Stockpiling on Off-label Medicines in Preparation for COVID-19 in Belize: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Introduction: Needless stockpiling of approved medications for the treatment of other diseases cause undue shortages of approved drugs. This study was conducted to assess stockpiling on off-label pharmaceutical products in anticipation of COVID-19 in the country of Belize. The results of the study provide evidence on needless and wasteful stockpiling of medications, with the aim to discourage artificial shortages while reducing the risks of inappropriate medication use.Methods: The study utilized a qualitative phenomenological approach. Interviews using semi-structured questions were conducted with 15 community pharmacists in the country of Belize. The emerged themes and sub-themes were extracted and exported to Excel 2010® for integration, narration, and presented as summary findings.Results: Data analysis yielded three salient and inter-related themes: stockpiled products, motives for stockpiling, and pharmacist response.Conclusion: Panic stockpiling on pharmaceutical products in anticipation of COVID-19 was reported in this study. The World Health Organization advised against the needless stockpiling of approved medications for the treatment of other diseases, thereby causing undue shortages of approved drugs. Observing personal hygiene and social distancing is encouraged as a measure to curb the spread of COVID-19.

COVID-19 Wastes: Evolving Public and Environmental Threat for Latin America and the Caribbean

“…8 Furthermore, the stockpiling of masks, PPE, gowns, gloves, hand sanitizers, pharmaceutical products, and other household items led to an unusual increase in solid wastes. 9,10 Presently, health disparities, inadequate funding, and poor health care systems in many countries, especially in the LAC region, significantly added to the burden of COVID-19 waste management. 1 Despite the successes of vaccine, the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic is still being experienced, especially as it relates to economic recoveries and waste management.…”

“… 8 Furthermore, the stockpiling of masks, PPE, gowns, gloves, hand sanitizers, pharmaceutical products, and other household items led to an unusual increase in solid wastes. 9 , 10 …”