Prescribing patterns and perceptions of health care professionals about rational drug use in a specialist hospital clinic.

Authors

  • Moses A. Ojo Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital Yaba, Lagos
  • Cecilia I. Igwilo University of Lagos, Lagos
  • Thomas Emedoh Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital Yaba, Lagos

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.4081/jphia.2014.242

Keywords:

drug use indicators, perceptions, rational use, poly-pharmacy.

Abstract

Irrational drug use is associated with adverse consequences including drug resistance and avoidable adverse drug reactions. Studies of rational drug use in psychiatric facilities are scanty. This study evaluated prescription practices and perception of health care professionals regarding causes of irrational drug use. A retrospective study conducted at the outpatient clinic of Federal Neuro- psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Lagos. Data on drug use indicators were analyzed. A cross-sectional assessment of perception of prescribers and dispensers regarding rational drug use was conducted. A total of 600 prescriptions were analyzed. Mean number of drugs per encounter was 3.5 and percentage generic prescribed was 58.5%. Poly-pharmacy (P=0.024, 95% CI=1.082-1.315) and non-generic prescribing (P=0.032, 95% CI=1.495-1.821) were significantly associated with young prescribers. Factors associated with irrational drug use include demand from patients, patients’ beliefs about injection drugs and influence of pharmaceutical sale representatives. Certain aspect of prescribers indicators are still poor in the hospital studied. Health care professionals identified possible associated factors for irrational drug use. Concerted efforts are required to ensure rational drug use especially in psychiatric facilities in Nigeria.
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Author Biography

Moses A. Ojo, Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital Yaba, Lagos

Consutant Psychiatrist

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Published

19-12-2014

How to Cite

Ojo, M. A., Igwilo, C. I., & Emedoh, T. (2014). Prescribing patterns and perceptions of health care professionals about rational drug use in a specialist hospital clinic. Journal of Public Health in Africa, 5(2). https://doi.org/10.4081/jphia.2014.242

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Section

Original Articles