The Pharmacy Department of Sobi Specialist Hospital, under the management of the Kwara State Hospitals Management Board, has successfully conducted a Medication Reconciliation and Review Exercise. The initiative, held on 12 February 2026, was strategically timed to precede the incoming Ramadan fasting period.

The exercise aimed to review patients’ medications to ensure safety, effectiveness, and adherence to treatment plans. In light of the approaching fasting month, additional counselling was provided to the Muslim faithful regarding appropriate medication timing during fasting, the importance of adherence, and the necessity of avoiding self-discontinuation of prescribed therapies.

During the exercise, several challenges were identified among patients, including medication non-adherence due to financial constraints, improper medication use, drug-related side effects, and the practice of self-medication through roadside chemists.

Key patient interventions were recorded during the programme. For instance, a lumbar spondylosis patient presenting with numbness in the extremities was advised to undergo fasting blood sugar testing to rule out diabetes and was counselled on proper medication use. Another patient, who developed ulcer complications from prolonged use of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs), was strongly advised against patronising roadside chemists, with emphasis placed on structured medical follow-up. Furthermore, a patient with an incisional abscess and a history of antibiotic misuse received counselling on treatment compliance and the dangers of antimicrobial resistance.

Patients expressed satisfaction with the additional pharmaceutical care services and called for the periodic continuation of the exercise. The programme further highlights the critical role of pharmacists in promoting rational drug use, improving treatment outcomes, and safeguarding public health, especially during significant religious observances such as Ramadan.