Knowledge and Attitude of Doctors Concerning Psychotropic Medications used in Pakistan

Abstract

Objective: To determine the knowledge and opinion of doctors regarding psychotropic
medications.
Study Design: Observational, cross-sectional
Place and Duration of Study: Services Hospital Lahore and Lahore General Hospital from
March 2008 to March 2009
Methodology: This study included one hundred and thirty two doctors through non-probable
purposive sampling. A 20-item questionnaire was distributed to doctors. The questionnaire
included questions regarding the opinions, knowledge and attitudes of doctors towards
psychotropic medication. Socio-demographic data of doctors was also recorded. Data was
analyzed using SPSS. Frequency tables were created.
Results: A total of 132 questionnaires were completed by doctors. A total of 50% believe that
there is a proper use of psychotropic medication, while 38.5% believe that psychiatrists
unnecessarily use high doses of psychotropic medication. Atotal of 69% think that higher doses of
psychotropics are not more effective. A total of 73.8% fear psychotropic agents more than other
types of medication. Most doctors believe that medication is most effective treatment for
schizophrenia (36.5%) and depression (42.2%) and psychotherapy is the most effective method
of dealing with anxiety disorders (45.2%). A total of 75.4% believe that psychotropics are
dangerous.
Conclusion: Our study indicates that the knowledge, opinions and beliefs prevalent in the
doctors are not consistent with scientific knowledge.