Knowledge and Awareness Towards Food Drug Interaction Among Pharmacists in Erbil City

Abstract

In the evolving landscape of healthcare, understanding the potential interactions between pharmaceutical drugs and food is imperative yet often overlooked. This study aimed to assess pharmacists' knowledge of food-drug interactions (FDI) in Erbil city, focusing on comprehension, risk factors, counseling practices, and familiarity with drug databases. Conducted through a survey-based approach, the research involved 100 pharmacists from varying educational backgrounds, sampled purposively from Doctors Street in Erbil. Data collection occurred over two months via a self-administered questionnaire comprising 34 questions covering basic FDI awareness and advanced topics. Results indicate a correlation between higher education levels and a deeper understanding of FDI, particularly in recognizing specific drug-nutrient interactions. Nonetheless, knowledge gaps persist, underscoring the complexity of FDI comprehension. Intriguingly, pharmacists with institute certificates exhibited nuanced understanding in certain scenarios, challenging assumptions about the linear relationship between education and awareness. The study emphasizes the necessity for targeted interventions in pharmaceutical education to address these nuances effectively. These findings contribute to the growing body of knowledge on FDI awareness among pharmacists, highlighting the importance of continuous education to ensure optimal patient care, treatment efficacy, and safety.