The role of community pharmacists in monitoring adverse drug reactions in Nigeria

Objectives To identify the common types of adverse drug reactions (ADRs) detected and reported by community pharmacists in Nigeria. In addition we examined the extent of community pharmacists' involvement in ADR activities and evaluated the factors influencing community pharmacists' role in monitoring and reporting ADRs. Methods The study was conducted among community pharmacists using a convenience sampling process. Verbal consent to participate in the study was sought during this initial contact. Structured and pre-tested questionnaires made up of closed and open-ended questions were given to the community pharmacists. Community pharmacists answered questions on demographics, the extent of their involvement in ADR activities, pharmacological class of drugs causing ADRs and number of ADRs detected and reported as well as the factors influencing their role in ADR activities. Key findings Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multiple regression analysis. The response rate for the study was 92.7%. The extent of involvement of community pharmacists in ADR activities was low. A total of 41cases of ADRs were identified and reported. Variables that were significant at P < 0.05 and the study revealed that influences on community pharmacists' role in ADR activities were knowledge of ADRs (1.369), community pharmacists' experience (1.330) and patients' medical information (1.183). Conclusion Analyses indicated that all classes of drugs examined, including herbal medicines, caused ADRs. This is contrary to the widely held view that herbal preparations are non-toxic in nature. Hence, this finding will elicit more interest in effective medication management and monitoring.