| Abstract: |
Substandard and falsified (SF) medicines represent a critical global public health
threat, with Nigeria among the highest-burden countries. Drug authentication
messaging the dissemination of consumer-directed guidance on how to verify
medicine quality is an emerging countermeasure, yet its impact on consumer
consciousness against fake drugs has not been systematically evaluated in Agbor. A
cross-sectional study was conducted among 396 drug users aged 18 years and above
in Agbor using systematic random sampling. A structured questionnaire assessed
drug authentication message exposure, comprehension, and attitude alongside
consciousness scores against fake drugs measured on a validated 20-item scale.
Logistic regression identified predictors of high consciousness. Most respondents
(78.3%) had been exposed to drug authentication messages, primarily through
pharmacist counselling (63.1%) and television (58.4%). Respondents with high
message comprehension had significantly higher consciousness scores (81.2 ± 10.4
vs. 53.6 ± 14.9; p < 0.001). Message comprehension (aOR = 4.22), NAFDAC
verification habit (aOR = 3.17), and tertiary education (aOR = 2.31) were
independent predictors of high consciousness. Drug authentication messaging is
associated with substantially higher consumer consciousness against fake
medicines in Agbor. Comprehension quality not mere exposure is the operative
predictor, necessitating interactive rather than passive messaging formats. |
