Patient Knowledge and Utilization of Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medications: A Comprehensive Study

Background: Over-the-Counter (OTC) medications are the drugs that do not require prescription. In earlier times, self-medication of OTC drugs was not considered a healthy practice. But now FDA stated that “when these medications are used according to guidelines, they are considered safe and effective”. Although along with the potential benefits over-use and miss-use is considered harmful and can cause potential side effects. Objective: The research is carried out with objective to assess patient knowledge regarding OTC medicines use pattern, potential side effects and interactions. Methods: The cross-sectional, observational study was conducted in different cities of Punjab, Pakistan. Data was collected on validated questionnaire after getting consent from 162 patients. And SPSS version 26 was used for statistical analysis of the collected data. Patients below 18 years of age were excluded from the study. Results: A total of 162 patients participated in the current study. A statistically non-significant association was observed between the participants' gender and their level of knowledge regarding OTC medication, with a p-value of 0.442. However, a statistically significant association was found between having healthcare providers among family members and knowledge about OTC medication, with a p-value of 0.015 and an effect size of 0.008, indicating a weak positive association. Additionally, geographical location demonstrated a direct positive effect, with a p-value of 0.001 and an effect size of 0.330, which reflects a moderate positive association according to Cohen's classification. Conclusion: Gender does not affect overall knowledge of OTC medications; however, education has a direct impact on understanding and using medications. Among the sources of information regarding OTC medications, healthcare providers within family members are identified as the most significant source.