Monitoring Adverse Drug Reactions to Anti-Malarial Drugs in Nigeria
Author Information
Author(s): Adedeji Ahmed A, Sanusi Bilqees, Tella Azeez, Akinsanya Motunrayo, Ojo Olubusola, Akinwunmi Mufliat O, Tikare Olubukola A, Ogunwande Isiaka A, Ogundahunsi Omobola A, Ayilara Olajide O, Ademola Taofeeqah T, Fehintola Fatai A, Ogundahunsi Olumide A
Primary Institution: Olabisi Onabanjo University Teaching Hospital
Hypothesis
Can mobile phone technology effectively monitor adverse drug reactions (ADRs) to anti-malarial drugs in a community setting?
Conclusion
Ineffective anti-malaria medicines remain widely available and frequently purchased, highlighting the need for better pharmacovigilance.
Supporting Evidence
- A total of 12,093 purchases were recorded during the study.
- 1,500 complete courses of anti-malarials were purchased, with sulphadoxine-pyrimethamine and chloroquine being the most common.
- The response rate to mobile phone monitoring of ADRs was 57% within the first 24 hours.
Takeaway
This study shows that people in Nigeria often buy anti-malarial drugs without proper checks, and using mobile phones can help track any bad reactions to these medicines.
Methodology
The study monitored drug purchases over 28 days in community pharmacies and medicine stores, collecting ADR information via mobile phone from 100 volunteers.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in self-reported ADRs and the limited educational background of participants may affect data accuracy.
Limitations
The study was limited to a single community and may not represent broader trends in Nigeria.
Participant Demographics
Participants included 84 women and 26 men, with 54% having 6-12 years of education.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.0002
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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