Journal of the Islamic University of Gaza, (Natural Sciences Series) Vol.12, No.2, PP. 59-68, 2004
Year of Publication:
2004
Authors:
Waleed M. Sweileh
Abed –Al-Naser Zeid
Nidal A. Jaradat
Preferred Abstract (Original):
The primary aims of this study were to investigate the attitude of the
Palestinian public to patient package insert (PPI) and to evaluate the practical and
legal issues of PPI in Palestine. Three hundred and seventy one (371) patients
were verbally interviewed using a yes or no questionnaire that examine their
attitude toward the information presented in (PPI). More than half of the patients
(51.7%) said that they read the (PPI), but either find it vague or raise their fears
and concerns. A second group of patients (44.5%) said that they do not read the
(PPI). A third group (3.8%) said that they do not find or do not know about the
PPI. This study emphasizes the need for a pharmacy legislation regarding PPI
design and language, introduction of electronic pharmacy labeling and finally
better patient-pharmacist communication to educate patients about over-thecounter
(OTC) and prescription only medications (POM).