Abstract
Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine how well patients could correctly recognize and comprehend the various information items in over-the-counter (OTC) medications package leaflets in Saudi Arabia. Methods: Leaflets from 20 most commonly sold OTC medications were examined by experts to evaluate the leaflet layout, language, and content. The same leaflets were also evaluated by patients who had their medicines dispensed at 2 hospitals and 8 community pharmacies in Al Kharj, Saudi Arabia. A questionnaire was used for the patients' examination. Results: A total of 479 questionnaires were included in the study. Each package leaflet was examined by at least 20 participants. The results indicate poor comprehensibility, for many items, particularly items regarding "drug interactions" and "contraindications." Conclusion: The participants had some difficulty recognizing and comprehending certain information items in the package leaflets that are supplied with OTC medications in Saudi Arabia.