Medication Knowledge Research Articles

Knowledge and attitudes toward over-the-counter medications among pharmacy students: insights from a cross-sectional study in Taif University, Saudi Arabia

IntroductionOver-the-counter (OTC) medications are those obtained without a medical prescription from a healthcare professional. With the increasing availability of information from various sources, including social media, pharmacy students may be exposed to unreliable or inaccurate data. Incorrect medication use is particularly concerning due to its potential risk of causing adverse health effects.” Hence, this study aims to determine students’ knowledge and attitudes at Taif University’s pharmacy college.MethodsThis research utilized a cross-sectional online questionnaire-based study, employing data from a sample of 450 pharmacy students from Taif University in Saudi Arabia. Descriptive analysis included descriptive and differential analysis. The data were analyzed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) Version 27.ResultsThe majority of participants, 297 (88.2%), were aware that inappropriate use of over-the-counter medications might have negative implications. A total of 233 participants (51.8%) reported having previously used an OTC medication. Also, 293 (65.1%), were aware that using OTC medications beyond their expiration date was harmful. A total of 280 participants (62.2%) had a high knowledge of OTC medication, whereas 170 respondents (37.8%) had a low level of knowledge. A significant correlation was found between age, year of study, and the use of OTC medication p-values <0.05 (0.016*, 0.003*, and 0.001* respectively) and understanding of OTC medication. Gender had no significant influence on knowledge of OTC (p > 0.05).ConclusionThe study found positive attitudes toward OTC medications. Due to increased pharmaceutical exposure and self-medication, upper-year students and OTC course graduates comprehend OTC medications better. The examination found safety protocol violations in expiration dates, prescription label interpretation, and storage. Therefore, the study provides useful information for future attempts. Also, this study may contribute to the literature and guide future research to fill knowledge gaps.

Healthcare provider-related perceptions toward deprescribing inappropriate medications among older adult outpatients.

To examine healthcare provider-related perceptions toward deprescribing inappropriate medications among older adults. A cross-sectional, correlational study used a convenience sample of outpatient older adults to measure their perception toward deprescribing using a Patient's Perceptions of Deprescribing (PPoD), which include 57 multiple-choice questions related to patients' sociodemographic data, health, medicines, healthcare providers, and experience of care provided by the clinic. Data were collected by a graduate nursing student from one pharmacy in a public hospital, five days per week, via in-person interviews. Data were analyzed for 200 participants. The level of patient collaboration with their primary care providers (PCPs) is linked to their trust in PCPs, beliefs about medication use, PCP knowledge, and medication concerns (p < .0001). Patient involvement in medication deprescribing decision-making is also associated with trust in PCPs and willingness to stop a medication (p < .0001). Additionally, trust in PCPs is related to patient involvement in decision-making, PCP knowledge, general health, collaboration with PCPs, and receiving conflicting information about a medicine (p = .010). Lastly, PCP medication knowledge is associated with trust in PCPs, views on the importance of medicines, medication concerns, seeking help with medicines, interactions with clinical pharmacists, and being advised by a clinical pharmacist to discontinue medication (p < .0001). The study found that older adults' trust in their PCP, collaboration with their PCP, involvement in the decision-making of deprescribing, and knowledge about medication are associated with clinical and medicine-related factors. Therefore, PCPs should discuss the benefits of deprescribing inappropriate medications to prevent long-term side effects. Future studies should focus on the effectiveness of evidence-based deprescribing protocols for older adults.

Avoiding anti-inflammatories: a randomised controlled trial testing the effect of an eHealth information package on primary healthcare patient medication knowledge and behaviour in Aotearoa New Zealand

BackgroundPatient medication knowledge and health literacy affect patient safety. Taking angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-i) or angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), with diuretics and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs) is nephrotoxic. Patients...

Evaluation of public's knowledge, attitude and experiences towards the generic medications in building healthcare policy.

