Journal of Innovation in Science, Engineering and Technology
Abstract
The usage of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs all over the world is high, despite many regulatory guidelines. Therefore, this study was conducted to quantitative and qualitative analysis of the dispensing pattern of OTC drugs. A cross-sectional study was carried out for seven days at selected pharmacies and data was recorded using data sheets available at outlets. During the study period, 75 registered medicines were dispensed as OTC drugs. Of them, 40% were dispensed in age below 25, 35% in age category 25-45, 16% in the age category 45- 65, and 9% over 65 years. Analgesics (15%), and multivitamins (15%), and others such as dental care products (15%) were dispensed in equal percentages. Only 1% of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were dispensed as OTC drugs. The highest OTC drugs dispensed in age over 65 years were analgesics and antitussives (29% each) following antipyretics (25%) between 65-45 years age category and analgesics (15%) and antacids (15%) between 45-25 years age category. The most prescribed OTC analgesic was Paracetamol. This study recommended further qualitative analysis of patients’ decisions in the usage of OTC drugs related to symptoms.
Recommended Citation
Kangara, K. M. T. D. B.; Senanayake, S. D.; Siriwardhana, A. K.; Maanisha, N. W. A. N.; J., G. A.; Rathnasekara, Rathnasekara; and De Silva, H. H. V. K. N.
(2022)
"Analysis of Dispensing Pattern of OTC Drugs in Community Pharmacy Outlets, Sri Lankan Perspectives; A Pilot Study,"
Journal of Innovation in Science, Engineering and Technology: Vol. 5:
Iss.
2, Article 5.
DOI: 10.4038/caj.v5i2.103
Available at:
https://jiset.cinec.edu/journal/vol5/iss2/5
Pages
6-10
