UNDESIRABLE ADVERSE EFFECTS OF OTC MEDICATION:A GROWING GLOBAL CONCERN

A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on 250 subjects, including patients, students, and working staff, over six months to evaluate over-the-counter (OTC) medication usage and promote responsible self-medication. Socio-demographic factors significantly influenced OTC drug consumption, with misuse leading to severe health issues.

Age distribution showed that 56% of participants were 18-30 years old, with 61.6% being female. Urban residents (64.8%) used OTC drugs more than rural residents (35.2%). The majority belonged to middle socioeconomic status (70%), followed by low (24%) and high (6%). Students (42.8%) were the highest users, followed by employed individuals (29.2%) and unemployed individuals (22.8%). Fever (79.6%) and cold/cough (73.6%) were the most common reasons for OTC use.

Analgesics/antipyretics (80.8%) were the most frequently used OTC drugs, with most participants using them as needed (55.6%). The main reasons for self-medication included academic knowledge (44.4%) and pharmacist recommendations (41.6%). Most participants (70%) purchased OTC drugs from outside pharmacies. Adverse drug reactions (ADR) occurred in 41 subjects, with dizziness (31.7%) and headaches (26.9%) being the most reported. The study emphasizes the need for awareness to prevent misuse and adverse effects of OTC medications.

Keywords: over-the-counter, Urban residents, rural residents, Fever, Analgesics,antipyretics