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Community pharmacists' and assistant pharmacists' perspectives on non-prescription analgesics in Erbil: a cross-sectional study

Shanaz Kadhim Magdid
Department of Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
Sherzad Abdulahad Shabu
Department of Community Medicine, College of Medicine, Hawler Medical University, Erbil, Kurdistan Region, Iraq
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Copyright (c) 2026 Shanaz Kadhim Magdid , Sherzad Abdulahad Shabu (Author)

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Abstract

Background and objectives: Community pharmacists play a crucial role in providing counselling on self-medication using non-prescription analgesics (NPAs); ensuring pharmacy staff have adequate expertise is critical for safe and effective patient care. This study aimed to assess the knowledge of pharmacists and assistant pharmacists in Erbil City regarding NPAs.

Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 400 community pharmacy staff in Erbil. A structured questionnaire assessed demographic characteristics and knowledge of NPAs, including their uses, side effects, interactions, and appropriate populations. Chi-square tests were used to explore associations between knowledge level and participant characteristics.

Results: The majority of participants (90.3%, n = 361) demonstrated sufficient knowledge of NPAs, while a smaller percentage (9.8%, n = 39) had poor knowledge. Significant gaps were found in pediatric dosage, NSAID interactions, and use in high-risk populations. Gender (p = 0.006) and academic degree (p < 0.001) were significantly associated with knowledge level. Female participants had significantly higher knowledge than males (93.8% vs. 85.0% sufficient knowledge, respectively), and bachelor's degree holders also had significantly higher knowledge than diploma and postgraduate participants (93.8%, 86.8%, and 57.1% sufficient knowledge, respectively).

Conclusion: Community pharmacy professionals in Erbil demonstrated sufficient knowledge regarding NPAs overall, but gaps in safety-related knowledge remain that could put patient care at risk. To close these gaps, those in non-clinical roles and postgraduates should receive specialized training and participate in ongoing education.

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How to Cite
Kadhim Magdid , S., & Abdulahad Shabu, S. . (2026). Community pharmacists’ and assistant pharmacists’ perspectives on non-prescription analgesics in Erbil: a cross-sectional study . Zanco Journal of Medical Sciences (ZJMS), 601–614. https://doi.org/10.15218/zjms.2026.041

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