Abstract

Udujih O.G., Ukaga C.N., Udujih H.I.*, Iwuala C. C., Udujih O. S.

ABSTRACT

The utilization pattern of anti malaria drugs in the treatment of childhood malaria was studied with the aim of investigating the influence of education and occupation on choice of malaria drugs. The study was carried out between September 2005 and January 2008 in two Local Government Areas (LGAs) of Imo State by administration of structured questionnaire through household surveys of caregivers. The result showed that out of the 4093 respondents, the most commonly used drugs during the period of survey were Chloroquine(13.6%), Malareich (11.4%), Fansidar(10.1%), Artesunate(8.3%), Amodiaquine(7.8%), Amalar(7.7%), Alaxin (7.6%)And Maloxine (7.6%). Overall, the highest number of respondents using monotherapy was among those with primary level education. The utilization of anti-malarials in relation to occupation of caregivers showed that Malareich was most used among Civil Servants (17.7%), Traders (14.9%) and Nurses (11.6%) while Fansider (15.7%) was used among Teachers. The Artemisinin combination therapy (ACT) was most used by Teachers while momotherapy was most preferred by Nurses (46.4%). There was variation in choice of drugs among respondents in the two LGAs however, choice of anti-malaria drug in relation to educational levels of respondents was not statistically significant (P=0.38) while it differed significantly (P< .05) in relation to occupational groups. In light of these findings, it is imperative to monitor and inform caregivers on the proper anti-malaria therapies through more targeted and strategic programs.