Determination of individuals' level of knowledge and behaviours about the non-prescription (Over-the-counter) drugs

The use of nonprescription drugs (Over-the-Counter, OTC) has been increasing to control drug expenditures. Despite its advantages OTC drugs may create health risks. This study aimed to investigate the users' level of knowledge and behaviors about OTC drugs. The questionnaire which was developed for this purpose was conducted with 190 people in Ankara between 29 May and 26 June 2017. The use of OTC drugs are high among women, people who have high level of education (university and higher) and who are in high-income groups. Users learn the information about drug from its prospectus. The second source of information is pharmacists and doctors. Most of OTC drug users preferred these drugs to avoid the time needed for doctor's visit. Hence, ensuring pharmacists to provide enough information about the OTC drug to users is critical for its proper use. This is one of the areas where the public could develop cooperations with the Turkish Pharmacists' Association and other related institutions. Expansion of OTC drugs should be supported by improving people's level of health literacy about drug use.