The increasing cost of prescription drugs has high concern and associated with medication nonadherence and adverse health outcomes. The use of generic prescription drugs by the patients depends on if recommended by competent healthcare providers. Generic medicines, which are cheaper and bioequivalent to brand-name drugs, offer an opportunity to reduce healthcare expenditures of Saudi Arabia's healthcare system as per the Vision 2030 plan. Therefore, the current study was conducted to assess the population awareness, attitude and perception towards the generic medications particularly those locally manufactured in Saudi Arabia. We managed a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study and included indices like demographic sections, knowledge of generic medications, perception of generic medication use, and previous experience. Data was collected over 12 weeks from February 2022 to April 2022 using an online survey tool. A study of 462 participants found that the majority were male (54.97%), young (55.4%), with a graduate or post-graduate degree (73.5%) and employed (43.29%). The majority reported good health, with 75.5% reporting good health. The study found significant differences in knowledge about generic drugs, their country of origin, and their benefits and utility. Most participants had positive attitudes towards generic medications, with 45% believing they are as effective as those from other countries. The study also revealed a significant difference in participants' experience and usage of medications particularly satisfaction to health outcome. Enhancing healthcare professionals' perceptions of generics can positively influence patient/consumer opinions and trust in generic medicines. Patients' high trust in prescribing physicians also influences these opinions, as their opinions can influence patient/consumer opinions.

Assessment of enoxaparin‐related knowledge, administration technique, and self‐reported adherence among women after caesarean section delivery

AbstractBackgroundVenous thromboembolism is among the main causes of maternal morbidity and mortality, with caesarean section (CS) delivery carrying greater risk. Outpatient thromboprophylaxis, such as enoxaparin, is administered subcutaneously and prescribed as an outpatient; raising the issue of medication adherence.AimThis study aimed to evaluate women's adherence to enoxaparin administration after CS delivery, explore the reasons for non‐adherence, and assess the factors associated with patients' adherence to enoxaparin.MethodWomen after CS delivery, who had been given enoxaparin at discharge were included in the study. Eligible patients were contacted via telephone at the middle and the end of the enoxaparin treatment. Syringe count determined the main outcome of adherence during direct telephone interviews with the patient. Optimal adherence was defined as all the doses of enoxaparin being administered and suboptimal adherence was at least one dose not administered. Ethical approval was granted by the Malaysian Registry Ethics Committee belonging to National Medical Research Registry (Reference no: NMRR ID‐22‐02859‐P41) and the study conforms with the Declaration of Helsinki. Informed consent was obtained from all participants through completion of written consent forms, after an explanation of the study was provided by investigators.ResultsOut of 201 women included, the majority (91.5%) were fully adherent to enoxaparin, while 8.5% missed at least one dose. Most patients administering at home missed the dose due to reporting they were unwell (n = 6), busy (n = 4), or forgot to administer (n = 2). Among missed doses in patients administered in a healthcare setting, all participants (n = 5) forgot to bring their medication to the appointment. Only medication knowledge had a significant association with adherence to enoxaparin administration (p = 0.008).ConclusionThe study raised concern about the substantial percentage of patients missing at least one dose of enoxaparin, particularly among patients injecting at home. Initiatives should focus on customised enoxaparin administration counselling and providing educational materials.

Medication-induced changes on magnetic resonance imaging of the brain.

In this review the authors focus on abnormal brain magnetic resonance imaging caused by drugs given to patients in any age group for any disease. The review includes viral infections with fever in children/infections in general, epilepsy, psychiatric diseases, multiple sclerosis, neoplasms, bone marrow/organ transplantations, total parenteral nutrition, vaccinations, oral contraceptives and other prothrombotic drugs, and gadolinium deposition. Knowledge of patients' diseases and medications they receive is crucial to establish the correct diagnosis. The absence of these data in a referral for a brain MRI scan can result in completely wrong suspicions and unleash unnecessary, complicated, time-consuming and expensive diagnostics, causing additional stress in patients and their guardians.

Adherence and Knowledge among Geriatric Cardiac Patients

BACKGROUND: Non-adherence to medication is a public health problem that affects every age group, but geriatric patients are particularly at risk because they face a high likelihood of disease, cognitive decline, and polypharmacy. AIM: In this study, we evaluated the knowledge of prescribed medication and adherence to medication regimens among geriatric cardiac patients in Saudi Arabia. METHODS: We interviewed 750 geriatric patients at the cardiac center of King Fahad Medical City. We assessed their knowledge about their medications using the Medication Knowledge Assessment questionnaire and a validated Arabic version of The Medication Adherence Report Scale (MARS‐5). We analyzed the relationship between their knowledge of medication and their adherence to it. We assessed how well these patients understood the information given to them by their healthcare providers. RESULTS: The estimated mean rate of adherence to long-term medication regimens was 56%. There was a positive relationship between knowledge and adherence. CONCLUSION: Geriatric patients in Saudi Arabia have low overall adherence to medication regimens, and patients with higher knowledge levels are more adherent. Geriatric patients should receive detailed counseling from their care providers to ensure better adherence.

