Barriers and enablers to treatment for NPM dependence
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Identifying and exploring the perceived barriers and enablers to seeking and obtaining treatment and support for non-prescription medicine dependence: an interview study using the Theoretical Domains Framework.
IRAS ID
132483
Contact name
Catriona Matheson
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University of Aberdeen & NHS Grampian
Research summary
Non-prescription medicines (NPMs) are medicines which can be obtained and supplied without a prescription. They are also known as over-the-counter medicines. NPMs help people self-manage symptoms and illnesses without seeking medical advice, for example coughs and colds, pain etc. Whilst NPMs have advantages, some have the potential to lead to dependence.
The aims of the study are to identify and explore the perceived barriers and enablers to seeking and obtaining treatment and support for NPM dependence. It is hoped that the findings of this research will be used to identify changes that need to be made so that seeking and obtaining treatment and support for NPM dependence is easier.
The study will use qualitative research methods ie audio-recorded semi-structured telephone or Skype interviews. The topic guide is based on a framework from health psychology ie the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). The interviews will use the TDF as a framework for conducting and analyzing the interviews.
Individuals from the UK who are currently dependent on NPMs (based on self-report) or those who are currently receiving treatment for NPM dependence are eligible for inclusion. Individuals will be recruited using a variety of methods ie via (i) treatment providers, (ii) a general population survey, (iii) a survey of pharmacy customers and (iv) online support forums. The general population survey and the survey of pharmacy customers are separate projects being carried out by the research team and individuals who indicate that they are dependent on NPMs in these surveys and wish to participate in further research will be invited to participate in the current study.
REC name
North of Scotland Research Ethics Committee 2
REC reference
14/NS/0002
Date of REC Opinion
22 Jan 2014
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion