Abstract

Nkiru N. Ezeama, Chukwuemeka O. Ezeama, Achunam S. Nwabueze, Chinomnso C. Nnebue*, Chigozie O. Ifeadike, Prosper O.U. Adogu and Obiageli F. Emelumadu

ABSTRACT

Background: Appropriately selected essential medicines lists target the prioritised health needs of any population. International standards have been set for such lists with Nigeria apparently complying with such standards. Nevertheless the country has a huge reproductive health burden which affects regional and global health statistics. An assessment of the essential medicines list in Nigeria specifically focusing on the representation of reproductive health is necessary to re-evaluate Nigeria?s compliance with international standards. Aim: To determine the level of representation of reproductive health on Nigeria?s essential medicines by comparing it with the WHO interagency list of essential medicines for reproductive health. Methods: This was a desk review of the 5th edition of Nigeria?s Essential Medicines list comparing it with the 2006 revised World Health Organisation Interagency List of Essential Medicines for Reproductive Health. Results: Analysis of the Nigeria essential medicines list showed that reproductive health was not accorded a separate category and that out of a total of 149 medications/devices included on the Interagency List, the Nigeria essential medicines list had 133, giving an overall percentage representation of 89.3%. Some sub-categories were however not fully represented on the Nigeria essential medicines list. These include oxytocics (75.0%) and tocolytics (0.0%) and antibacterials (94.4%). Conclusion: The Nigerian essential medicines list has some shortfalls and further review of the list is necessary. The establishment of a national list of essential reproductive health medicines and commodities should further strengthen reproductive health programmes and services in the country.