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Gaviria-Mendoza A, Mejía-Mazo DA, Duarte-Blandón C, Castrillón-Spitia JD, Machado-Duque ME, Valladales-Restrepo LF, Machado-Alba JE. Self-medication and the ‘infodemic’ during mandatory preventive isolation due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Ther Adv Drug Saf 2022; 13:20420986221072376. [PMID: 35237406 PMCID: PMC8882931 DOI: 10.1177/20420986221072376] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2021] [Accepted: 12/16/2021] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Aim: Quarantine due to the COVID-19 pandemic altered the supply and demand of
health services. This, together with the ‘infodemic’ and generalized panic,
could alter the patterns of self-medication in the population. The objective
was to characterize the patterns of self-medication in four cities of
Colombia during mandatory preventive isolation in 2020. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study done in four Colombian cities during
mandatory national preventive isolation between June and September 2020. A
sample of 397 adults who responded to an online survey, based on the
Instrument for Systematic Data Collection for Self-medication
(Instrumento de Recolección Sistemática de Datos para la
Automedicación–IRIS-AM), was obtained. The use of social
networks (including WhatsApp) as the source of information about medications
was explored. Results: The 397 people surveyed had a median age of 31.0 years, and 58.2% were women.
The prevalence of self-medication during lockdown was 34.3%
(n = 136). Medications targeting the nervous system
(n = 117; 86.0% of those participants with
self-medication) and the musculoskeletal system (n = 68;
50.0%) were the most commonly used. Ten (7.4%) of the self-medicated
patients reported doing so to prevent COVID-19, and 15 (11.0%) named social
networks as the source of information. Conclusion: More than one-third of the participants reported self-medication during
COVID-19 lockdown, mainly with analgesic-type nervous system medications.
People who reported self-medication to prevent COVID-19 often got their
information from social networks, the Internet, and WhatsApp. Plain Language Summary
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Gaviria-Mendoza
- Grupo de Investigación en Farmacoepidemiología
y Farmacovigilancia, Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira–Audifarma S.A.,
Pereira, Colombia Grupo de Investigación Biomedicina, Fundación
Universitaria Autónoma de las Américas, Pereira, Colombia
| | - Danny Alberto Mejía-Mazo
- Grupo de Investigación en Farmacoepidemiología
y Farmacovigilancia, Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira–Audifarma S.A.,
Pereira, Colombia
| | - Carolina Duarte-Blandón
- Grupo de Investigación en Farmacoepidemiología
y Farmacovigilancia, Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira–Audifarma S.A.,
Pereira, Colombia
| | - Juan Daniel Castrillón-Spitia
- Grupo de Investigación en Farmacoepidemiología
y Farmacovigilancia, Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira–Audifarma S.A.,
Pereira, Colombia Grupo de Investigación Biomedicina, Fundación
Universitaria Autónoma de las Américas, Pereira, Colombia
| | - Manuel Enrique Machado-Duque
- Grupo de Investigación en Farmacoepidemiología
y Farmacovigilancia, Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira–Audifarma S.A.,
Pereira, Colombia Grupo de Investigación Biomedicina, Fundación
Universitaria Autónoma de las Américas, Pereira, Colombia
| | - Luis Fernando Valladales-Restrepo
- Grupo de Investigación en Farmacoepidemiología
y Farmacovigilancia, Universidad Tecnológica de Pereira–Audifarma S.A.,
Pereira, Colombia Grupo de Investigación Biomedicina, Fundación
Universitaria Autónoma de las Américas, Pereira, Colombia
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Dutta S, Kaur RJ, Bhardwaj P, Ambwani S, Godman B, Jha PA, Sukhija S, Venkatesh SS, Lugova H, Islam S, Charan J, Haque M. Demand of COVID-19 medicines without prescription among community pharmacies in Jodhpur, India: Findings and implications. J Family Med Prim Care 2022; 11:503-511. [PMID: 35360769 PMCID: PMC8963618 DOI: 10.4103/jfmpc.jfmpc_1250_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Revised: 09/14/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 02/07/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: COVID-19 pandemic led to increased self-medication of antimicrobials, vitamins, and immune boosters among the common people and consuming without prescription can lead to adverse consequences including antimicrobial resistance. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on community pharmacies in Jodhpur, India. They were inquired regarding the prescription and increased sales (<25%, 25—50%, 50--75%, or 75--100%) of various medicines (Hydroxychloroquine, Azithromycin, Ivermectin, and Vitamin C) during the COVID-19 pandemic. Logistic regression analysis was conducted to assess the relationship between requests for certain COVID-19 medications and an increase in their sale. Results: A total of 204 pharmacies took part, and 88.23% reported patients to approach them without prescriptions. Most of the pharmacies revealed that <25% of patients came without prescription. The majority came for azithromycin (68%) and vitamin C (92%). Increased sales of the four targeted medications were seen by 85.92% of pharmacies compared to last year. A majority (51.5%) reported <25% increased sales of azithromycin, but no change in the sale of hydroxychloroquine and ivermectin. However, 39.6% reported >75% increase in vitamin C sales. Conclusion: There was an increase in the demand for COVID-19 medications without prescription. This study was unable to detect a significant increase in sales of antimicrobials, which is encouraging.
