Pharmacological considerations for healthcare providers when caring for Muslim patients: A practical guide

Abstract

Healthcare providers increasingly encounter Muslim patients with unique pharmacological considerations influenced by religious beliefs and practices. Islam, as the world's second-largest religion, includes specific guidelines affecting medication permissibility, particularly regarding alcohol and pork-derived ingredients. This educational guide examines the intersection of Islamic teachings with pharmacotherapy, providing examples of commonly prescribed medications containing alcohol or porcine-derived gelatin from our academic medical center's inpatient and outpatient formulary. We document alcohol content percentages in various medications and suggest possible alternatives as illustrative examples. Most importantly, we present a step-by-step practical framework for using National Drug Code (NDC) numbers and the DailyMed database, enabling healthcare professionals at any institution to determine medication suitability for their Muslim patients. Our guide demonstrates that while numerous medications contain ingredients that may conflict with Islamic guidelines, alternatives often exist and can be systematically identified. We advocate for a collaborative, culturally-sensitive approach to medication prescribing that involves shared decision-making, respects religious beliefs, and incorporates alternative formulations when available. By implementing the practical strategies outlined in this educational guide, healthcare providers can enhance medication adherence, strengthen patient-provider relationships, and deliver more culturally competent care to Muslim patients.