Public Awareness about Risks of Over-The-Counter Medicines Survey

Abstract

This study focuses on a community-based survey about the use of over-the-counter (OTC) medicines such as pain relievers and cough syrups. It examines how people choose OTC products based on factors like brand preference, packaging, healthcare advice, income, and education. The study also evaluates awareness about proper use, side effects, and drug interactions. The findings show that consumer behavior differs among socio-economic and educational groups, and many people depend on brand familiarity or recommendations without fully understanding safe usage. The study emphasizes the need for better public education to promote safe self-medication and informed decision-making.

Introduction

Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are drugs that can be purchased without a doctor's prescription. They are commonly used to treat minor health problems such as fever, headaches, colds, allergies, acidity, and diarrhea. Their popularity is due to their convenience, affordability, and easy availability.

According to the World Health Organization, self-medication refers to using medicines to treat self-diagnosed conditions without consulting a healthcare professional. While OTC medicines can provide quick relief and reduce pressure on healthcare systems, their improper use may lead to serious problems such as adverse drug reactions, overdoses, drug resistance, and harmful drug interactions. In India, misuse of OTC medicines is common because of limited public awareness and weak regulatory control, especially for cough syrups, painkillers, antihistamines, and antacids. Regulatory authorities are working to improve patient education and strengthen regulations for safer use.

Common OTC Medicines

• Pain Relievers: Used for fever, headaches, and body pain (e.g., paracetamol, ibuprofen, aspirin).
• Antihistamines: Used for allergies, coughs, and colds (e.g., cetirizine, loratadine, diphenhydramine).
• Antacids/Acid Control Drugs: Used for acidity and GERD (e.g., ranitidine, pantoprazole, omeprazole).
• Anti-diarrheal and Rehydration Products: Used for diarrhea and dehydration (e.g., ORS, loperamide).
• Supplements: Used for nutritional support and deficiencies (e.g., zinc tablets, multivitamins, iron supplements).

Methodology

The study aimed to assess public awareness of OTC medicines and their associated risks. A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted using a standardized questionnaire covering:

• Use of OTC medicines
• Reasons for self-medication
• Awareness of side effects
• Knowledge of dosage and drug interactions
• Safe medication practices

A total of 100 participants from different age groups, genders, occupations, and educational backgrounds were selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected both online and offline and analyzed using percentages, tables, and charts.

Results

1. Awareness of OTC Medicines

   • 65% of respondents knew about OTC medicines.
   • 35% were unaware of them.

   This indicates moderate awareness among the public, although a significant portion still lacks knowledge.

2. Purchase of Medicines Without Prescription

   • 66% of respondents had purchased medicines without a doctor's prescription.
   • 34% had never done so.

   The findings show that self-medication is a common practice among the majority of respondents.

Conclusion

People frequently use over-the-counter (OTC) medications to address minor ailments, including fever, headache, cold, cough, and pain, according to the current study. According to the poll results, most participants are aware of over-the-counter medications and some of the hazards involved with using them. The proper dosage, pharmacological interactions, side effects, and the disadvantages of long-term use are still not entirely understood. The survey also showed that some people continue to rely on self-medication without the appropriate guidance, even though many people read drug labels, seek medical advice, and follow safe storage procedures. Adverse reactions, drug abuse, and other health issues may become more likely as a result. Overall, the results highlight how important it is to educate the public on the safe and appropriate use of over-the-counter medications. Programs for health education, awareness campaigns, and advice from chemists and other medical professionals can all help to increase knowledge, promote sensible medication practices, and lower the dangers of self-medication.

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Copyright

Copyright © 2026 Prachi Nachan . This is an open access article distributed under the Creative Commons Attribution License, which permits unrestricted use, distribution, and reproduction in any medium, provided the original work is properly cited.