Factors Influencing Usage of Mobile Authentication Services in Identification of Fake Anti-Malarial Drugs among Lagos Residents

Abstract

Introduction: Malaria medications are in high demand, and they have inappropriately become a target for pharmaceutical counterfeiting. Mobile Authentication Services (MAS) are used to identify fake drugs and confirm the authenticity of products. The objective of this study is to identify factors influencing the use of MAS in the identification of fake antimalarial drugs.

Methods: This was a descriptive cross-sectional study of 350 people. Respondents were chosen using the multistage sampling method and the research instrument was a semi-structured interviewer-administered pre-tested questionnaire. Data was analyzed using SPSS software version 23, with the level of significance set at 5%.

Results: The study found that 38.6% of respondents were of aged 38 years and above, 76% were females, 67.4% were of the Yoruba ethnic group, 72% were married, 35.1% had a tertiary education, and 55.1% were traders. Only 41% and 43.1%, respectively, were aware of the anti-fake and substandard antimalarial drug campaigns and the use of mobile authentication services in identifying fake and substandard antimalarial drugs. Less than half of respondents (41%) had good knowledge of the mode of operation and benefits of the services, and just 20% were currently using the services. Religion, education, occupation, residential area and knowledge were determinants of current utilization (P < 0.05).

Conclusion: Consumers in Lagos State are unaware of the use of MAS to detect counterfeit anti-malarial drugs. Health promotion programs are essential to promote its usage, most especially among those with low levels of education.