A Survey of Australian Hospital Pharmacy Staff Knowledge, Practices, and Assessment of Animal-derived Medications

This study aims to determine the knowledge and practices of Australian hospital pharmacy staff regarding animal-derived ingredients in medications and reviewing whether commonly used medications contain animal-derived ingredients. The study surveyed 67 pharmacy staff and reviewed 20 medications. Ninety-eight percent of staff were aware patients may have religious or cultural restrictions on ingesting animal-derived products; 33% discussed this issue with patients. Information on animal-derived ingredients was readily accessible for 1.6% of medications, with information unavailable for 14%. Staff demonstrated awareness that medications may contain animal-derived ingredients, but challenges exist in discussion with patients and in accessing information on animal-derived ingredients.