Navigating Over-the-counter Medication Use for Under 5 Children Comparing Urban, Rural and Tribal Parental Approaches: A Cross-sectional Study

Abstract Background: Medicines sold directly to consumers without a prescription from a healthcare professional are known as over-the-counter (OTC) drugs. Self-medication has become integral to many healthcare systems worldwide with the improvement of awareness, education, and socioeconomic status. Thus, this study aims to determine the prevalence of OTC drug usage by parents for self-medicating their under-five children among the urban, rural, and tribal populations. Methodology: This cross-sectional study was conducted over 4 months (July 2024 to October 2024), involving 300 parents of children under 5 years old residing in urban, rural, and tribal field practice areas affiliated with the Department of Community Medicine at JSS Medical College, Mysuru. Participants were chosen through the convenience sampling. Data were collected through house-to-house visits using a semi-structured questionnaire to assess the factors that influence parents’ decisions to self-medicate their children with OTC drugs. Results: Among the 300 participants, 138 (46%) parents reporting the use of OTC medications. The majority preferred cough suppressants 104 (75%), followed by antipyretics 99 (72%) and antibiotics 80 (58%). Factors influencing OTC usage included easy availability 106 (77%), financial constraints 78 (57%), lack of awareness 48 (35%), and travel difficulties 46 (33%). Notably, urban parents showed higher usage rates 64 (46%), and homemakers were more likely to use OTC drugs 74 (54%) compared to employed mothers, with both associations being statistically significant ( P < 0.05 and P < 0.045, respectively). Conclusion: The study highlights a significant prevalence of OTC medication use among parents of children under five, particularly in urban areas and among homemakers. The factors such as easy availability and financial constraints are crucial in influencing this behaviour. Overall, targeted educational interventions may be necessary to address misconceptions and promote safer self-medication practices among parents.