A study on knowledge and practices of over the counter (otc) medications among 2nd year dental students

Abstract

Use of Over the counter drug as well as self – medication is a very common problem in India. Medical students are of no exception at this mal-practice. This study was to assess the extent of knowledge and practices of over the counter (OTC) drugs among 2 nd professional MBBS students in Burdwan Medical College. A questionnaire based study was conducted among 250 numbers of 2 nd year medical students. Among the participants, 84% know what is OTC drug and 71% know which drugs fall under OTC category. They took self-medication approximately four to five times on average in last one year. Most common conditions/symptoms for self-medication were fever (89%), cough and cold (75%), headache (67%), diarrhoea (33%), any type of pain (53%) followed by minor cut, vomiting. Antipyretics (82%), cough and cold preparation (51%) and pain-killers (49%) were the most common medicines taken. 15% of them experienced adverse reactions on OTC self medicated drugs. 58% followed the instructions as per Package Insert and 40% recommended the medicine to others with similar problem. OTC medication is widely used among medical students who are studying pharmacology. It is important to create awareness about harmful effects of OTC drugs among medical students as they are future health care providers and prevent untoward consequences.