Assessment of OTC drug knowledge among Kasaragod pharmacists.
Journal name: World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research
Original article title: Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice of over-the-counter drugs among community pharmacists in kasaragod
The WJPR includes peer-reviewed publications such as scientific research papers, reports, review articles, company news, thesis reports and case studies in areas of Biology, Pharmaceutical industries and Chemical technology while incorporating ancient fields of knowledge such combining Ayurveda with scientific data.
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Jasmine Shalet D. Souza, Haleema Hashmath, Rinsha Anwer T. P., Shameemath Nazneen and Madheshwaran M.
World Journal of Pharmaceutical Research:
(An ISO 9001:2015 Certified International Journal)
Full text available for: Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice of over-the-counter drugs among community pharmacists in kasaragod
Source type: An International Peer Reviewed Journal for Pharmaceutical and Medical and Scientific Research
Doi: 10.20959/wjpr20242-30625
Copyright (license): WJPR: All rights reserved
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
The study conducted by Jasmine Shalet D. Souza and colleagues focuses on the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs among community pharmacists in Kasaragod, Kerala. OTC drugs are non-prescription medications regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and have seen a rise in usage, especially in India, where self-medication is prevalent. Despite their proven efficacy, there are concerns about the potential for misuse and abuse of these medications. The study aims to assess the KAP among community pharmacists, recognizing their role as frontline health providers who can influence the safe use of OTC drugs.
Knowledge of OTC Drugs
The assessment of the pharmacists' knowledge revealed a generally positive outlook, with 73.7% correctly responding to knowledge-related questions. Notably, 100% were aware that prescription-only drugs require authorized prescriptions, while only 63.5% correctly identified the acronym OTC. The findings highlight gaps in their understanding, particularly regarding the legal recognition of OTC drugs and potential risks associated with them. This underlines the necessity for ongoing education and awareness programs targeted at enhancing pharmacists' understanding of OTC medications, ensuring they can provide accurate information to consumers.
Attitude Towards OTC Drug Misuse
The study exposed a significant concern among pharmacists regarding the misuse of OTC drugs, with 95.2% acknowledging the issue. Despite acknowledging that antibiotics should not be available as OTC due to their misuse potential, many pharmacists do not support the enforcement of an age limit for purchasing OTC drugs. While the community pharmacists exhibit a protective stance on drug misuse, their beliefs should translate into actionable strategies to prevent such misuse in everyday practice. This concern about misuse demonstrates the need for more robust guidelines and training programs for pharmacists to foster responsible dispensing practices.
Practices in Community Pharmacy
Regarding practical habits, the survey showed that 100% of pharmacists asked for prescriptions before dispensing medications and advised patients to consult a physician when necessary. However, only 55.2% indicated that they regularly updated their knowledge about OTC drugs, and a mere 40% reported or suspected adverse drug reactions (ADRs) associated with OTC medication usage. These statistics highlight a positive engagement with patient safety but underscore significant areas for improvement in their ongoing professional development and reporting mechanisms linked to OTC medications.
Conclusion
The study concludes that while community pharmacists possess a foundational level of knowledge about OTC drugs, there is a pressing need for enhanced educational interventions focusing on the safe and rational use of these medications. The pharmacists' understanding, attitudes, and practices highlight the potential impact they have on patient health outcomes through appropriate counseling. Continuous training, coupled with regulatory support, will empower pharmacists to better navigate the challenges associated with OTC drugs, ultimately fostering safer use within the community and enhancing public health initiatives.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the aim of the study conducted in Kasaragod?
The study aims to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs among community pharmacists in the Kasaragod area, particularly focusing on their effect on public health.
How was the data for the study collected?
Data was collected through a cross-sectional questionnaire-based survey distributed to 85 pharmacies in the Kasaragod area. The questionnaire included sections on demographic characteristics, knowledge, attitude, and practice related to OTC drugs.
What were the main findings regarding the pharmacists' knowledge?
The study found that 73.7% of community pharmacists answered knowledge-related questions correctly, indicating a moderately good understanding of OTC drugs and their implications.
What concerns did pharmacists express regarding OTC drug misuse?
The survey revealed that 95.2% of pharmacists are concerned about the misuse of OTC drugs, highlighting the risks associated with self-medication and the potential for health complications.
What recommendations were made for community pharmacists?
The study recommends that community pharmacists improve their knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding OTC medications. Regular training and awareness programs on OTC related issues should be implemented.
How do pharmacists view the safety of OTC drugs?
Despite concerns about misuse, 95.2% of community pharmacists believe that OTC drugs are safe for consumption, pointing to a need for better education on the risks of improper use.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Assessment of OTC drug knowledge among Kasaragod pharmacists.”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Drug:
Drugs collectively refer to chemical substances that can alter physiological functions in the body. The study focuses on OTC drugs, investigating the knowledge, attitude, and practice of community pharmacists regarding these substances, thus emphasizing the importance of responsible dispensing and patient safety.
2) Study (Studying):
The study refers explicitly to the research conducted to evaluate community pharmacists' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding OTC drugs. This phrase indicates the systematic exploration undertaken to gather evidence about pharmacists' roles in healthcare settings, serving as a critical analysis of current practices.