Association Between Quality of Life and Drug Adherence Among Patients With Diabetes in India.

Diabetes represents a significant global health concern. Effective diabetes management necessitates substantial behavioral and psychological modifications, including regular glucose monitoring, dietary adjustments, and medication adherence. However, treatment adherence remains suboptimal, particularly in developing countries, leading to poor glycaemic control, increased healthcare costs, and diminished quality of life (QoL). Common factors influencing medication nonadherence include lack of medication knowledge, age, education of patients, polypharmacy, duration of disease, cost of therapy, complexity of dosing regime, and the presence of comorbidities. So, the study aims to assess the adherence status to antidiabetic medication and its association with QoL among diabetes patients in the Anand district of Gujarat state. A study was carried out in Anand district, Gujarat, from 2023 to 2024, focusing on community-based cross-sectional research. In the eight blocks of Anand district, a two-stage cluster sampling method was utilized, with one village or town randomly chosen from each taluka, and 25 diabetes patients interviewed per area. Data collection involved visiting 200 participants' houses, starting with a randomly selected house and continuing until the target was met. The interviews, conducted in the local language, lasted around 45 minutes and utilized a pre-validated and pretested questionnaire. The questionnaire covered demographic details, disease characteristics, and medication adherence using the semi-structured scale from Adherence to Refills and Medications Scale (ARMS-D), as well as the assessment of QoL using the WHOQoL-BREF questionnaire. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. Sociodemographic attributes were presented in terms of percentages (%) and frequencies (N). The means and standard deviation (SD) of health-related QoL and adherence to anti-diabetic medication were reported. Multiple linear regression analysis was used to assess the impact of adherence to antidiabetic medication within each QoL area after adjusting for a few sociodemographic variables. P values below 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The study included predominantly older participants (58.1 years) with 53.5% being male. Most participants (65.5%) had diabetes for more than 5 years, 60.0% had comorbidities, and 29.0% experienced complications. Nonadherence to treatment was observed in 37.0% of patients. The study found that factors like age, education, occupation, family history of diabetes, smoking, alcohol consumption, exercise habits, and medication adherence significantly influenced the QoL in diabetic patients, with medication adherence showing the strongest positive association with all QoL domains. This study shows a high percentage of nonadherence to antidiabetic medications. Poor adherence had significantly lower mean scores across all domains of QoL. Community-based educational programs targeting older and less-educated individuals should promote regular physical activity. Developing strategies to improve medication adherence and ensuring affordable access to essential medications, along with prioritizing enhancements in the QoL through psychosocial support and lifestyle counseling are imperative for diabetic patients.

Patients’ knowledge of the indications for their medications – a scoping review

BackgroundInadequate medication knowledge may contribute to inappropriate medication use and treatment harms. We aimed to map and synthesise the existing evidence on patients’ knowledge of the indications for their medications.MethodWe searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsychInfo and the Cochrane Library for studies that assessed patients’ knowledge of the indications for their medications from inception to June 16, 2022. A pair of reviewers independently screened and extracted data on study characteristics, aims, and methods used to assess and report patients’ knowledge of the indications for their medications.ResultsWe included 99 studies conducted in 33 countries, published between 1979 and 2021, with 42,377 participants in total (median 126 participants [Interquartile range: 63–338]). Studies were observational (n = 77), experimental (n = 18), or qualitative interviews (n = 4). The exact question used to assess knowledge of the indications was reported in 27 studies and was phrased in 25 different ways. Knowledge of the indications was reported as a proportion of either 1) all participants (n = 65) or 2) the total number of medications used by all patients (n = 13). Sixteen studies used both reporting methods, while five only reported a proportion without specifying the denominator. Fourteen studies in various populations reported the number of participants with correct knowledge of all their medications, ranging from 19% (long-term psychiatric in-patients) to 87% (general practice patients).ConclusionWe did not identify any established scientific standard for assessing patients’ knowledge of the indications for their medications. The wide range of study methodologies and reporting styles observed call for a methodological consensus in this research field. Estimates of correct knowledge varied widely between studies, but whether this was due to differences in study populations or study methodology could not be determined. Furthermore, we did not identify any study investigating whether participants’ knowledge of the indications for their medications was associated with the quality, e.g. appropriateness, of their treatment.

