Compliance with good storage practices in drug import warehouses in Syria

Abstract

Background

Ensuring the quality of pharmaceutical products is essential for effective healthcare delivery. Good storage practices (GSPs) play a crucial role in maintaining drug integrity and safety.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the adherence of Syrian drug import warehouses to GSP and identify key factors influencing compliance.

Methods

A mixed-methods research design was employed, involving questionnaires and observations of drug import warehouses in Syria. Data were collected from June to August 2022. The first questionnaire assessed the reality of applying GSP, while the second explored perceived benefits and obstacles. The majority of respondents (>80%) had at least 6 years of working experience in the drug warehouse field.

Results

Twenty-three public and private warehouses participated out of the 26 warehouses that were the subject of our study (88%). The study found that in Syria, a significant difference has been detected between existing requirements in drug import warehouses and the needed requirements for the successful implementation of GSP (p = 0.000). Key constraints to GSP implementation included a lack of a quality-oriented culture among warehouse owners (100%) and inadequate equipment (87%). Regarding the benefits of GSP application, respondents identified ensuring the quality of sensitive products (100%) and reducing waste and damage (96%) as the most important.

Conclusions

To enhance GSP adherence, warehouses should prioritize staff training, adopt electronic data loggers, secure fuel for generators, obtain GSP certificates, and raise public awareness. Government agencies and international organizations should support these efforts and provide financial incentives.