Purchase of Aphrodisiacs; A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study in the Kumasi Metropolis of Ghana
Abstract Sexuality is an important part of an individual’s quality of life. Reduced sexual function is common and can be treated. People search all heights and depths for substances they could use to stimulate and increase sexual desire in themselves and others. The non-prescription procurement and use of medicines have become a major challenge in Ghana. However, it is unknown how serious this situation is with regards to aphrodisiacs. This study therefore assessed the purchase and consumption of aphrodisiacs within the Kumasi metropolis. Retail pharmacies were involved in this study. Quota sampling was used to determine the number of pharmacies to be selected from each sub-metro while stratified sampling was then used to select participating pharmacies for the study. Males between the ages of 31 and 45 years purchased aphrodisiacs from pharmacies the most (56, 38.5%) and the rate of purchase of aphrodisiacs from retail outlets (104, 70.3%) is high. Aphrodisiacs were consumed to prolong erection as well as enhance pleasure. However, this practice is seen by many as inappropriate and reported by many to be associated with very serious adverse effects, with headaches being the most dominant adverse effect reported.