Study on the Availability and Rational Use of Veterinary Drugs in Veterinary Clinics of Haramaya and Dire Dawa Districts, Eastern Ethiopia

Abstract

Aim The study was conducted between December 2021-June 2022 with an objective to assess the current status of veterinary drugs used in veterinary clinics of Dire Dawa and Haramaya districts using a questionnaire, personal interviews, and observations of public veterinary clinics. Method A total number of 40 public veterinary clinics were selected, purposively selected, and included in the study, and veterinary professionals working in each veterinary clinic were conveniently selected by using a non-probability method. The assessment methods such as descriptive drug use indicators, prescribing practices and other drug information sources and drugs of choice at health facilities were included. Results The results obtained were as; a majority of the clinicians (57.5%) were Bachelor of Veterinary Science (BVSc) and above. Nearly half (42.5%) of clinicians used only a verbal prescription for prescribing drugs. Oxytetracycline was available in all clinics and 32(80%) responded as it is their first drug of choice for treatment. Only 50% of the clinicians responded as they administer drugs and treat animals presented to their clinic for a definitive (laboratory investigation) diagnosis. The majority (80%) of respondents use antibacterials for prophylaxis. Major factors considered in drug selection by 92.5% of professionals amongst alternative drugs were its availability. About 98% of respondents use promotion materials or leaflets of different drugs as a source of information. Conclusion The study showed that the trend of using prescription papers for prescribing drugs was not enough and prescription papers did not include the relevant information that should be incorporated in drug ordering and dispensing drug prescriptions by and large based on tentative diagnosis and inappropriate drug selection were found to be bottlenecks for the successful drug treatment that leads to drug resistance. Therefore, awareness and training should be provided regularly for prescribers and end users about the proper way of drug use.