Prescription Leaflets Research Paper

Have you ever bothered to read patient information leaflets before taking medicine? That is the leaflet that often comes with a pack or box of medicine telling you everything you need to know about the medication. A recent report revealed that lack of clarity and trust affected patient’s attitude to information in prescription leaflets. According to the report, the patients sometimes see the information as ‘’scary’’ or ‘’confusing.’’ This has raised concerns about the quality of patient information leaflets. According to the Academy of Medical Sciences, there is too much focus on the potential side-effects of medicines on information leaflets inside packs and not enough on their benefits.
Although, no data exist on how many people read prescription
What should the medication be used for
Contraindications – conditions that can make taking the medication unsafe (for example, some medications unsafe for pregnant women or children under a certain age).
Why should you take time to read patient information leaflets before using any medication?
Patient information leaflets remains relevant despite these challenges. Why? This is because it helps you to prepare well before taking any medication. Keeping it handy allows you to easily know what to do in the event of an emergency such as adverse reactions and interactions with other drugs, alcohol and substances. Please feel free to speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions about your medication.
What if you come across side effects that made you anxious about taking a prescribed medication? This is not uncommon. One doctor in Nigeria reported that sometimes, some patients ‘’single out rare but severe side effects and refuse to take medicines on account of that.’’
If you come across any disturbing side effects about prescribed medications, it would be wise to discuss these with your doctor or pharmacist before refusing to take