Medication Self-Management for Home Care Users Receiving Multidose Drug Dispensing: Qualitative Interview Study.

Multidose drug dispensing (MDD) is an adherence aid where medicines are machine-dispensed in disposable unit bags, usually for a 14-day period. MDD replaces manually filled dosettes in many home care services in Norway. While evidence suggests that MDD can improve medication adherence and reduce errors, there are few studies on how patients manage MDD at home and how this affects their daily routines. The aim of the study is to identify factors influencing medication self-management behavior among MDD users living at home and explore how MDD affects medication self-management. We conducted semistructured interviews with 19 MDD users in Oslo between August 2019 and February 2020. The interviews were held at the participants' homes, and the interview transcripts were analyzed thematically. All participants in the study received some form of assistance with medication management from home care services. This assistance ranged from MDD delivery every other week to actual assistance with medication administration multiple times daily. However, regardless of the level of assistance received, participants primarily managed their MDD medications themselves. Daily medication routines and knowledge about medicines varied among the participants, with some taking an active role in their medication management, while others relied on others to take responsibility. The degree of involvement seemed determined by motivation rather than capability. MDD can support medication self-management, but its effectiveness varies among patients. The level of medication management by MDD users is not solely determined by their actual capabilities. Factors such as interest in self-care and independence, available support, information, and cognitive capacity all play a role in determining the degree of autonomy.

Medical-Knowledge-Based Graph Neural Network for Medication Combination Prediction.

Medication combination prediction (MCP) can provide assistance for experts in the more thorough comprehension of complex mechanisms behind health and disease. Many recent studies focus on the patient representation from the historical medical records, but neglect the value of the medical knowledge, such as the prior knowledge and the medication knowledge. This article develops a medical-knowledge-based graph neural network (MK-GNN) model which incorporates the representation of patients and the medical knowledge into the neural network. More specifically, the features of patients are extracted from their medical records in different feature subspaces. Then these features are concatenated to obtain the feature representation of patients. The prior knowledge, which is calculated according to the mapping relationship between medications and diagnoses, provides heuristic medication features according to the diagnosis results. Such medication features can help the MK-GNN model learn optimal parameters. Moreover, the medication relationship in prescriptions is formulated as a drug network to integrate the medication knowledge into medication representation vectors. The results reveal the superior performance of the MK-GNN model compared with the state-of-the-art baselines on different evaluation metrics. The case study manifests the application potential of the MK-GNN model.

Comparison of the effects of medication error encouragement training and problem-based scenario on the medication safety competence and knowledge of nursing students: A quasi-experimental study

BackgroundMedication errors among nursing students pose a threat to medication safety. Medication Error Encouragement Training and Problem Based Scenario are two innovative educational methods used in medication education. AimCompare the effects of Medication Error Encouragement Training and Problem Based Scenario on the knowledge and competency of medication safety among nursing students. DesignQuasi -experimental, double-blind, two-group pretest-posttest study. MethodThis study was conducted in 2023. Participants were randomly assigned to two groups: one group received the Medication Error Encouragement Training method, while the other group was taught using the Problem-Based Scenario method. Data collection was performed using the Medication Safety Critical Element Checklist and Medication Safety Knowledge Assessment before and four weeks after the intervention. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 16. ResultsThe Pair t-test demonstrated that the change in competency and knowledge scores of medication safety before and after the intervention was significant in both groups (P< 0.05). The results of the Mancova test indicated a significant increase in medication safety competency scores in the Medication Error Encouragement Training group compared with the Problem Based Scenario group after the intervention (P< 0.05), while there was no significant difference in medication safety knowledge scores between the two groups after the intervention (P> 0.05). ConclusionThe Medication Error Encouragement and Problem Based Scenario methods were effective in increasing the knowledge and competency of medication safety among students, but the effectiveness of the Medication Error Encouragement method was more pronounced in achieving safe medication administration.

