Assessment of drug and poison information centers in Saudi Arabia

Abstract

Background: Drug Information Centers (DICs) and Drug and Poison Information Centers (DPICs) in Saudi Arabia are pharmacy-based departments that provide drug information services for pre-scribers and or public. We sought to evaluate their current role in handling poisoning cases. Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey of all DICs and DPICs in Riyadh and included 17 potential respondent centers. We developed a brief questionnaire with nine questions about DICs and DPICs resources. Results: The response rate was 82%. Most responding centers provide service only during daytime hours. Three provide services on weekends, and five have staff on-call after business hours. Handling poisoning cases is not available in five centers and found to be minimal among all other centers. Conclusion: DICs and DPICs provide limited poison information services in Saudi Arabia. In accord with the current Vision 2030 reform effort, establishing comprehensive poison control center services is a necessity for the health care system in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.