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Affiliation(s)
- Siddhartha Dutta
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Rimple J Kaur
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Pankaj Bhardwaj
- Community and Family Medicine, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Sneha Ambwani
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Brian Godman
- Strathclyde Institute of Pharmacy and Biomedical Sciences, University of Strathclyde, Glasgow G4 0RE, United Kingdom.,Division of Public Health Pharmacy and Management, School of Pharmacy, Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University, Pretoria, South Africa.,School of Pharmaceutical Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Penang, Malaysia
| | - Pallavi A Jha
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Sanchi Sukhija
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Suman S Venkatesh
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Halyna Lugova
- Unit of Community Medicine, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (National Defence University of Malaysia), Kem Perdana Sungai Besi, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
| | - Salequl Islam
- Department of Microbiology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Jaykaran Charan
- Department of Pharmacology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, Jodhpur, Rajasthan, India
| | - Mainul Haque
- Unit of Pharmacology, Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (National Defence University of Malaysia), Kem Perdana Sungai Besi, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
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Affiliation(s)
- Kirsty Brown
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.
| | - Asma Yahyouche
- Institute of Clinical Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Shamil Haroon
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Jenny Camaradou
- University of Birmingham PPI, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - Grace Turner
- Institute of Applied Health Research, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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Self medication practices and its determinants in health care professionals during the coronavirus disease-2019 pandemic: cross-sectional study. Int J Clin Pharm 2022; 44:507-516. [PMID: 35022953 PMCID: PMC8754192 DOI: 10.1007/s11096-021-01374-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2021] [Accepted: 12/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Background The exposure of health care professionals (HCP) to patients with coronavirus disease-2019 (COVID-19) in the course of performing their professional duties may expose them to contracting the virus. This may likely increase their tendency to self-medicate for prevention or treatment of perceived infection. Aim This study determined the prevalence of COVID-19 related self-medication and its determinants among HCPs in three tertiary hospitals in Southern Nigeria. Method This was a cross-sectional study that enrolled 669 adult HCPs from three tertiary hospitals in three Southern Nigerian States using a non-probability convenience sampling method. A structured self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Data entry and analysis were done using IBM SPSS version 22. Results The mean age of the respondents was 35.6 ± 8.7 years. Two hundred and forty-three respondents (36.3%) reported having practiced COVID-19 related self-medication. The commonly used medications were ivermectin, azithromycin, vitamin C, chloroquine and zinc. Factors associated with self-medication were older age (p = < 0.0001), being pharmacist (p = 0.03), higher income (p = < 0.0001), previous COVID-19 testing (p < 0.001). Predictors of self medication were > 44 years (Adjusted Odd Ratio[AOR]:2.77,95% Confidence Interval [CI]: 1.62–4.75, p = < 0.0001), previous COVID-19 testing (AOR = 2.68, 95% CI: 1.82–3.94, p = < 0.0001). Conclusion About one-third of HCPs practiced COVID-19 related self-medication. HCPs that are often assumed to be health literate may not necessarily practice safe health behavior. Regular health education of the HCPs on implications of self-medications is highly recommended. There should also be formulation and effective implementation of policies that regulate purchase of medications.