3) Knowledge:
The knowledge references the specific understanding held by pharmacists about OTC drugs in the study. Analyzing 'the knowledge' aspect helps identify gaps or strengths in their training, which directly impacts the advice they offer to patients.
4) Medicine:
Medicines refer to pharmaceutical compounds designed to treat or prevent illnesses. The study evaluates OTC medicines’ role in self-medication practices among the community, underscoring their significance and the potential risks when they are misused or improperly understood by consumers.
5) Table:
In the context of the study, a table typically presents structured data concisely. It aids readers in visualizing statistics regarding demographics, knowledge scores, and the pharmacists' responses, emphasizing the importance of organized data in analyzing results and drawing conclusions from research findings.
6) Kasaragod:
Kasaragod is a district in Kerala, India, where the study was conducted. The geographic focus highlights the local practices and challenges faced by pharmacists in managing OTC drug dispensation, reflecting the regional differences in health awareness and pharmaceutical practices.
7) Misuse:
Misuse entails the incorrect or inappropriate use of substances. In the study, it refers to potential dangers related to OTC medications, emphasizing the need for pharmacist education on the implications of misuse and the importance of advising patients on safe medication practices.
8) Indian:
Indian pertains to the nationality or cultural traits associated with India. In the study, it signifies the context within which OTC medication practices are evaluated, reflecting the unique challenges and healthcare systems present in India regarding drug regulation and public health education.
9) India:
India is the country where the study was performed. Analyzing OTC drug practices within India sheds light on its healthcare dynamics, population behaviors regarding self-medication, and highlights the role of community pharmacists in a rapidly evolving pharmaceutical landscape.
10) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibiotics are substances used to combat bacterial infections. The study discusses the availability and perceptions of OTC antibiotics, emphasizing concerns over misuse and the potential development of antibiotic resistance, crucial topics within contemporary pharmaceutical practices.
11) Education:
Education pertains to the process of imparting knowledge, which is vital for pharmacists regarding OTC drugs. The study emphasizes enhancing educational initiatives to equip pharmacists with the information necessary to guide patients effectively and mitigate improper drug use.
12) Kerala:
Kerala is a state in India known for its advanced healthcare policies and education. In this study, its significance lies in highlighting regional practices and regulations regarding OTC drugs, providing insights into how local culture impacts community health practices.
13) Male:
Male refers to the gender of participants in the study. Understanding the gender distribution among community pharmacists provides insights into workplace demographics and potentially influences the attitudes and practices regarding OTC medication within this specific healthcare sector.
14) Food:
Food pertains to the substances consumed by individuals for nourishment. In the study, it likely contrasts the control over medication use versus dietary habits, emphasizing that both play a vital role in overall health management.
15) Pharmacology:
Pharmacology is the branch of medicine concerned with the study of drugs and their effects on the body. The relevance of pharmacology in the study underscores the importance of scientific knowledge for pharmacists to accurately advise on medications' therapeutic use and risks.
16) Surrounding:
Surrounding pertains to the broader context or environment of the study. In discussing community pharmacists, it highlights how their practice is influenced by local healthcare systems, patient demographics, and resources available to them in Kasaragod and its vicinity.
17) Discussion:
Discussion involves analyzing study findings and their implications. In the study, it serves to interpret results, explore insights about community pharmacists' roles, and suggest recommendations for improving knowledge and practices regarding OTC drugs.
18) Dividing:
Dividing refers to the segmentation of data or concepts for analysis. In the study, it can represent the classification of participants' responses or assessment categories within knowledge, attitude, and practice, which aids in clearer understanding and reporting of results.
19) Disease:
Diseases are pathological conditions affecting health, necessitating treatment. The study addresses common diseases treated with OTC drugs, emphasizing the importance of proper pharmacist guidance in the safe management of such conditions to avoid complications.
20) Science (Scientific):
Sciences denote various fields of study, including pharmacology and public health. The study intersects these sciences, focusing on how knowledge evolves and affects the practice of community pharmacists, ultimately impacting healthcare delivery.
21) Jasmine:
Jasmine refers to the lead researcher, whose contributions are pivotal in conducting the study. It highlights the importance of individual researchers in advancing knowledge in pharmaceutical sciences and providing insights into OTC drug management from a scientific perspective.
22) Khatri:
Khatri might refer to a co-author or researcher involved in the study. Their involvement suggests collaborative effort in tackling relevant pharmaceutical issues, emphasizing the role of teamwork in advancing research and improving community health practices.
23) Malik:
Malik refers to the institution associated with some of the study authors, specifically Malik Deenar College of Pharmacy. Highlighting the institution suggests the academic foundation for the research, thereby relating educational institutions' roles in enhancing pharmaceutical practices.
24) Rules:
Rules refer to regulatory guidelines governing the use of medications. The study emphasizes the importance of compliance with such regulations for safe OTC practice, highlighting the need for awareness among pharmacists regarding legal frameworks in their professional conduct.
