Basic drug information given by physicians is deficient, and patients' knowledge low.
OBJECTIVE
Our aim was to assess basic drug information given by physicians when prescribing new topical medication and to compare this with outpatients' subsequent knowledge.


METHODS
Basic drug information was noted during consultations. Subsequently, patients answered a questionnaire regarding diagnosis, treatment, and satisfaction with the consultation. Neither physicians nor patients were informed about the specific study objective.


RESULTS
A total of 17 patients were included. Information provided during the consultations versus patients' knowledge after 2 weeks was: diagnosis (65% vs 41%), dosage by number (100% vs 71%), dosage by quantity (18% vs 12%), and treatment duration (65% vs 35%). None was informed about adverse effects and 47% were fully satisfied with the consultation.


CONCLUSIONS
Basic drug information provided by physicians was deficient and patients' knowledge was even lower.
Storm
Andreas
A
Department of Dermatology, Copenhagen University Hospital, Bispebjerg, DK-2400 Copenhagen NV, Denmark. astorm@dadlnet.dk
Benfeldt
Eva
E
Andersen
Stig Ejdrup
SE
Andersen
Jørgen
J
D000279:Administration, Cutaneous; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D003879:Dermatologic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010817:Physician-Patient Relations; D055815:Young Adult
D003879:Dermatologic Agents