The Association Between Knowledge of Hypertension and Compliance with Antihypertensive Medication on Prospective Hajj Pilgrims

Background: Indonesia is the most significant contributor to Hajj pilgrims, with health risks that are still relatively high, one of which is Hypertension. Lack of knowledge about Hypertension is an obstacle to controlling Hypertension. In addition, half of hypertension-related deaths could be prevented by compliance with taking antihypertensive medication. Objective: This study sought to determine the association between prospective Hajj pilgrims' compliance with medication and their knowledge of hypertension in 2023 who suffer from Hypertension in Batu City. Method: The research used quantitative methods with a cross-sectional design. The sample for this research was 39 Prospective Hajj pilgrims, and total sampling was taken. Result: The results of the study on Prospective Hajj pilgrims who suffer from Hypertension in Batu City showed that the majority of their knowledge about Hypertension was in a good category, 23 people (59.0%), the level of compliance with taking medication was in the low sort 24 people (61.5%); There was no correlation between medication adherence and knowledge of hypertension (p-value 0.185). Conclusion: Non-compliance with taking medication prospective Hajj pilgrims in Batu City can be changed by regularly providing education about the importance of taking medication and the risks that can arise if they do not regularly take hypertension medication

A Systematic Review Of Medication Knowledge In Older Adults

Abstract Background Medication knowledge, as defined by six aspects, is the person's awareness of their medication name, dose, purpose, adverse drug reaction (ADR), administration schedule and special instructions, is essential in the older patient's treatment journey. This review aimed to assess medication knowledge in older adults. Methods A systematic search of six electronic databases, grey literature and citation indexes included studies conducted in any setting or any country on those 65 or older, published over the last ten years, reporting primary data with full-text access, and assessing patients' six aspects of medication knowledge. Joanna Briggs Institute Critical appraisal tool was used to evaluate quality of studies. Results Of the 67871 articles searched, only 10 cross-sectional studies were included. Medication knowledge data was collected from pharmacies, community, general practices and outpatient clinics. Surveys used face-to-face interviews and electronic, written, and mail questionnaires. Five studies assessed knowledge on single medications. None assessed all six aspects of medication knowledge. One study assessed five aspects, while the rest assessed fewer aspects. The percentage of those who knew their medication names ranged from 41.9% to 97%, dose 19.4%, purpose 15% to 90%, administration schedule 65% to 92.6%, ADR 42% to 80% and special instructions 32.4% to 94.8%. Data lacked the source of medication knowledge or evidence of a patient-centred care approach. There were repeated calls for further education and research. Conclusion Research indicates that older adults have a mixed knowledge of their medications, with some areas well grasped and others lacking. Additionally, it appears that medication knowledge is not thoroughly evaluated initially. Despite ongoing advice to employ all six aspects of medication knowledge for assessment and education enhancement, no progress is seen in older adults' medication knowledge. Therefore, there's a need for better research that anticipates the application of these six aspects, concentrating on education for older adults or their caregivers through patient-centred methods.

Pulsatile Drug Delivery System: A Review

As modern technologies advance, new methods of drug delivery systems are constantly being developed. Pulsatile drug delivery system is becoming increasingly popular because it can deliver the drug at the correct location, time, and dosage, improving patient adherence. These technologies are designed to align with the body's inherent circadian rhythm. Pulsatile drug release is mainly preferred when continuous drug release is not needed. Understanding the circadian clock's design, illness rhythm pathophysiology, and chrono pharmacology’s medication knowledge helps create and utilize chronotherapeutic dosage forms for effective disease treatment, reducing side effects, improving targeted drug delivery, and maintaining consistent dosing. Proper design of pulsatile drug delivery enhances patient adherence, targets drug distribution, and decreases side effects. Like many other medical conditions, the outlook for chronotherapy using pulsatile drug delivery seems very optimistic. Pulsatile drug delivery systems can utilize either one or multiple mechanisms to administer medication at a specific time and location. Formulation of pulsatile flow is achieved by incorporating different polymers, with the thickness of the coating layer dictating the speed of release of the active medicinal ingredient.

