Sodiq Ojuroungbe
Pharmacists have expressed concerns about the high rate of incomplete oral medication adherence among Nigerians, lamenting that over 60 per cent of Nigerians discontinue oral medications while undergoing treatment.
They noted that this incomplete adherence poses serious risks, including the development of drug resistance and a heightened challenge in effectively managing diseases such as malaria, which remains a major public health issue in the country.
The senior medical profession disclosed this at the 43rd annual international conference of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria, held at the International Conference Centre, University of Ibadan, Oyo State.
A Consultant Clinical Pharmacologist and Malaria Scientist at University College Hospital, Dr. Michael Obaro addressed the critical issue of drug resistance, emphasising that incomplete medication regimens contribute to the problem.
According to him, drug resistance not only makes treatment less effective but can also lead to more severe health consequences and increased treatment costs.
Obaro noted that traditional oral tablets often face issues such as poor patient adherence and variable absorption rates, which can compromise treatment outcomes.
He highlighted the potential of soft gel capsules as a more effective alternative to combat these challenges.
The physician explained that soft gel capsules offer several advantages over conventional tablets.
He added that this new formulation represents a significant advancement in malaria treatment, promising to enhance patient adherence and treatment efficacy.
“Soft gel capsules are known for their patient-friendly properties, including a more consistent and effective drug absorption compared to traditional tablets,” he stated.
Also, the Assistant General Manager of Sales and Marketing at Geneith Pharmaceuticals, Abimbola Bowoto, praised soft gel capsules for being more accessible, affordable, and suitable for patients of all ages.
Bowoto highlighted that the patient-friendly nature of soft gels could play a crucial role in increasing medication adherence, particularly in managing malaria where consistent dosing is vital.
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