Patients who buy acetylsalicylic acid in Polish pharmacies — population characteristics and description of medical problem

Abstract

Introduction. The aim of our study was to characterize patients in Poland who buy in pharmacies over-the-counter formulations of acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) in doses recommended by cardiologists as well as to attempt a risk stratification of this population.

Material and methods. We used standardized electronic questionnaires addressed to patients coming to pharmacies. Patients were interviewed by pharmacists or pharmacy technicians.

Results. The survey included 532 patients who bought ASA drug for themselves. Most of them have not previously had any cardiovascular events, and the decision to start ASA was the result of a medical professional’s recommendation. The percentage of people who were motivated by mass media advertising was much smaller, at approximately 20%.

Conclusions. It is suggested that the most important indications for use of ASA in cardiologic doses are those concerning primary prevention. This observation warrants performing further diagnostic work-up, and points out to the role of physicians and pharmacists in therapy monitoring.