Assessment Of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice on Chronopharmacology Among the Clinical Doctors in A Tertiary Care Hospital – A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Chronopharmacology is an emerging field that studies the influence of biological rhythms on the pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of drugs. Circadian rhythms affect various physiological processes and disease patterns, which in turn influence the therapeutic response and safety profile of medications. Understanding the optimal timing of drug administration can improve treatment outcomes and minimize adverse effects. However, awareness and application of chronopharmacological principles among clinicians remain variable.

Aim: To assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice regarding chronopharmacology among clinicians working in a tertiary care hospital.

Methods: The present study was a cross-sectional, descriptive questionnaire-based survey conducted among 110 clinical doctors working in Government General Hospital, Machilipatnam, Andhra Pradesh. A pre-validated structured questionnaire was distributed through Google Forms after obtaining approval from the Institutional Ethics Committee. The questionnaire assessed clinicians’ knowledge, attitude, and practice related to chronopharmacology. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and p-values were calculated to determine statistical significance.

Results: Among 110 clinicians, 65.5% were aware of chronopharmacology, and 61.8% recognized that drug efficacy can vary according to the timing of administration. A majority (67.3%) believed that chronopharmacology improves therapeutic outcomes, and 74.5% supported its inclusion in clinical guidelines. However, only 49.1% reported routinely considering the timing of drug administration while prescribing medications. Clinicians with greater clinical experience showed better implementation of chronopharmacological principles.

Conclusion: Although clinicians demonstrated a positive attitude toward chronopharmacology, gaps remain in knowledge and practical application. Enhancing awareness through medical education and training programs may improve rational drug therapy and optimize patient outcomes.