KNOWLEDGE AND PATTERN ABOUT MEDICINE USE AMONGST RURAL PEOPLE OF MAHARASHTRA

Abstract

Introduction: Self-medication is one of the most modern ways of expression of the always present need of men and women for care of their health. Inappropriate self medication results in irrational use of drugs, wastage of resources, and increased drug resistance, entails serious health hazards such as adverse reactions and prolonged suffering. So, the present study was planned to know the pattern of drug use and their knowledge regarding medicines stored at home pertaining to side effects of drugs and expiry date of the drugs amongst people of village Lohgaon.

Methodology: This was a cross sectional community study done in Lohgaon. From the family register, total 400 families were selected by simple random sampling method. Out of 400 families surveyed by home visits, 198 houses were having medicines stored at home at the time of survey. House to house survey was carried out and the family member present at house was asked to show medicinal drug available at home if any and its use as self-medication. Of 198 informants, 170 members responded well and gave complete information were included in the study.

Results: Socio-demographic distribution of informants shows equal number of males and females. Majority of the study participants were in the age group of 31-50 years (43.53%) and middle socio-economic class 80 (47.06%). It was found that majority of houses were having NSAIDS (Non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs) at home i.e. 42% and 10% were having antimicrobials. Knowledge of expiry date and side-effects of particular medicine was increase with increase in educational status and socio-economical status.

Conclusion: It is concluded from the present study that around half of the people of village having any type of medicines stored. NSAIDs were the most common drug to be stored by study participants. Around 10% of the participants were having Antimicrobials. Knowledge of expiry date and side-effects of particular medicine was increase with increase in educational status and socio-economical status.