DETERMINING THE PREVALENCE OF SELF MEDICATION PRACTICE IN GENERAL POPULATION: A CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY
B. Nivetha*, Dr. R. Manivannan, V. M. Devi Priya, M. Anitha, R. Ajay, S. Subash and M. Muralitharan
ABSTRACT
Self-medication is a common healthcare behaviour in developing countries. The purpose of this study was to
determine the prevalence of the use of over-the-counter medications (OTC) among the general population
Methods. This cross-sectional study was conducted in Districts of Salem and Namakkal during the period from
April to July 2024. The collected data were entered into an Excel spreadsheet for Windows 2010 and analyzed
using SPSS version. Results. The results indicate that a considerable proportion of individuals opt for selfmedication
due to factors such as convenience, perceived minor nature of illness, and cost-effectiveness compared
to formal healthcare services. The study underscores the need for enhanced public health education on the safe use
and the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before initiating treatment. Moreover, policymakers
should consider regulating the availability of certain medications and promoting awareness campaigns to mitigate
the risks associated with self medication use. Further research is recommended to explore the specific drivers of
self medication and to develop targeted interventions to ensure safe and effective healthcare practices within the
population.
Keywords: Self medication, Over the Counter, Cross sectional study, Community Pharmacies.
[Full Text Article]
[Download Certificate]
Impact Factor : 8.181 
