Evaluating the Knowledge and Attitude Among Dental Post-graduates Regarding Irrational Fixed Drug Combination: A Cross-sectional Study

Objectives In the Indian pharmaceutical market, fixed drug combinations (FDCs) are progressively gaining popularity and have been thriving in recent years. Unfortunately, irrational FDCs are flooding the pharmaceutical market in India. Since dental post-graduates are primarily involved in patient care and management, they must be aware of prescribing rational FDCs to the patients. The goal of the current study was to assess participants’ knowledge and comprehension of the FDCs, which are commonly prescribed in the dental practice. The study aimed to evaluate knowledge and attitude among dental post-graduates about FDCs. Material and Methods This cross-sectional observational study was conducted in various dental colleges in Chennai from January 2025 to July 2025. A total of 100 dental post-graduates interested in participating in this survey were included in this study. A set of 18 MCQs was formulated and directed to dental post-graduates. Descriptive statistics were made. Results In assessing respondents’ knowledge of FDCs’ rationality, 48% indicated that FDCs are rational when they meet all three criteria mentioned in the option. Additionally, 67% believe that FDCs improve patient compliance. The majority also perceive that FDCs enhance therapeutic effects and prevent resistance development. Many respondents were confused about the rationality of certain combinations, such as norfloxacin + metronidazole, pantoprazole + domperidone, and immunosuppressive + corticosteroids. Textbooks (2%) ranked lowest as a source of information regarding the rationality of FDCs. Conclusion Implementing concepts of rational drug use in practical and field settings is critically needed. Therefore, the Dental Council of India (DCI) should take necessary steps to include rational drug use and the essential medicine list by the World Health Organisation (WHO) in the curriculum.