Healthy Skepticism Library item: 17017

Warning: This library includes all items relevant to health product marketing that we are aware of regardless of quality. Often we do not agree with all or part of the contents.

Publication type: Journal Article

Major C, Vincze Z.
Consumer habits and interests regarding non-prescription medications in Hungary.
Fam Pract 2010 Jan 12;
http://fampra.oxfordjournals.org/cgi/content/full/cmp105v1

Abstract:

Purpose. Patients increasingly use over-the-counter medicines for self-treatment but such products can be misused and/or abused. The primary aim of the present study is to survey the relationship between pharmacists and self-medication, to give an overview of their opinions on advertisements of non-prescription drugs and to evaluate the knowledge of and familiarity with medicines held by individuals purchasing them for self-treatment. METHODS: A marketing research study of non-prescription drugs in multiple pharmacies between March and July 2008 was conducted. A total of 2000 questionnaires were handed out, of which 1486 were evaluated. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 13.0 software. RESULTS: The majority of participants (72.5%) visited a community pharmacy at least once per month. Half of the respondents reported taking medications regularly. Forty per cent of those surveyed consult a qualified professional about their decision before buying non-prescription medications. Forty-four per cent of respondents reported asking pharmacists about the effects of non-prescription medications. CONCLUSION: This survey revealed that the general public has a high level of awareness concerning the abuse potential of over-the-counter medicines. Health care professionals should seek to understand and respect patients’ choices to assure optimal care. Pharmacists could be more proactive in the management of inappropriate over-the-counter drug use.