Awareness and Knowledge of Isotretinoin Use and Side Effects among Jordanians: A Cross-Sectional Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.35516/jmj.v60i2.4126Keywords:
Isotretinoin, Acne, Awareness, Side effectsAbstract
Background: Isotretinoin, a potent treatment for severe acne, necessitates careful monitoring due to its potential side effects, including teratogenicity, hyperlipidemia, and hepatotoxicity. Despite its widespread use, patient understanding of its risks and proper usage varies considerably.
Objective: This study sought to evaluate the knowledge of Isotretinoin and its associated side effects among Jordanians, identifying critical gaps in awareness and factors influencing comprehension.
Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional study using bilingual questionnaires (Arabic and English) distributed both online and in print. Data analysis focused on assessing overall awareness and examining the influence of demographic and socioeconomic factors on isotretinoin knowledge.
Results: The study encompassed 1,669 participants. Only 611 respondents (36.6%) were aware of isotretinoin treatment, while the remaining 1,058 (63.4%) were not. Among those aware, the mean knowledge score was 17.80 ± 3.39 out of 23. Female participants exhibited greater knowledge compared to males, while those with previous dermatological consultations or healthcare employment demonstrated significantly higher awareness. Notably, misconceptions persisted, particularly regarding isotretinoin's duration of use and age restrictions. Doctors and friends emerged as the primary information sources, underscoring the importance of both medical professionals and social networks in patient education
Conclusion:Despite a general understanding of isotretinoin, specific knowledge gaps persist, emphasizing the need for targeted educational strategies. Improving public awareness through increased pharmacist involvement and structured counseling could enhance the safe and informed use of isotretinoin in Jordan.
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