Access to non-prescription medicines via vending machines : key considerations to help transfer the self-care concept to the next generation while managing safety risks

Jairoun, Ammar Abdulrahman and Al-Hemyari, Sabaa Saleh and Shahwan, Moyad and El-Dahiyat, Faris and Jairoun, Maimona and Godman, Brian and Kurdi, Amanj and Zyoud, Samer (2022) Access to non-prescription medicines via vending machines : key considerations to help transfer the self-care concept to the next generation while managing safety risks. Journal of Pharmaceutical Health Services Research, 13 (4). pp. 396-401. ISSN 1759-8893 (https://doi.org/10.1093/jphsr/rmac044)

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Abstract

Objectives: Non-prescription vending machines are automated self-service systems that are increasingly used to dispense these medicines. Whilst regulatory health academics have devoted considerable attention to non-pharmacy medication outlets in Gulf Cooperation Council countries and others, the public health literature on these vending machines remains lacking. Whilst non-prescription vending machines undoubtedly provide a number of benefits, they are not without their risks, which include polypharmacy and medication interactions. Methods: The purpose of this article is to provide a framework for further investigation of the function, advantages, and practical constraints of non-prescription vending machines. Key findings: Overall, more research is required to determine the optimal balance between achieving the benefits of non-prescription vending machines whilst avoiding unnecessary constraints on regulatory bodies and vending machine providers but minimizing patient harm. Conclusions: Further studies are also required to assess the consequences of these policy experiments. Specifically, there is a need to better understand the extent to which vending machines can provide beneficial and reasonable access to non-prescription medicines to enhance the quality of life of the population especially during pandemics.

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