Understanding Indian Doctors’ Attitudes Toward Alcohol Pharmacotherapy and Prescription: A Mediational Analysis

Background: Alcohol use disorder (AUD) causes significant morbidity and mortality. Prescription of AUD pharmacotherapies remains low. Attitudes toward AUD pharmacotherapies influence their prescription rates. We conducted an online survey to assess how attitudes modulate the association between knowledge and prescription rates for four commonly used AUD medications among Indian clinicians. Methods: An online survey was sent nationwide to Indian physicians between February and April 2023 to assess knowledge, attitudes, and practices of various AUD medications. An a priori model was defined to indicate the relationship between study variables. Bootstrapped correlation analysis was conducted to determine confidence intervals of the correlation coefficients between knowledge, attitudes, and prescription practices. Additional subgroup analysis was conducted for faculty and private psychiatrists to assess if they prescribed differently. Results: A total of 387 physicians responded to the survey. Bootstrapped correlation analysis indicated that safety and acceptability played a moderated prescription rates for acamprosate and naltrexone while they mediating role among faculty. For Disulfiram, perceived efficacy had a mediating effect, especially among private psychiatrists. Among faculty, perceived safety negatively mediated Disulfiram prescriptions. There was no indirect effect of attitudes on the association between knowledge and prescription practices for Baclofen. Conclusion: The role of attitudes varied across medications. For acamprosate and naltrexone, perceived safety and acceptability significantly moderated prescription rates. For Disulfiram, perceived efficacy played a significant mediating effect. Attitudes did not influence Baclofen prescriptions as a whole, but acceptability significantly mediated prescriptions for private psychiatrists. This might indicate that physicians prescribe Baclofen as an ineluctable option.

Impact of health literacy-conscious medication educational videos on primary medication nonadherence rates

BackgroundPrimary medication nonadherence (PMN) occurs when a new medication is prescribed, but the patient does not obtain the medication, or an appropriate alternative. Medication knowledge may be a factor contributing to high PMN rates. A variety of approaches and technologies have been developed to enhance patient medication knowledge, though the impact of these interventions on PMN rates has not been studied. ObjectivesThe objectives of this study were to: 1) compare community pharmacy PMN rates between pharmacies that offer patient medication educational video services and those that do not, and 2) assess the relationships between video service delivery and PMN status. MethodsThis cohort study utilized data from 6 pharmacies (3 case and 3 control). Adult individuals with a new electronic prescription for medications were assessed for PMN using the Pharmacy Quality Alliance measure specifications. A 6-month measurement period was used to assess if medications or an appropriate alternative were dispensed within 30 days. Descriptive statistics were used to evaluate differences in PMN rates between case and control pharmacies. The relationships between medication education video service use and PMN status were assessed using multivariable logistic regression models. ResultsA total of 4038 patients were included in the analyses, contributing 6311 prescriptions for PMN assessment. Case pharmacies had significantly lower (25.9% vs. 29.1%) PMN rates than control pharmacies (P = 0.0090). Prescriptions filled at pharmacies that utilized medication educational videos had lower odds of PMN status [odds ratio (OR) = 0.58 (0.43, 0.78)] than controls. Video use was associated with lower odds of PMN status [OR = 0.83 (0.70, 0.98)] when compared to prescriptions where patients did not receive the service. ConclusionsThe use of health literacy-conscious, patient educational videos were associated with improved (lower) PMN rates. Medication education technologies represent a scalable solution to improve PMN and medication access.

Continuity of medication information transfer and continuous medication supply during hospital-to-home transitions - nationwide surveys in hospital and community pharmacies after implementing new legal requirements in Germany

