Drug use Among Pregnant Females Attending a Rural Family Health Unit- Dakahlia Governorate, Egypt

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Family Medicine Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University

2 Public Health and Community Department, Faculty of Medicine, Menoufia University

Abstract

Background: Drug use during pregnancy is prevalent, with 44–99% of women being prescribed medication during pregnancy. The use of medication in pregnancy is often necessary for the treatment of acute and chronic illness. Objectives: The aim of this study was to assess the frequency of medication use (prescribed α non prescribed)among pregnant ladies that attending rural health unit in Mansoura district, Dakahlia Governorate. Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted on 350 pregnant ladies that attendingthe rural family health unit, Mansoura district, Dakahlia Governorate during the period from 1st of January to December 2017. The studied pregnant females were subjected to structured questionnaire to collect data regarding socio-demographic criteria, obstetric history, medical history and history of drug use during pregnancy. Results: The study revealed that the frequency of medication use during pregnancy due to acute and chronic illness was (15% and 18%) respectively. The common supplement intake during pregnancy were iron and calcium (96.2%, 96.9%) respectively. About (22%) of the studied pregnant ladies received medication without a doctor’s prescription.About (92%) of common medication used among pregnant ladies were safe (category B) according to FDA classification of drug.Conclusion: Frequencyof medication use for acute and chronic illnesses among pregnant ladies were (15%) and (18%) respectively, indicating  rational use of drugs among the studied group and (92%)of the medication used among the studied pregnant ladies were  safe (category B)  according to FDA classification of drugs

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