SELF REPORTED FACTORS AFFECTING CHOICE OF PRESCRIPTION OF DRUGS AMONG DENTAL SURGEONS IN PUNJAB PAKISTAN
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Abstract
Background: To assess the self-reported factors influencing drug-prescribing practices among dental
surgeons in Punjab, Pakistan, and to determine the association of formal or refresher training in drug
prescription with prescribing behavior.
Material and Methods: This cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted over 9
months (Feb–Nov 2025) among dentists working in three dental institutes in Punjab, after the
approval of the IRB of Azra Naheed Dental College, on 300 dentists using convenience sampling. A
structured self-administered questionnaire assessed demographics, training, supervision, confidence,
and other influencing factors on drug prescription. Data was analyzed using SPSS Version 25. Chisquare test was applied with significance set at p<0.05.
Results: A total of 300 dental surgeons participated (mean age: 24.56±1.60 years); 71% were females
(n=213). Training in drug prescription had been received by 68% (n=204). Need for supervision was
reported “sometimes” by 61% (n=183), with a significant association with training (p=0.004).
Confidence in self-prescribing was “somewhat” high in 55.7% (n=167), also significantly associated
with training (p<0.001). Supervisor influence was high (93.3%; n=280), and degree of influence did
not differ significantly between trained and untrained respondents (p=0.181). Pharmaceutical
company influence was not significant (p=0.924), but prescribing in response to pharmaceutical
representatives was significantly associated with training (p<0.001). Influence from fellow
colleagues was significant (p=0.019). Other factors, including senior colleagues, self-judgment,
books, and internet resources, showed no significant differences.
Conclusion: Formal or refresher training in drug prescription significantly improves confidence,
reduces reliance on supervision, and promotes more cautious prescribing behavior, particularly in
response to pharmaceutical marketing.