Knowledge, attitude and practices of 2nd year mbbs students on over the counter drugs

Background: Practice of using OTC drugs is very common among medical students. Since OTC drugs are more easily accessible to them, in this study we intend to analyze knowledge, attitude and practices of second year MBBS students. Aims and Objectives: To assess knowledge, attitude and practices of second year MBBS students towards over the counter drugs, to determine most commonly used OTC drugs and to determine most commonly used over the counter drug. Methodology: A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among 2nd year medical students of J.N.M.C., Sawangi (Meghe), Wardha Results: 1) Out if 150 subjects in the study 90% have used OTC drugs. Most commonly used OTCs were cough and cold medication (46 out of 150). Most common indications for use of OTCs is Cough and cold (41/150). 71% think the reason for using OTCs is familiarity with the disease.59% use chose to use OTCs rarely. 88% of the subjects have not experienced any adverse reaction after taking OTCs. 71% subjects said they will suggest others to take OTCs. Source of information for OTCs out of 150 subjects is peers for 41%. 51% think they are aware of medico legal aspects of OTCs. Conclusion: Self medication is a very common practice especially amongst medical students. It is of vital importance to create awareness regarding adverse effects and medicolegal aspects of OTC drugs.