25) Fever:
Fever is a common ailment that often prompts self-medication with OTC drugs. The study addresses how pharmacists' knowledge and practices influence the proper management of such conditions, underscoring the need for appropriate advice to ensure patient safety.
26) Pain:
Pain is a significant health concern that often leads individuals to seek OTC medications. The study highlights the pharmacists' role in safely advising patients on the use of these medications to relieve pain, demonstrating the pharmacist's responsibility in effective pain management.
27) Observation:
Observation signifies the act of monitoring or noting particular phenomena. In the scope of the study, it relates to examining pharmacist interactions regarding OTC drug dispensation, serving as a vital component in understanding their role in patient care.
28) Perception:
Perception indicates how pharmacists understand or view OTC drugs. The study investigates their perception, as it affects their practices, revealing insights into their readiness to advise patients responsibly and the general outlook towards self-medication.
29) Toxicity:
Toxicity refers to the harmful effects of substances, including medications. In this study, it underlines the importance of pharmacists recognizing the potential adverse effects of OTC drugs to prevent misuse and ensure patient safety, highlighting their critical role in health education.
30) Gandaki:
Gandaki might refer to a geographical region or educational institution in Nepal. While not directly related to the main study, its inclusion indicates the broader context of pharmacy education and practice, suggesting a multidisciplinary perspective in the evaluation of OTC drug use.
31) Pradhan:
Pradhan may refer to a researcher or author involved in the study. Highlighting individual contributors emphasizes the collaborative nature of research in promoting knowledge regarding pharmacy practices and education surrounding OTC medications.
32) Overuse:
Overuse indicates the excessive utilization of medications which can lead to adverse outcomes. The study discusses the potential for OTC drugs to be overused, drawing attention to the need for pharmacists to educate patients on safe medication practices.
33) Account:
Account signifies the expression of a justified explanation or narrative. In the study, it could relate to how pharmacists account for their practices concerning OTC drugs and the need to relay accurate information to ensure patient safety.
34) Allergy:
Allergy refers to an immune response to substances, often leading individuals to seek OTC treatments for relief. The study's insights into pharmacist knowledge regarding allergies stress the importance of guiding patients on appropriate OTC medication use for management.
35) Andhra (Amdhra):
Andhra refers to Andhra Pradesh, a state in India. While not the main focus of this study, its mention suggests the regional variations in pharmacy practices and highlights the cultural contexts influencing OTC drug handling.
36) Rajput:
Rajput may refer to an author or researcher contributing to the study. Recognizing individual contributions emphasizes the collaborative effort in advancing knowledge surrounding community pharmacists' knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding OTC drugs.
37) Indore:
Indore is a major city in India potentially referenced for comparative analysis regarding OTC practices or pharmacy education. Its mention in the study could highlight regional differences in pharmacist training and OTC drug dabbling.
38) Sharman (Sarma, Sarman, Sharma):
Sharma refers to a collaborator or researcher associated with the study. This highlights the importance of diversified contributions in pharmaceutical research aimed at improving community health outcomes and practices concerning OTC medications.
39) Filling (Filled):
Filled refers to the completion of surveys or data forms in the study. Having filled questionnaires is crucial for valid data collection, emphasizing the importance of participant engagement in assessing pharmacists' knowledge and practices effectively.
40) Doubt:
Doubt signifies uncertainty or lack of conviction. In the study, addressing doubts related to pharmacist knowledge on OTC medications is crucial for promoting education, ensuring they are well-informed to provide accurate guidance to patients.
41) Bindu (Bimdu):
Bindu refers to a researcher involved in the study. Highlighting individual contributors illustrates the collaborative approach essential for addressing complex issues in pharmaceutical care and enhances the understanding of OTC practices.
42) Malla:
Malla might refer to a co-author or researcher involved in the study. Their mention reinforces the collaborative efforts needed to tackle important research topics within pharmacy practice, especially concerning OTC drug usage.
43) Panda (Pamda):
Panda may refer to a co-author or researcher who contributed to the study. Their involvement signifies the importance of diverse academic backgrounds in analyzing pharmacy practices and enhancing education about OTC drugs.
44) Kumar:
Kumar could refer to a researcher involved in the study. Including individual contributions emphasizes teamwork in exploring vital pharmaceutical implications and addressing OTC medication dispensing and guidance.
45) Nayak:
Nayak may refer to a researcher or author affiliated with the study. Their mention illustrates the significance of collaborative efforts in advancing pharmacy research and promoting safe and effective OTC drug practices.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: ‘Assessment of OTC drug knowledge among Kasaragod pharmacists.’. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Adverse effect, Informed consent, Statistical analysis, Public education, Inclusion criteria, Exclusion criteria, Adverse drug reaction, Cross-sectional study, Knowledge, attitude and practice, Pharmaceutical companies, Food and Drug Administration, Self medication, Study duration, Regulatory authorities, Drug information, Pharmacovigilance, Data collection tool, Knowledge assessment, ADR reporting, Healthcare professional, Community pharmacist, Over the counter drug, Attitude assessment, Microsoft Excel, Practice Assessment, Peer Education, Drugs and Cosmetic Act, 1940, Socio-demographic characteristic, Health promotion program.