Consumer perception and experience regarding medicine packaging systems: A survey of medicine dispensing for outpatients

Abstract

Background Prescription unit packaging (PUP) and unit-of-dose packaging (UDP) are two types of medicine packaging systems utilized in hospital pharmacies across Indonesia. However, UDP is generally not used for outpatients. Objectives The purpose of this study was to investigate consumer perception and experience of the use of medicines in a packaging system for outpatients. Methods A cross-sectional descriptive study with quantitative and qualitative components was performed. A questionnaire about medicine distribution systems, involving packaging and usage was distributed from August to November 2018. During the same time frame, interviews were performed to identify participants’ experiences when using drugs that were distributed and packaged using the PUP system. Key findings: A total of 104 participants completed the questionnaire. Although 52.9% of the participants did not experience difficulties when using medicines distributed in PUP, 68.2% of participants preferred to use medicines in UDP. The reason for their choice of UDP was its practical use (80.8%), particularly if the medicine was taken when traveling (78.9%). Participants reported that UDP was very practical and helpful for geriatric patients, as UDP enables elderly people to use their medicine appropriately. Furthermore, they reported that UDP reminded consumers of the time to take their medicine. The problems with UDP were the number of packages and unfamiliarity. Conclusions Medicine was preferred in UDP by consumers but the model needs to be adapted to outpatients.