Background: Over-the-counter (OTC) medications are those that can be obtained without the need for a prescription, providing a convenient pathway to address everyday health concerns. These non-prescription remedies cater to minor health issues and are easily accessible. However, it is important for users to carefully follow the instructions and guidelines provided on the drugs packaging to ensure safe and effective usage.
Aims and Objectives: The present study is undertaken, the prevalence of OTC drug utilization among medical undergraduate students, with the aim of uncovering the factors that contribute to such usage.
Materials and Methods: This study employed a cross-sectional survey among 500 medical undergraduates from an Indian university. The survey aimed to evaluate their utilization of OTC drugs, information sources, and awareness regarding potential side effects. Data collection utilized a self-administered questionnaire.
Results: According to the findings, 450 of the 500 students participated in the survey. Analgesics (85.3%) and antipyretics (61.8%) were the most popular choices among respondents (81.3%). Friends and family (46.2%) were the most common sources of information about OTC drugs. Notably, the majority of students (69.1%) were aware of the potential side effects of OTC drugs.
Conclusion: This study emphasizes the importance of educating medical students on the proper use of OTC drugs as well as the importance of seeking advice from health-care professionals. Furthermore, it emphasizes the significance of increased regulation of OTC drug sales and the dissemination of accurate public information.
Key words: Over-the-counter Drugs; Medical Students; Analgesics; Antipyretics; Side Effects, Self-Medication
|
