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A Study on the Use of Primolut-N Tablet as a Contraceptive in the Kumasi Metropolis of Ghana


HSO Addo
PK Britwum
GAO Ampong

Abstract

Objective: This study investigated into the use of Primolut-N tablet which contains norethisterone (5 mg), popularly called 'N-tablet' by users, as a pre-coital contraceptive by women in the Kumasi metropolis of Ghana.
Methods: Clients who called at any of the Twenty (20) selected Pharmacies in residential areas within the Kumasi metropolis demanding the drug, with or without valid prescriptions were interviewed using a structured proforma.
Results: Of the two hundred and twenty (220) users interviewed 94% demanded the drug for contraception and 6% for menstrual disorders. Sixty one percent of those demanding it for contraception were between the ages 20-25 years. Respondents preferred the use of norethisterone
tablets as a contraceptive to other methods because it worked for them and they also found it easy and convenient taking a tablet just before coitus than taking daily oral contraceptive pills.
Conclusion: Norethisterone is being used as a pre-coital contraceptive,al though the efficacy, safety and reliability of the drug for that purpose is unknown. Until these are known, women must be discouraged from using the drug as such.

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eISSN: 0189-5117