Consumer Knowledge of Over-The-Counter Phenazopyridine

Chih-Wen Shi, Steven M. Asch, Eve Fielder, Lillian Gelberg, Michael B. Nichol

ResearchPosted on rand.org 2004Published in: Annals of Family Medicine, v. 2, no. 3, May/June 2004, p. 240-244

BACKGROUND: Effective use of over-the-counter (OTC) medications depends on purchasers-- knowledge of their indications. This study examines consumer knowledge regarding the urinary tract analgesic phenazopyridine, which recently became available without prescription. METHOD: The authors conducted a cross-sectional survey of a stratified cluster random sample of purchasers of OTC phenazopyridine (N = 434) in 31 Los Angeles retail pharmacies. RESULTS: The response rate was 58%. Only 29% correctly characterized the likely cause of their symptoms, and only 57% correctly characterized the action of the drug. Worse consumer knowledge was associated with nonwhite race, first-time use, and less contact with health providers. CONCLUSION: Many consumers possess poor knowledge about phenazopyridine, potentially leading to undertreatment, especially in groups with worse access to care

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Document Details

  • Copyright: Annals of Family Medicine, Inc
  • Availability: Non-RAND
  • Year: 2004
  • Pages: 5
  • Document Number: EP-200405-18

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