HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis: pharmacists knowledge, perception and willingness to adopt future implementation in a Zimbabwean urban setting

Abstract

Truvada^® was approved for use in prevention of sexually acquired human immunodeficiency virus in 2012. Consumers may require information about pre-exposure prophylaxis from pharmacists since consultation is free. The aim of the study was to assess pharmacists’ knowledge, perception and willingness to adopt pre-exposure prophylaxis. In this descriptive cross-sectional study, community and hospital pharmacists in Harare were interviewed using a standard questionnaire between September and October 2012. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regression analysis were used for data analysis. The response rate was 90%. Females comprised 47% of respondents. Most pharmacists had a negative perception about pre-exposure prophylaxis. Most pharmacists (94%) were willing to stock pre-exposure prophylaxis in their pharmacies. Cost, accessibility and increase in promiscuity were cited as major hindrances to future implementation. Only 58% of respondents were knowledgeable about pre-exposure prophylaxis. There is need for the government to increase accessibility and improve on awareness strategies for pre-exposure prophylaxis in Zimbabwe.

Keywords: Truvada^®, pre-exposure prophylaxis, pharmacist, knowledge, perception