Knowledge and Practices of Community Pharmacists Regarding Drug Storage in Enugu State

Improper drug storage in community pharmacies can compromise medication quality, efficacy, and safety, with significant implications for patient outcomes. This study assessed the knowledge and practices of community pharmacists regarding drug storage requirements in Enugu metropolis, South East Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 85 registered community pharmacists selected through purposive sampling from pharmacies registered with the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria in Enugu State. Data were collected using a validated self-administered structured questionnaire covering knowledge of storage temperature ranges, cold chain management, light and humidity sensitivity, and good pharmacy practice requirements. Observational checklists were applied during unannounced visits to a subsample of 40 pharmacies. Results showed that 62.4 percent of pharmacists had adequate knowledge of recommended storage conditions. However, only 44.7 percent of visited pharmacies maintained appropriate temperature ranges for all drug classes. Cold chain compliance for vaccines and thermolabile medications was observed in only 33.3 percent of inspected premises. Light-sensitive medications were stored correctly in 58.1 percent of pharmacies. Most non-compliant pharmacists attributed deficiencies to inadequate refrigeration infrastructure and irregular power supply. The study concludes that significant gaps exist between pharmacist knowledge and actual storage practices in Enugu community pharmacies. Recommendations include targeted continuing pharmacy education, infrastructure support, and strengthened regulatory inspections by the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria.

Keywords: drug storage, community pharmacy, pharmaceutical quality, Enugu State, good pharmacy practice