Readability levels of package leaflets of psychotropic drugs

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The readability of a text can be measured objectively using a series of mathematical formulas. Patients' proper understanding of a drug's effects and side effects is essential for treatment compliance in psychiatry. This study aimed to measure the readability level of the package leaflets of psychotropic drugs currently used in Turkey and to determine at what average age and education level were appropriate. METHODS: Four main psychotropic drug groups, which are thought to be used more frequently in adult psychiatry, were included in this study. The most recent package leaflets of the drugs in these groups were obtained from the official websites of the Ministry of Health, the Turkish Medicines and Medical Devices Agency (https: //www.titck.gov.tr/kubkt) and the relevant companies in the market, and their readability level was determined. The formulas developed by Ateşman and Bezirci-Yılmaz were used to evaluate readability levels in this study. RESULTS: The average Ateşman readability points were determined to be 48.2. From this, it was understood that an education at the level of the 13th-15th grade was necessary for the readability of the package leaflets. The average Bezirci-Yilmaz readability points were determined to be 13.2, indicating that an education at the level of 13th grade, or further education, was necessary for the readability of the package leaflets. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: The level of education required for readability of the psychotropic drug package leaflets was seen to be extremely high when the average level of education in Turkey was considered. Improving package leaflets' readability can reduce patients' concerns about psychotropic drugs by facilitating their understanding of the treatment. It can increase treatment compliance, thereby helping the recovery of mental health.

Keywords

• psychotropic drugs
• package leaflet
• readability