Pharmacology&Pharmacy, cilt.14, sa.12, ss.493-512, 2023 (Hakemli Dergi)
Background: This study, it was aimed to determine the level of knowledge,
attitudes, and behaviors of patients who applied to a family health center about
the rational use of drugs. Irrational use of drugs is a major problem worldwide. WHO reports that half of the patients do not use their drugs correctly.
Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted between 1 October 2017
and 30 November 2018 at Istanbul Fatih Family Health Center No 7. The sample size was determined as 301 people selected by systematic sampling method
from patients aged 18 and older. Results: The mean age of the participants
was 53.8% ± 16.8%, 59.8% were female, 62.5% were married, and 52.5% were
primary school graduates. 63.9% of the participants knew the names of the
drugs they used, and 79.9% of them knew the indication for use. 89% of individuals check the expiry date of the drugs before using them, and 83.1% read
the drug prospectus. 84% of the participants support the prohibition of using
over-the-counter drugs. Conclusion: The level of knowledge of the participants
about the rational use of drugs is above the societal average. However, some issues need more awareness. The high level of rational use of drugs awareness of
physicians and pharmacists will also strengthen the rational use of drugs and
indirectly increase the awareness of the public.
Keywords
Rational Use of Drugs, Irrational Use of Drugs, Family Health Center,
Over-The-Cou