Researchers conducted this study to describe current co-cyprindiol prescribing in an extensive, rural general practice. Researchers conducted this study to specifically investigate whether co-cyprindiol is defined within its license and MHRA guidelines. They also aimed to study to examine the effect of a simple, low-cost intervention on the number and appropriateness of co-cyprindiol prescriptions.
The researchers examined the computerized medical record system in a 17 435 general patient practice to identify individuals prescribed co-cyprindiol. Prescribers were then contacted and sent copies of the MHRA guideline. Prescriptions for co-cyprindiol were then re-audited.
The analysis revealed that co-cyprindiol comprised 3.4% of total combined oral contraceptive prescriptions. The majority of medicines did not meet the MHRA guidelines. Medications that did not meet guidelines tended to have been for longer. After the intervention, the number of individuals prescribed co-cyprindiol fell and the number of prescriptions that met the guidelines increased. The most considerable change was a decrease in inappropriate prescriptions for acne.
The study concluded that co-cyprindiol was rarely prescribed in this population, though its use often contravened guidelines. Simple interventions can increase the appropriateness of prescribing.
Reference: https://srh.bmj.com/content/38/1/41
