Consumer demand in the purchase and prescription of sugar-free medicines
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Published on: August 12, 2016
M L Hunter1, R Lewis, B Hunter
1Dental Health and Development, University of Wales College of Medicine Dental School, Cardiff, UK.
Objectives:
To determine the current level of consumer demand in the purchase and prescription of sugar-free paediatric medicines.
Design:
Data were collected by administered questionnaire.
Setting:
The study was conducted in a Hospital Paediatric Dentistry Unit and a Community Dental Clinic, both within the Bro Taf area of south-east Wales.
Sample And Methods:
The parents of 240 children attending for routine dental care responded to one of two short questionnaires, depending on whether their child had received a liquid oral medicine in the preceding month.
Results:
Although aware of the benefits of sugar-free medicines, parents did not appear to be attempting to exercise the power of consumer demand to its full potential. They were more likely to ask a pharmacist (or pharmacist's assistant) than their general medical practitioner for a sugar-free medicine.
Conclusions:
We must continue to promote sugar-free medicines. While increasing the importance that health professionals attach to such products, future campaigns should also aim to increase consumer demand.
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