Investigation of descriptions of dosage and usage of oral liquid preparations of Chinese materia medica and public understanding degree

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the dosage and usage instructions of over-the-counter(OTC) oral liquid preparation of Chinese materia medica,and evaluate understanding degree and operation accuracy of the public.Methods:Package inserts of OTC oral liquid preparations of Chinese materia medica,which were commonly used in hospital,were recorded and analyzed.One hundred and thirty-six kinds of medicines were involved in this investigation,including 91 kinds of single dosage and 45 kinds of multiple dosage preparations.Fifty-two outpatients were selected randomly and investigated for understanding degree of dosage instructions and the operation accuracy.Results:Among 91 kinds of single dose package preparations,78 kinds were measured by international unit milliliter in Chinese,one kind was measured by the symbol for the unit "ml",21 kinds were measured by the package unit "ampoule".Among 45 multiple dosage preparations,43 kinds were measured by international unit milliliter in Chinese,2 kinds were measured by the symbol for the unit "ml",and only 11 kinds provided a dosing cup with package.Forty-two outpatients(81%) knew the measuring volume unit,10 outpatients(19%) could recognize the symbol "ml".Forty-nine outpatients(94%) could use dosing cup accurately.But error rate was high when determining the dosage by using graduation on the vessel.Conclusion:Labeling dose instruction variability presents a challenge to consumers' understanding and operation,and the possibility of a medication dosing error.Package inserts of OTC should be promoted in popularity and practicability.Perfect package and dosing cup are needed.Meanwhile pharmacists should strive for providing understandable information,and ensure safe use of medication.