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Applied Science Private University

Volume Volume 18, 2024 · Issue 1 · Open Access · Double-blind Peer-review

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Hypothesis

Understanding Physicians' Journeys with Corticosteroids – Experiences, Knowledge, and the Shadows of Fears

Muna Barakat1, Rana Abu-farha2, Samar Thiab3, Nesreen A. Salim4,5,6, Anas O. Alshweiki3, Diana Malaeb7, Malik Sallam8,9,10 & Roa'a Thaher11

1 Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan.

2 Department of Clinical Pharmacy and Therapeutics, School of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan.

3 Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry and Pharmacognosy, Faculty of Pharmacy, Applied Science Private University, Amman, Jordan.

* Corresponding author: Muna Barakat ([email protected])

Published: 30 Dec 2024

https://doi.org/10.35192/jjoas-n.v18i1.1931
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Abstract

Background: Corticosteroids (CS) are essential in managing various medical conditions; however, long-term use presents significant risks. Balancing therapeutic benefits with potential hazards requires careful prescription and monitoring. This study evaluates Jordanian physicians' knowledge, experiences, and concerns regarding CS prescriptions and identifies predictors of both knowledge and fear.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted from March to August 2023 using an online survey dis-tributed via social media platforms. Descriptive statistics and linear regression analyses were employed to assess factors influencing physicians' knowledge and fears regarding CS.

Results: A total of 171 physicians participated, with a median age of 31 years (IQR = 8.0). The majority (86.5%) had prescribed topical (83.1%) and injectable (81.1%) CS formulations. Physicians demonstrated high knowledge (median score: 11/11) but expressed significant concerns (median fear score: 3.5/5), particularly about osteoporosis (73.7%) and hyperglycemia (66.7%). Regression analysis revealed that specialization in rheumatology was significantly associated with higher knowledge scores (p = 0.027). Conversely, higher knowledge scores were associated with lower fear scores (p = 0.034), while other sociodemographic factors did not significantly impact either knowledge or fears.

Conclusion: Jordanian physicians possess substantial knowledge about CS; however, significant concerns remain regarding side effects such as osteoporosis and hyperglycemia. Specialty and knowledge level are key factors influencing both knowledge and fear. These findings highlight the need for targeted educational interventions to address these concerns, improve physician confidence, and enhance patient management outcomes.

KeywordsPhysiciansCorticosteroidsExperiencesKnowledgeFears

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