The role of community pharmacy professionals in combating Counterfeit and substandard drugs in the Amhara regional state, Ethiopia

Counterfeit and substandard drug products pose significant public health challenges, affecting millions of people worldwide in both developed and developing countries. These products compromise healthcare systems, reduce treatment efficacy, and endanger patient safety. Therefore, this study assessed strategies to reduce the circulation of counterfeit and substandard drugs, identify potential factors leading to their circulation and evaluate the role of community pharmacy professionals in combating counterfeit and substandard drugs in Ethiopia. A cross-sectional multi-center survey of community pharmacy professionals in the Amhara region of Ethiopia was conducted over four months, from May to August 2024. Data were collected using a self-administered, pre-tested questionnaire. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize the different variables and are presented in tables and figures. Among the 276 community pharmacy professionals approached, 255 completed the questionnaire, resulting in a response rate of 92.4%. Approximately, 90% of the participants agreed that weak enforcement of drug laws and legislation contributes to the circulation of counterfeit and substandard drugs in the country. As a strategy, 95.7% of the participants believed that strict enforcement and proper implementation of drug laws by pharmacy regulatory agencies can help control counterfeit and substandard drugs. Approximately 85.7% of the participants agreed that educating the public about the risks of counterfeit and substandard drugs and protective strategies is crucial in reducing their circulation. Almost all participants (98%) acknowledged the pharmacist's responsibility to purchase medicines from certified drug sources and distributors. and a similar portion of the participants (96.8%) agreed that pharmacists should report counterfeit and substandard drugs to the regulatory officials. The current study revealed that strict enforcement of drug laws, development of the local pharmaceutical industry, educating the public about counterfeit and substandard drugs, and monitoring online sales of drugs can significantly contribute to combating counterfeit and substandard drugs.