Islamic reasoning and the use of prohibited medicines among Muslim patients: a qualitative study.

ABSTRACT:

Introduction

Muslim patients may avoid medicines containing ingredients prohibited by their faith (haram), such as alcohol, gelatine, or porcine derivatives. While Islamic law permits exceptions based on necessity (darura) or biotransformation (istihala), the way these principles influence medication adherence and shape patient-healthcare provider (HCP) interaction is underexplored.

Aim

To explore how Muslims apply Islamic reasoning to medication adherence decisions involving medicines containing haram ingredients.

Method

Thirteen ethnically diverse Muslim adults were purposively sampled for semi-structured interviews. A prior scoping review and mosque-based public and patient involvement (PPI) informed the interview guide. Interview data were analysed using Braun and

SUBMITTER: Nazar Z 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12630210 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature