Abstract

A COMPREHENSIVE ANALYSIS OF OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICATIONS FROM VARIOUS COMMUNITY PHARMACIES

Anju K. R.*, Shifa Sohail, Prathamesh Ingale, Mayuri Ghanvat, Shakuntala Angchekar and Dr. Shrutika Patil

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Abstract

Over the counter medications are those that can sold to consumers without a registered physician's prescription. In India, OTC medicines include antacid, analgesia. antihistaminic, etc. Although over-thecounter medications are easily available at pharmacies for selftreatment. Patients may experience negative side effects and not necessarily benefit from them. A prospective observational study was conducted in a community pharmacy, involving 225 patients who used OTC drugs within one month period. Our study was mainly represented by females 51% and males 49%. The most commonly dispensed dosage form was tablets 48.44% (n=109) and routes of administration were oral 80.89% (n=182), and frequently reported illnesses were acidity 8.89% (n=20), Analgesic was the most consumed OTC, especially in males. Although, our data aimed at assessing self-medication knowledge, attitudes, and practice of selfmedication in different communities. OTC medication use is on the rise, with the majority of prescriptions for analgesics. It implies a greater understanding of OTC medications is necessary for both patients and chemists to prevent negative side effects. Additionally, it implies that to decrease usage, patients and chemists should receive training and awareness campaigns. The study indicates the need for stronger laws and public awareness to avoid misuse of Schedule H drugs.

Keywords: OTC, Pharmacist, Self-medication, Schedule H.