Quality of Anti-Malarial Drugs in Nigeria
Author Information
Author(s): Onwujekwe Obinna, Kaur Harparkash, Dike Nkem, Shu Elvis, Uzochukwu Benjamin, Hanson Kara, Okoye Viola, Okonkwo Paul
Primary Institution: University of Nigeria, Enugu, Nigeria
Hypothesis
What is the quality of anti-malarial drugs provided by public and private healthcare providers in south-east Nigeria?
Conclusion
The study found a high prevalence of poor quality anti-malarial drugs, particularly from private facilities.
Supporting Evidence
- 37% of the anti-malarials tested did not meet USP specifications.
- 78% of the suspect drugs were from private facilities.
- Quinine and SP formulations had the highest failure rates.
Takeaway
Many anti-malarial drugs in Nigeria are not good quality, which can make people sicker instead of helping them get better.
Methodology
The study involved purchasing and testing 225 anti-malarial drug samples from various healthcare providers in Anambra State, Nigeria, using laboratory analysis.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in sampling methods and self-reporting by providers.
Limitations
The study may not represent all regions of Nigeria, as it was limited to Anambra State.
Participant Demographics
Participants included both low-level and medium/high-level healthcare providers in urban and rural areas.
Statistical Information
P-Value
<0.0001
Statistical Significance
p<0.0001
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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