Abstract:
The aim of this study was to investigate selfreported
adverse reactions associated with the
use of topical ophthalmic medications. A crosssectional
survey, involving 500 ophthalmic
patients recruited from three eye care facilities
in the Central Region of Ghana was conducted.
A structured questionnaire was administered to
participants to collect data on demographics,
name of drug, dosage form, and dosing frequency
of ophthalmic medications used, as well as
adverse reactions experienced. The pHs of frequently
prescribed ophthalmic medications to
the patients were measured. The prevalence of
reported adverse drug reaction [predominantly
burning sensation (55%), blurry vision (22%)
and itching (13%)] was 44.8%. More Females
reported adverse drug reactions than males
(χ2=26.24, P<0.001). The aged reported more
adverse reaction than others (P<0.01). Patients
using cream ophthalmic medications reported
more adverse drug reactions than those using
other dosage forms (χ2=8.80, P=0.024). The
pHs of the commonly prescribed ophthalmic
medications measured ranged between 4.44-
7.37 (desired: 6.6-7.8). There is a high prevalence
of reported symptoms of adverse drug
reactions among this clinical population attributable
to the acid/base status of the drug agent.