BackgroundWhile successful information transfer and seamless medication supply are fundamental to medication safety during hospital-to-home transitions, disruptions are frequently reported. In Germany, new legal requirements came into force in 2017, strengthening medication lists and discharge summaries as preferred means of information transfer. In addition to previous regulations – such as dispensing medication at discharge by hospital pharmacies – hospital physicians were now allowed to issue discharge prescriptions to be supplied by community pharmacies. The aim of this survey study was to gain first nationwide insights into how these requirements are implemented and how they impact the continuity of medication information transfer and continuous medication supply.MethodsTwo nationwide self-administered online surveys of all hospital and community pharmacies across Germany were developed and conducted from April 17th to June 30th, 2023.ResultsOverall, 31.0% (n = 111) of all German hospital pharmacies and 4.5% (n = 811) of all community pharmacies participated. The majority of those hospital pharmacies reported that patients who were discharged were typically provided with discharge summaries (89.2%), medication lists (59.5%) and if needed, discharge prescriptions (67.6%) and/or required medication (67.6%). About every second community pharmacy (49.0%) indicated that up to half of the recently discharged patients who came to their pharmacy typically presented medication lists. 34.0% of the community pharmacies stated that they typically received a discharge summary from recently discharged patients at least once per week. About three in four community pharmacies (73.3%) indicated that most discharge prescriptions were dispensed in time. However, one-third (31.0%) estimated that half and more of the patients experienced gaps in medication supply. Community pharmacies reported challenges with the legal requirements – such as patients´ poor comprehensibility of medication lists, medication discrepancies, unmet formal requirements of discharge prescriptions, and poor accessibility of hospital staff in case of queries. In comparison, hospital pharmacies named technical issues, time/personnel resources, and deficits in patient knowledge of medication as difficulties.ConclusionAccording to the pharmacies´ perceptions, it can be assumed that discontinuation in medication information transfer and lack of medication supply still occur today during hospital-to-home transitions, despite the new legal requirements. Further research is necessary to supplement these results by the perspectives of other healthcare professionals and patients in order to identify efficient strategies.

Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Of Self Medication (Self Drugs Prescription) Among Students In Al-Qadisiyah University/ College Of Medicine

Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Of Self Medication (Self Drugs Prescription) Among Students In Al-Qadisiyah University/ College Of Medicine

Assessing the Awareness of Psychotropic Medications Among the Saudi Population: Benefits, Risks, and Prevalence.

Background Mental health treatment, particularly through psychotropic medications, is becoming increasingly prominent worldwide. In Saudi Arabia, the acceptance and understanding of these treatments are shaped by unique cultural and social factors. Despite some awareness, there remains a need for deeper insights into the public's perceptions and knowledge of psychotropic medications. This study aims to examine the awareness levels of psychotropic medications among the Saudi population, their perceived benefits and risks, the prevalence of their use, and any demographic differences in these perceptions. Methods Employing a quantitative, cross-sectional design, this study collected data via an online questionnaire from Saudi residents aged 18 and above. The questionnaire, validated by experts, covered demographic details, awareness and knowledge of psychotropic medications, and personal or vicarious experiences with these medications. Data analysis was performed using SPSS (IBM Corp., Armonk, NY, USA), applying descriptive and inferential statistics to provide a comprehensive view of the current landscape. The study was conducted over four weeks, from May 1, 2024, to May 31, 2024. Results The study indicated a demographic skew towards younger individuals, with a significant predominance of female respondents (70.86%, n=1024). A notable 63.52% (n=922) of participants reported being aware of psychotropic medications. Regarding knowledge, 37.83% (n=549) of respondents were somewhat knowledgeable about the benefits, while 37.57% (n=545) were somewhat knowledgeable about the risks. The prevalence of use was reported by 41.92% (n=608) of respondents, mainly through acquaintances rather than personal use. Younger, predominantly female, and well-educated individuals demonstrated higher levels of awareness and acceptance of psychotropic medications. Significant variations in perceptions were observed based on age, gender, and educational level. Respondents aged 18-24 years (52.52%, n=762) were significantly more likely to be aware of psychotropic medications (p < 0.01), and female respondents showed a higher acceptance rate (p < 0.05). Educational level also played a crucial role, with college-educated individuals (63.38%, n=919) displaying greater acceptance and awareness compared to those with only a high school education (28.24%, n=409) (p < 0.01). The general opinion on the effectiveness and adequacy of public information about psychotropic medications was mixed, with 52.93% (n=768) acknowledging their benefits while 31.92% (n=463) expressed concerns about side effects, indicating a need for improved public education. Conclusion The study emphasizes the importance of enhancing public education and awareness initiatives to improve knowledge and acceptance of psychotropic medications in Saudi Arabia. This could lead to better mental health outcomes and broader acceptance of these treatment options.