Publication:

Knowledge, attitude and practice on over-the-counter drugs, P-drug and essential drugs by second- and third-year medical students in Mysuru

Background Over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, essential medicines, and personal drugs (P-drugs) form an integral part of rational prescribing. As future prescribers, medical students must develop a sound understanding of these concepts to ensure safe and effective drug use. The aim of this study is to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding OTC drugs, essential medicines, and P-drugs among second- and third-year medical students.

Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted among 320 second- and third-year medical students at JSS Medical College, Mysuru, using a structured, pre-tested questionnaire. Data on awareness, usage patterns, attitudes toward safety, and confidence in prescribing were collected and analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results Of the 320 participants, 40.6% were male and 58.1% female. Awareness about OTC drugs, essential medicines, and P-drugs was high (91.9%). Self-medication was reported by 20.3% without medical supervision, with paracetamol and NSAIDs being the most commonly used drugs. While 52.9% perceived self-medication as safe, only 26.6% reported adverse drug reactions. A significant proportion (52.5%) expressed confidence in prescribing OTC and essential medicines. Comparative analysis with other studies indicated similar trends in high self-medication prevalence and analgesic use but variations in adverse drug reaction reporting and prescribing confidence.

Conclusion Medical students exhibit commendable awareness of OTC drugs, essential medicines, and P-drugs, but substantial self-medication practices persist. Structured educational interventions, case-based training, and stricter institutional policies are needed to enhance rational prescribing practices and ensure safe drug use.