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Gwenzi W, Selvasembian R, Offiong NAO, Mahmoud AED, Sanganyado E, Mal J. COVID-19 drugs in aquatic systems: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2022; 20:1275-1294. [PMID: 35069060 PMCID: PMC8760103 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-021-01356-y] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2021] [Accepted: 11/02/2021] [Indexed: 05/14/2023]
Abstract
The outbreak of the human coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has induced an unprecedented increase in the use of several old and repurposed therapeutic drugs such as veterinary medicines, e.g. ivermectin, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, protein and peptide therapeutics, disease-modifying anti-rheumatic drugs and antimalarial drugs, antiretrovirals, analgesics, and supporting agents, e.g. azithromycin and corticosteroids. Excretion of drugs and their metabolites in stools and urine release these drugs into wastewater, and ultimately into surface waters and groundwater systems. Here, we review the sources, behaviour, environmental fate, risks, and remediation of those drugs. We discuss drug transformation in aquatic environments and in wastewater treatment systems. Degradation mechanisms and metabolite toxicity are poorly known. Potential risks include endocrine disruption, acute and chronic toxicity, disruption of ecosystem functions and trophic interactions in aquatic organisms, and the emergence of antimicrobial resistance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Willis Gwenzi
- Biosystems and Environmental Engineering Research Group, Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, Faculty of Agriculture, Environment and Food Systems, University of Zimbabwe, P.O. Box MP 167, Mount Pleasant, Harare, Zimbabwe
| | - Rangabhashiyam Selvasembian
- Department of Biotechnology, School of Chemical and Biotechnology, SASTRA Deemed University, Thanjavur, Tamilnadu 613401 India
| | - Nnanake-Abasi O. Offiong
- International Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability Research (ICEESR), University of Uyo, Uyo, Nigeria
- Department of Chemical Sciences, Faculty of Computing and Applied Sciences, Topfaith University, Mkpatak, Nigeria
| | - Alaa El Din Mahmoud
- Environmental Sciences Department, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21511 Egypt
- Green Technology Group, Faculty of Science, Alexandria University, Alexandria, 21511 Egypt
| | - Edmond Sanganyado
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine Science, Shantou University, Shantou, 515063 China
| | - Joyabrata Mal
- Department of Biotechnology, Motilal Nehru National Institute of Technology Allahabad, Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh India
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Kalam MA, Shano S, Afrose S, Uddin MN, Rahman N, Jalal FA, Akter S, Islam A, Anam MM, Hassan MM. Antibiotics in the Community During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Qualitative Study to Understand Users' Perspectives of Antibiotic Seeking and Consumption Behaviors in Bangladesh. Patient Prefer Adherence 2022; 16:217-233. [PMID: 35115769 PMCID: PMC8806049 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s345646] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2021] [Accepted: 01/12/2022] [Indexed: 12/20/2022] Open
Abstract
INTRODUCTION The COVID-19 pandemic is thought to have led to increased "inappropriate" or "unjustified" seeking and consumption of antibiotics by individuals in the community. However, little reference has been made to antibiotic seeking and using behaviors from the perspectives of users in Bangladesh during this health crisis. PURPOSE This study seeks to document how antibiotic medicines are sought and used during a complex health crisis, and, within different contexts, what are the nuanced reasons why patients may utilize these medicines sub-optimally. METHODS We used an exploratory, qualitative design. Forty semi-structured telephone interviews were conducted with people diagnosed with COVID-19 (n=20), who had symptoms suggestive of COVID-19 (n=20), and who had received care at home in two cities between May and June 2021 in Bangladesh. In this study, an inductive thematic analysis was performed. RESULTS The analysis highlighted the interlinked relationships of antibiotic seeking and consumption behaviors with the diversity of information disseminated during a health crisis. Antibiotic-seeking behaviors are related to previous experience of use, perceived severity of illness, perceived vulnerability, risk of infection, management of an "unknown" illness and anxiety, distrust of expert advice, and intrinsic agency on antimicrobial resistance (AMR). Suboptimal adherence, such as modifying treatment regimes and using medication prescribed for others, were found to be part of care strategies used when proven therapeutics were unavailable to treat COVID-19. Early cessation of therapy was found to be a rational practice to avoid side effects and unknown risks. CONCLUSION Based on the results, we highly recommend the take up of a pandemic specific antimicrobial stewardship (AMS) program in the community. To deliver better outcomes of AMS, incorporating users' perspectives could be a critical strategy. Therefore, a co-produced AMS intervention that is appropriate for a specific cultural context is an essential requirement to reduce the overuse of antibiotics during the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Abul Kalam
