Knowledge and awareness of chronopharmacology among medical undergraduates in a tertiary care teaching hospital
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18203/2320-6012.ijrms20264193Keywords:
Chronopharmacology, KAPB studies, Pharmacology, Circadian rhythm, Chronotherapy, Prescribing practicesAbstract
Background: Chronopharmacology examines the effect of circadian rhythms on drug response. Optimizing medication timing can improve efficacy and reduce adverse effects, but awareness among medical students remains unclear. This study assessed the knowledge and awareness of chronopharmacology among undergraduate medical students and interns.
Methods: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among MBBS students and interns at KAMSRC. A pre-validated Google Forms questionnaire assessed knowledge of chronopharmacological concepts, circadian rhythms, and appropriate medication timing. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics in SPSS.
Results: Among 217 participants (59 males, 158 females), most were third-year MBBS students. While 89.4% were familiar with chronopharmacology, only 76.5% correctly identified the circadian rhythm as a 24-hour cycle. Knowledge regarding optimal drug administration timing varied considerably, with notable gaps observed for H₂ receptor antagonists and anti-asthmatic medications.
Conclusion: Although general awareness of chronopharmacology was high, important deficiencies were identified in its practical application. Integrating chronotherapy concepts into the undergraduate medical curriculum may enhance future prescribing practices and improve patient care.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Sindhuja Pulijala, Sailaxmi Venepally, A. Naga Teja Pavani, Bharath Arakala
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