Pharmacists’ Attitudes Towards Long-Term Use of Nasal Decongestants: A Cross-Sectional Study

• DOI: 10.2147/jmdh.s451835
• Publication Date: 2024-03-12T15:15:09Z
• Authors: Mohammad Mokhatrish; Sharif Almatrafi; Turki Aldrees; Turki Aldriweesh; Fahad AlGhamdi; Abdullah Al-Dosary; Naif Alhumaydani; Osamah Aldakkan; Naif Alrudian; Ali Ali
• Keywords: Decongestant; Nasal decongestant; Cross-sectional study; Over-the-counter

Background: Rhinitis medicamentosa is a nonallergic inflammation of the nasal mucosa caused by topical decongestants overuse. It mainly affects young and middle-aged adults. Therefore, aim this study was to investigate attitudes pharmacists regarding utilization over-the-counter intranasal decongestants. Methods: An online cross-sectional conducted from November 2021 January 2022. The target population included who work in community pharmacies Saudi Arabia. Binary logistic regression analysis used identify predictors having positive attitude towards controlling use decongestant. Results: A total 220 participants were study. Around 15.0% them reported that ND come with physician prescription. majority (87.3%) less than 5 days maximum safe duration for NDs. Overall, demonstrated moderately decongestant mean score 2.5 (standard deviation: 1.2) out 5; which represents 50.0% score. identified aged 31– 40 years two-folds more likely have compared others (p< 0.05). 45.9% they recommend other treatments like irrigation, steroids, or antihistamine if see patient RM asking without Conclusion: Arabia sufficient awareness understanding on adverse effects associated excessive can be avoided appropriate measures, highlighting importance raising about among healthcare professionals patients alike. Keywords: rhinitis medicamentosa, pharmacist, attitude, decongestants,