Abstract of INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF PHARMA SCIENCES AND RESEARCH (IJPSR)

ABSTRACT

Title

Exploring consumers’ perceptions and knowledge of acetaminophen (paracetamol): a cross-sectional study from Penang, Malaysia

Authors

Chee Ping Chong, Seak Fang Tan, Weng-Tink Chooi

Keywords

Acetaminophen, paracetamol, consumer, perception, knowledge

Issue Date

Mar 2020

Abstract

Purpose: Acetaminophen poisoning is a common problem in Malaysia. This study aimed to evaluate the perceptions and knowledge of acetaminophen among the consumers in the state of Penang, Malaysia. The study findings would help in the development of strategies to address the issue of acetaminophen poisoning. Method: This was a survey involved a convenient sample of 400 consumers who visited Health Clinic of Universiti Sains Malaysia (USM), Out-patient Clinic of Advance Medical and Dental Institute, USM and five selected community pharmacies. Results: Majority of the consumers perceived acetaminophen as safe to use (69.1 %) and very effective for minor and moderate pain (81.8 %). Approximately 52% of the consumers agreed that the reduction of maximum pack size of acetaminophen will decrease the risk of over-consumption and poisoning rate while 73.8 % agreed that better product labelling can help to decrease the misuse of acetaminophen. Most of the consumers (82.5 %) did not know the content of acetaminophen. Around 86 % of the consumers knew the proper recommended dose of acetaminophen 500 mg tablet per intake in adults while 50.0% knew the correct frequency of intake. Only 46.0% of the consumers were alert about interaction between acetaminophen and alcohol. Less than half of the consumers knew that acetaminophen overdose can cause liver injury (26.8 %) and may cause fetal death and spontaneous abortion during pregnancy (19.5 %). Conclusion: Knowledge deficits regarding acetaminophen were found among the consumers and prompt educational intervention is needed to address this issue.

Page(s)

52-57

ISSN

0975-9492

Source

Vol. 11, No.03