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Abstract
This study was designed to understand the prevalence, factors in selection, and appropriateness and safety of the use of nonprescription drugs and home remedies by a population served by a prepaid health program. The aim was to develop baseline data on self-medication and indicators of need for health education programs. Two surveys were conducted, the first among a random sample of students at a primarily residential university (N = 302), and the second among all the professional staff responsible for their care. The student questionnaire asked what brands of nonprescription drugs were used for 27 symptoms and what factors influenced the selection of a recently adopted over-the-counter (OTC) drug. All medications used by consumers for 17 symptoms were evaluated by University Health Service (UHS) staff.
The pattern of student use of OTC drugs reflects patterns observed in other populations. Analgesics and cough and cold remedies were the most widely used internally administered drugs, while toothpaste, antimicrobial skin ointment and acne aids were the most widely used topical products. Adoption of particular OTC products was reportedly influenced more by friends, packaging, and media promotions than by health professionals such as a doctor, nurse, or pharmacist. Nervous tension, insomnia, minor burns, cold sores, and constipation were the most inappropriately treated symptoms according to UHS staff.
The results of this study suggest the need in this clinical population for health education programs in stress/anxiety management, skin care, and gastrointestinal problems. They also suggest the need for health professionals to routinely ask their patients about OTC drug use.