Insights of Community Pharmacists on Melatonin Supplements: A Survey about Knowledge, Attitudes, and Safety Perceptions
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.60988/p.v38i3.313Keywords:
Melatonin, community pharmacists, knowledge, Attitudes, Insomnia.Abstract
Introduction: Melatonin is widely recognized to be essential for regulating circadian rhythms and promoting the onset of sleep. Objective: This study aimed to assess the dispensing practices and knowledge of community pharmacists in Iraq regarding melatonin supplements. Methodology: The study involved 200 licensed pharmacists practicing in various regions across Iraq. Data was collected through a structured Google Forms questionnaire. The questioner designed to gather both quantitative and qualitative information. The pharmacists' attitudes toward the safety and efficacy of melatonin supplements, as well as adverse drug reactions and drug-drug interactions, were evaluated together with their knowledge of melatonin. Results: a significant proportion of pharmacists prescribing melatonin (83.5%). The primary indications for melatonin use were insomnia (67.5%) and to improve sleep quality (32.5%). About half (56.25%) of study pharmacists were aware about the interaction of melatonin with other drugs. More people (72%) were aware of the detrimental impacts of melatonin, and a significant portion of pharmacists agreed or strongly agreed that a patient's past medical history must be taken into account before melatonin is prescribed or dispensed (73%). Most pharmacists believed that melatonin is effective in adult (73.5%) and paediatric sleep disorders (60%), however, only 54% agreed that melatonin is safe in general. Conclusion: This study reveals that while melatonin is widely perceived as effective. Its accessibility through over-the-counter self medication raises concerns about unsupervised use and potential misuse. Pharmacists demonstrate strong engagement in patient counselling, particularly on sleep hygiene and side effects. However, gaps persist in their understanding of melatonin interactions, which could impact safe recommendations, especially when combined with other medications.
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