Between knowledge and practice: A nationwide study of Indonesian household drug management

The ability to manage household medications influences the prevalent practice of self-medication in Indonesia. This study aims to evaluate the knowledge, attitudes, and behaviors (KAP) of the Indonesian population regarding household drug management. A cross-sectional survey involving 1,016 respondents was conducted across 31 provinces in Indonesia, utilizing a validated questionnaire. Most respondents were female (54.5%), within the age range of 26–35 years (44.4%), and possessed higher education (68.6%). The majority of respondents exhibited moderate levels of KAP regarding household drug management, with percentages of 58.5%, 96.7%, and 85.5%, respectively. Significant correlations were observed between income and levels of knowledge and attitude (p < 0.05), as well as between age and practice (p < 0.05). Moderate correlations were identified between knowledge and attitude (r = 0.578), knowledge and practice (r = 0.485), and attitude and practice (r = 0.485). These findings underscore the necessity for targeted, pharmacist-led educational interventions, particularly focusing on rational drug use, safe storage, and proper disposal practices.