Misuse of corticosteroids in the Morrocan city of Laayoune
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.34874/PRSM.mjph-vol5iss1.38997Keywords:
Misuse, Corticosteroids, Obesity, MoroccoAbstract
Introduction: Since the 1960s, Morocco has experienced a continuous increase in obesity. Several causes are incriminated including the abuse of corticosteroids especially in women. The study aims to describe the characteristics of this use and to understand its reasons in the city of Laayoune.
Materials and methods: Two different surveys were conducted simultaneously in community pharmacies. These surveys are questionnaires for corticosteroid users and pharmaceutical teams.
Results: 95% of the 60 corticosteroid users recruited were women. The main reason was to gain weight. Users are mostly unmarried, illiterate, obese and aged 19-50. About half of them used a combination of corticosteroids and cyproheptadine products.
Conclusion: Misuse of corticosteroids is widespread among women in the city of Laayoune. This phenomenon contributes to the increase in obesity in Morocco. To address this issue, health authorities should conduct awareness-raising campaigns among the people of the region about the potential risks.
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