Determinants of Benzodiazepine-Dispensing Practice Among Community Pharmacy Dispensers in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

TL;DR

This study in Tanzania finds that knowledge and professional background influence how benzodiazepines are dispensed by pharmacy staff.

Contribution

The study identifies specific factors like knowledge and professional type that determine proper benzodiazepine dispensing practices in community pharmacies.

Findings

Diazepam was the most commonly dispensed benzodiazepine.

Pharmacists with adequate knowledge were more likely to have good dispensing practices.

Non-pharmaceutical dispensers were less likely to follow proper dispensing practices.

Abstract

Purpose: This cross-sectional study assessed determinants of benzodiazepine (BZP)-dispensing practices among community pharmacy dispensers in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.

Methods: A cross-sectional study involving 378 community pharmacy dispensers was conducted between March and June 2024. An adapted structured questionnaire was used to gather information on the sociodemographics, most dispensed BZPs, dispensers' knowledge, and dispensing practice of BZPs. Determinants of dispensing practice were determined by multivariable logistic regression analysis using SPSS Version 23.

Results: Of 378 dispensers, 232 (61.4%) were female, 263 (69.6%) had a college education level, and 193 (51.1%) were pharmaceutical technicians. Diazepam was the most dispensed BZP (163 (43%)), followed by lorazepam (102 (27%)). More than half, 203 (53.7%), of the dispensers had inadequate knowledge, and 240 (63.5%) of dispensers had good dispensing practices. Nonpharmaceutical dispensers were less likely to have good dispensing practice (AOR = 0.16, 95% CI (0.05–0.49)) whereas having adequate knowledge of BZPs (AOR = 2.64, 95% CI (1.64–4.25)) were significantly associated with the good dispensing practice of BZPs.

Conclusion: Knowledge levels and the type of pharmaceutical professionals are determinants in ensuring proper BZP-dispensing practices. These indicate the need for continuous professional development and stricter enforcement of dispensing regulations to improve pharmacy practices and prevent unauthorized BZP dispensing.

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