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The practice of using repurposed medications as chemoprophylaxis for COVID-19 by healthcare workers in a tertiary
Sylvanus B Udoette1, Asukwo E Onukak1, Victor A Umoh1
1Department of Internal medicine, University of Uyo teaching hospital, Uyo, Akwa Ibom state, Nigeria.
African Health Sciences
|February 15, 2024
Summary
Many Nigerian healthcare workers used unapproved drugs like Vitamin C, Azithromycin, and Zinc to prevent COVID-19 before vaccines were available. These repurposed medications may not offer significant protection, highlighting the need for increased COVID-19 vaccination uptake.
Area of Science:
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
- Pharmacology
Background:
- Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) poses a significant risk to healthcare workers (HCW), making them a priority for preventive measures.
- Prior to vaccine availability in Nigeria, some HCW resorted to unapproved repurposed drugs for COVID-19 prevention.
- This study addresses the prevalence and patterns of such drug use among HCW.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the frequency and patterns of drug use for COVID-19 prevention among healthcare workers in Nigeria.
- To identify factors associated with the use of repurposed medications for COVID-19 prophylaxis.
Main Methods:
- A prospective cross-sectional study was conducted with HCW in Southern Nigeria.
- Data collection involved questionnaires and SARS-CoV-2 antibody testing.
- Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 23.
Main Results:
- Out of 166 participants, 19.3% reported using repurposed medications for COVID-19 prophylaxis.
- The most commonly used drugs were Vitamin C (9%), Azithromycin (8.4%), and Zinc (6.6%).
- Independent factors associated with prophylaxis use included contact with a confirmed COVID-19 case and being a pharmacist.
Conclusions:
- A notable proportion of Nigerian HCW utilized unapproved drugs for COVID-19 prevention.
- These medications may not provide substantial protection against COVID-19.
- There is an urgent need to enhance COVID-19 vaccine uptake among HCW in Nigeria.
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