A STUDY TO ASSESS THE KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE ON OVER THE COUNTER DRUGS AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS
Dr. Basavanna P. L.*, Anagha Krishnadas, Anu Mariya Saji, Arman Arab, F. Laltlanthangi, Manisha Devi
ABSTRACT
Objectives: A study to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice on over the counter drugs among college students. Methods: This cross-sectional observational study was carried out among college students in Mysore from March 2019-May2019. A total of 200 students were included in this study. Data was analysed using Microsoft excel and the results were presented using counts and percentages. Results: Among 200 students, 190 (95%) students were practising self-medication and 10 (5%) students were not practicing self-medication. Sources of self-medication were advice from pharmacist (38%), suggestions by friends or family (32%). The major conditions for adopting OTC drugs were headache (58.9%), followed by cough and cold (58.4%) and fever (54.7%). Among the drugs antipyretic and analgesics consumption was highest (96.3%) followed by antibiotics (64.2%), antacids (51.5%) and vitamin supplements (51%). It was observed that 36 students experienced adverse drug reactions like nausea and vomiting (7.3%), allergic reactions (4.7%) and constipation (4.7%).The most common reasons for self-medication were time saving (44%) and quick relief (24.2%).In our study majority of the students had a positive attitude towards self -medication. Conclusion: The prevalence of self-medication among students is quite high. Therefore, proper counselling and awareness should be created among the public regarding self-medication.
Keywords: Self-medication, OTC drugs, adverse drug reactions.
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