ABUSES OF OVER THE COUNTER DRUGS BY ADULTS: A SURVEY OF COMMUNITY PHARMACIES IN THE UAE

Abstract

"The Research Journey embarked upon to investigate the abuses of over-the-counter drugs among adults in the UAE has been both enlightening and challenging. From the inception of the idea to the completion of data collection and analysis, several key reflections emerge.

One of the initial challenges encountered was defining the scope and objectives of the study. As the topic encompasses a broad range of factors, narrowing down the research focus to specific objectives required careful consideration and refinement. However, through extensive literature review and consultation with experts in the field, a clear research framework emerged, guiding the subsequent phases of the study.

The process of data collection presented its own set of challenges, particularly in gaining access to community pharmacies and ensuring the cooperation of pharmacists. Building trust and rapport with stakeholders proved to be crucial in overcoming these barriers, highlighting the importance of establishing strong relationships within the research community.

Furthermore, the integration of comparisons with global trends and exploration of the influence of digital platforms added complexity to the research design. However, these dimensions enriched the study by providing a broader context and offering insights into emerging trends and challenges facing the field.

Throughout the research journey, flexibility and adaptability were essential virtues. Unexpected obstacles, such as changes in regulations or limitations in data availability, necessitated adjustments to the research approach. Embracing these challenges as opportunities for growth and learning fostered resilience and innovation in problem-solving.

Objective:

Our study aims to investigate the prevalence and patterns of over-the-counter (OTC) drug abuse among adults in the UAE by conducting a comprehensive survey of community pharmacies. Specifically, we seek to identify commonly abused OTC drugs, assess the reasons behind their misuse, and explore potential interventions to mitigate this issue.