ASSESSMENT OF USAGE OF OVER THE COUNTER (OTC) MEDICATIONS IN METRO AREAS: KAP STUDY
Main Article Content
Keywords
Over-the-counter medications, KAP study, urban health, self-medication, drug safety, public awareness
Abstract
Background:
Over the counter (OTC) medications are widely accessible in urban areas, contributing to increasing trends in self-medication. While convenient, irrational use of OTC drugs may lead to adverse effects and antimicrobial resistance.
Objectives:
This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding OTC medication use among adults in metropolitan cities.
Methods:
A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 500 adult residents of Mumbai, Delhi, and Bengaluru using a validated semi-structured questionnaire. The tool evaluated participants' demographic profiles, knowledge of OTC medication safety, attitudes toward self-medication, and real-world practices. Data were analyzed using SPSS v26.0, with significance set at p<0.05.
Results:
Only 32% of participants had adequate knowledge of OTC medication safety. While 76.4% had used OTC drugs in the previous 3 months, 22% reported using antibiotics without prescriptions. A majority trusted pharmacists (65.6%) and believed OTC drugs to be safe for minor ailments (69.2%). However, awareness about drug labels, side effects, and expiry checks remained low.
Conclusion:
There exists a high prevalence of OTC use in metro areas, accompanied by inadequate knowledge and risky practices. Targeted educational initiatives and regulatory oversight are essential to promote rational drug use.
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Sumalatha Chigurupati
Advanced Quality Medical Research, Scientific Researcher, Department of Internal Medicine, Orland Park, Illinois, USA. sumalathach4499@gmail.com
Dr Manoj Kumar Sahoo
Assiatant Professor, Department of Pharmacology, Government Medical College and Hospital, Sundargarh. Odisha. drmanoj.sahoo99@gmail.com
Nagarjuna Bandla
Advanced Quality Medical Research, Scientific Researcher, Department of Internal Medicine, Orland Park, Illinois, USA. nagarjunabandla565@gmail.com
Dr. Heena Dixit
BDS, PGDHHM, MPH, PhD Research Scholar, Department of Hospital Administration, Malwanchal University, Index City, Nemawar Rd, Indore, Madhya Pradesh. drheenatiwari@gmail.com
Dr. Rahul Tiwari
MDS, PhD, Reader, Department of Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, RKDF Dental College and Research Centre, Sarvepalli Radhakrishnan University, Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh, India. drrahulvctiwari@gmail.com
Dr. Sushmit Rajput
Final Year PG, MDS, Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery, Darshan dental College and hospital, Loyara, Udaipur, Rajasthan. sushmit6rajput@gmail.com