Self–medication and Over–The–Counter medicine usage among the University students in Chidambaram

Gomathisankar K.; Selvarasu A.

Volume : III, Issue : I, January - 2014

Self–medication and Over–The–Counter medicine usage among the University students in Chidambaram

Gomathisankar K. , Selvarasu A.

Abstract :

The sources of information are similar, whether one lives in a developing country or in a developed one. A person may seek advice from �an older person in your household who possesses the knowledge of simple herbal remedies for common illnesses� or with a pharmacist because they can �provide a good help to assess the symptoms� and �spend time explaining how to use the medication properly� Or one may purchase an over-the-counter (OTC) medicine �based on a previous medical recommendation�. The present study evaluates the practice of self medication through over the counter medicines usage in a selected group of university students, both male and female, living in Chidambaram. 300 subjects (150Male and 150Female) aged 19-25 years, participated as random volunteers in the study. Students were asked to fill out self-reported questionnaire that included questions on their medication habits. Also, their preferences on OTC medicines related to their general ailments. The surveys showed that OTC medicines are needed to treat common health problems, Well respected by consumers, used appropriately, carefully and safely, appreciated for their wide availability, Seen by many as being as effective as prescription medicines. Nowadays people are keen to accept more personal responsibility for their health status. Pharmacists are advisors to the public on everyday health care and key figures in the supply of medicines. To establish awareness about self medication and OTC medicine usage, conduction of a large scale survey has been suggested.