Hawking of Medicinal Drugs: The Perspective of the Ghanaian Consumer

Abstract

This study sought to lay bare, whether there was a high patronage for vended drugs and why, assess their quality and associated risks.  An exploratory analysis was applied for the study. Structured interviews were completed by nine hundred and eighty three (983) respondents, selected using convenience sampling techniques from eighteen (18) bus terminals and along two (2) streets. Conclusively, the study revealed high patronage of vended drugs most especially herbal medicine. For most respondents (consumers), the quality of herbal medicine was rated higher compared to over the counter (OTC) and prescription drugs. The study further indicated a strong link between the factors evaluated and patronization of vended drugs. It is thereby recommended that the state must play an active role in resourcing the mandated institutions to eliminate the proliferation of the activities of the drug hawkers.

Keywords: Hawked Drugs, Herbal Medicine, Over the Counter Medicine, Prescription Medicine