Practices of herbal medicinal products among paediatricians of Hazara Division

Abstract

Background: Herbal medicinal products have gained popularity among physicians and paediatricians of Pakistan. These products are considered ‘safe’ but concerns exist especially when they are used in children. This study has been carried out to see the practices of paediatricians of Hazara Division about prescription of herbal medicines to children. Methods: A total of 64 paediatricians were included in this study in Ayub Teaching Hospital, and DHQ hospitals of Haripur, Abbottabad, Mansehra and Battagram. One specific proforma was administered to doctors having 15 questions about use of herbal medicinal products in children. Data was analyzed using SPSS-20. Results: Out of total 64 paediatricians, 71.9% had used herbal medicinal products in children and 37.5% preferred to use these products for common flu and colic, while 25% of respondent consider herbal medicinal products beneficial and 50% consider them safe in children. But 7.8% were not sure if these products are safe in children. Adverse effects with use of herbal medicinal products were observed by 10.9% paediatricians. About 9.4% parents showed concern when doctors were prescribing herbal products, 53% of respondent’s do not know if herbal medicinal products are regulated by drug regulatory authority of Pakistan. There is a significant relationship between prescription pattern and product safety (p=0.001). Conclusion: Trend to prescribe herbal medicines is increasing among paediatricians. The safety and efficacy of herbal products must be evaluated in depth.

Pak J Physiol 2020;16(1):48?51