Patient Knowledge and Awareness Regarding Prescribed Medications

Abstract

Background: Patient’s medication knowledge is important for a better outcome, compliance and adherence. Improper information may affect the treatment outcome. Therefore, this work was carried out to evaluate the knowledge in patients regarding their prescribed medications.

Methods: A cross sectional study was carried out in out-patient pharmacy at GCS Hospital, Ahmedabad from January to May 2019. Adult patients (251) were interviewed as per questionnaire and categorised according to their information status regarding disease condition and prescribed medication.

Results: Males and females were 139 (55.4%) and 112 (44.6%) respectively with mean age of 42 years. Patients with no education, primary education, higher education and graduation were 10%, 28%, 45%, 17% respectively. All patients were informed about medication by doctor and pharmacist. Additional source of information were family members and internet. About 45% recalled the appropriate name of drug and 86% graduate patients cross checked their symptoms and/or diagnosis on internet [p<0.05]. Only 24% with higher education discontinued the treatment without guidance. [p>0.05].Tendency to reuse the old prescription was more in higher education and graduate group [p<0.05]. All knew route, frequency and total duration of treatment. None of them were aware about side effects of drugs. Knowledge about indication(s) differed as per education.

Conclusion: Patient’s interest, education, clear instructions from doctors as well as pharmacist are major factors associated with improved awareness regarding use of medicines.