Abuse and misuse of prescription and nonprescription drugs sold in community pharmacies in Jordan

The aim of this study was to investigate abuse/misuse of prescription and nonprescription drugs in community pharmacies in Jordan by random distribution of a structured questionnaire to 405 pharmacies (November 2005January 2006). Data were analyzed using SPSS for windows (version 14.0). Most respondents (94.1) suspected that some level of abuse/misuse occurred in their pharmacy, which was highest for decongestants, cough/cold preparations, benzodiazepines, and antibiotics. Abuse/misuse of prescription and nonprescription drugs is present in Jordan, but current methods for controlling the problem are ineffective, and better methods should be developed. The study's limitations are noted. © 2010 Informa Healthcare USA, Inc.