Assessment of knowledge and awareness on fixed dose combinations among medical undergraduate students

Background: In routine clinical practice, fixed dose combinations (FDCs), which contain two or more active medications in a single dosage form, are used to treat a variety of disorders. Adverse drug reactions can occur when FDCs are used. Understanding FDCs can help patients receive better care and live longer. It is crucial for aspiring doctors to be aware of and knowledgeable about prescription FDCs to treat patients and improve healthcare. Aims and Objective: The aim of the study was to evaluate the knowledge and awareness on FDCs among undergraduate medical students. Materials and Methods: This study was conducted in the department of pharmacology, Sree Mookambika Institute of Medical Sciences, Kulasekharam, Tamil Nadu. A total of 100 students were selected based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Demographic data of all the students were recorded. Questions regarding FDCs were given to the selected subjects and asked to fill within the prescribed time. Filled questionnaires were collected and analyzed. Results: Total 150 students were screened and 100 were included in the study. It was observed that all the students aware about Essential Medical List (EML) and FDCs. The main source of information about FDCs was journals and Continuing Medical Education (CME). The knowledge about standard operating procedure, patient compliance, adverse reaction, and expenditure was lacking among the medical students. Awareness program was recommended by 70% of the study participants to improve the knowledge about FDCs. Conclusion: Despite the fact, the students being aware of FDCs, it is necessary to increase their understanding of rationale, EML, and application, as well as banned FDCs. While the health of the patient is in the hands of medical professionals, the resident doctors must know about the benefits, risks, and appropriate use of FDCs at the undergraduate education level.