Survey Shows One Out Of Eight People Has Consumed Medicine Not Really Prescribed For Them

A survey completed by Health Products Regulatory Authority, a state agency that monitor medical devices, medicines, cosmetics and other health products, has revealed that one out eight persons has acquired medicinal drugs prescribed for somebody else. This represents more than 800,000 persons and this figure increases to about one out of five of 25 to 34 years old, the survey result shows.

HRPA released findings of a national survey which studies the attitudes and habits of consumers towards medicine information. The findings showed that one out of eight adults (13%) admit to taking a prescription medicine that was prescribed to somebody else, while this figure rises to almost one in five (18%) of 25 to 34 year olds, the survey result confirms. Moreover, the survey disclosed that one out of four people don't read the medicine information and one-fourth of people don't read instructions for use with their medicine.

Concerned about the findings of the survey, HRPA developed a public information campaign entitled, "For the full benefit, Take three minutes." The goal of the campaign is to highlight the significance of the effective and safe use of medicinal drugs and medication adherence overall.

According to RTE News, Chief Executive Lorraine Nolan, HPRA's chief executive, said people should educate themselves about the correct dose, known side-effects and directions for use of medicines. She also said that important details like probable side effects or contraindications, can change over the years, and so it's significant that those on long term medication should keep themselves well informed.

The campaign, which was the first ever campaign started by HRPA, was launched by Simon Harris TD, Minister for Health, last Sept. 19, 2016. It will run for 6 weeks all over the regional and national radio, print and digital media starting from the launching day.

"Our campaign aims to encourage more people to always take those three minutes, whether they are taking medication themselves or giving it to someone in their care," Lorraine Nolan told The Irish Times. If people have any questions or concerns, they should always consult their doctor or pharmacist, she continued.