SYNTHETIC PRODUCT ILLEGALLY SOLD IN BRAZIL AS A MEDICINAL HERBAL PRODUCT: CHEMICAL ANALYSIS AND THE PATIENTS MEDICATION EXPERIENCE

Objective: To analyze a product illegally sold as herbal medicine acquired and used by a patient and to understand the reasons that led the patient to use this product. Methods: The chemical analysis was performed by thin layer chromatography (TLC) and mass spectrometry (MS) analysis with a direct infusion with a Bruker Daltonics UltroTOF-Q, in positive mode. A qualitative interview was conducted with the patient. The data obtained were submitted to thematic analysis. Results: Chemical analysis confirmed the presence of piroxicam and orphenadrine, and the complete absence of a natural product. The qualitative study revealed three themes: previous experience with the disease and the use of medicines, feelings about the care provided by health professionals, and the patient's solution. Conclusion: The commercial availability of this kind of product raises concerns about safety and demonstrates the necessity for more intensive surveillance by health authorities. In addition, the present study showed the need for a patient-centered practice and the understanding of medication experience to provide effective care to patients who use medicines to preserve them from unsafe products