- Bangladesh Country Office, Helen Keller International, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
- Correspondence: Md Abul Kalam, Helen Keller International, Bangladesh Country Office, Dhaka, 1215, Bangladesh, Tel +8801912408148, Email
| | - Shahanaj Shano
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY, USA
| | | | - Md Nasir Uddin
- Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR), Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Nafis Rahman
- Department of Public Health, American International University of Bangladesh, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Faruk Ahmed Jalal
- Handicap International - Humanity & Inclusion, Dhaka, 1212, Bangladesh
| | - Samira Akter
- Department of Anthropology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, 1243, Bangladesh
| | - Ariful Islam
- EcoHealth Alliance, New York, NY, USA
- Centre for Integrative Ecology, School of Life and Environmental Science, Deakin University, Geelong Campus, Warrnambool, VIC, 3216, Australia
| | - Md Mujibul Anam
- Department of Anthropology, Jahangirnagar University, Savar, Dhaka, 1243, Bangladesh
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Tekeba A, Ayele Y, Negash B, Gashaw T. Extent of and Factors Associated with Self-Medication among Clients Visiting Community Pharmacies in the Era of COVID-19: Does It Relieve the Possible Impact of the Pandemic on the Health-Care System? Risk Manag Healthc Policy 2021; 14:4939-4951. [PMID: 34934370 PMCID: PMC8683580 DOI: 10.2147/rmhp.s338590] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Self-medication is one aspect of self-care that has been shown to benefit primary health care. When done correctly, it provides significant benefits to customers, such as self-reliance and cost savings. Inappropriate methods, on the other hand, such as incorrect self-diagnosis and therapy selection, can be disastrous. The COVID-19 pandemic context may benefit the community in easing the burden on the health system. There have been no studies conducted on this possibility in the context of COVID-19 in a selected area, hence the purpose of this study was to determine the extent of and factors associated with self-medication among clients visiting community pharmacies in west Harerghe, Ethiopia from June 1 to 30, 2020. Methods This institution-based cross-sectional study used a systemic random sample of 416 community-pharmacy clients. To collect data, face-to-face interviews were conducted using pretested semistructured questionnaires modified from established techniques. EpiData 3.1 was used to enter data and SPSS 24 for analysis. To determine factors associated with self-medications, bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were performed. AORs with 95% CIs are used to report associations, and the level of significance was set at P<0.05. Results The proportion of people self-medicating was 73.6% (95% CI 69.2%–77.9%). Self-medications were significantly associated with age 18–24 years (AOR 9.28, 95% CI 3.56–24.21) and 25–34 years (AOR 3.54, 95% CI 1.35–9.27), Amhara ethnicity (AOR 1.72, 95% CI 1.01–2.94), current single status (AOR 0.28, 95% CI 0.15–0.51), government employment (AOR 0.31, 95% CI 0.12–0.82), and limited knowledge (AOR 2.31, 95% CI 1.40–3.79). Conclusion Three in four participants practiced self-medication in the era of COVID-19. Repetition was significantly associated with age, ethnicity, current marital status, type of occupation, and knowledge about self-medications. An alternative medical care–delivery system by all health-care providers and increasing community awareness should be promoted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aklilu Tekeba
- Micheta Community Pharmacy, Daro Lebu Health Office, West Harerghe, Ethiopia
| | - Yohanes Ayele
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Hawassa University, Hawassa, Ethiopia
| | - Belay Negash
- School of Public Health, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
| | - Tigist Gashaw
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, Harar, Ethiopia
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