อุปกรณ์ตวงยาในผลิตภัณฑ์ยาน้ำพาราเซตามอลชนิดรับประทาน Measuring Devices in Paracetamol Oral Liquid Products

Abstract

Objective: To survey type of measuring devices in the package ofparacetamol oral liquid products. Method: In this observational study, 213paracetamol liquid products were to be bought from drugs stores andgrocery stores during May to November 2013. These products wereinspected for the availability and type of measuring devices. Results werepresented as frequency and percentage. Results: Of 57 products obtained(26.76% of 213 expected products), 87.72% provided measuring devices,while the rest 12.28% did not. The most frequently found devices wereteaspoon (64.91%), followed by measuring cup (12.28%), dropper(10.53%), and oral syringe (1.75%). Conclusion: A relatively high portionof paracetamol liquid (12.28%) did not provide measuring device in thepackage. Among those that did provide, dropper and oral syringe which arethe most accurate measuring devices, were available in only a smallportion of the products. The majority of the devices were teaspoon followedby measuring cup. Pharmacist should pay more attention in explaining howto use measuring devices to the persons giving oral liquid paracetamol tothe patient.Keywords: oral liquid paracetamol products, measuring device, teaspoon,measuring cup, dropper, oral syringe