ABSTRACT
This study aims to examine the recognition and practice of self-medication, stockpiling of medicine, attitudes when choosing over-the-counter (OTC) medicines, and provision of information services about medicine by pharmacists and registered OTC-medicine sellers. In this study, a questionnaire survey was conducted at an OTC promotion education event. As a result, it was the stockpiling of leftover prescription drugs and the practice of self-medication that were associated with the recognition of self-medication. Also relevant to the practice of self-medication were age, awareness of self-medication, stockpiling of leftover prescription medications, and viewing of OTC drug package inserts. This suggests that it is necessary to consider the enlightenment method and contents according to the age stage of the target for self-medication, and whether or not to read the package insert of OTC drugs should be practiced for self-medication. It was considered that it could be used as a concrete action index to show. Based on the results of the stockpile of prescription drugs left over, it is necessary to further investigate the understanding of prescription drugs by non-professionals and how to deepen their understanding. In order to disseminate and enlighten self-medication, it is necessary not only to enlighten OTC drugs but also to promote a correct understanding of prescription drugs at the same time.
ABSTRACT
Introduction: Worries and concerns about taking medicine, and related factors in older patients undergoing polypharmacy were investigated.Methods: Participants (N = 9) aged 65 years or older with chronic diseases who were prescribed more than six types of medicine were selected for this survey. Qualitative data obtained by semi-structured interviews were analyzed by Steps Coding and Theorization (SCAT). Components and concepts are indicated by "" and ' ', respectively.Results: Worries about taking medicine were affected by "lack of support from medical staff providing polypharmacy", and by "negative experiences and lack of understanding about medicine". "Behaviors for coping with worries", which were composed of "self-control in taking medicine" and "asking advice from the prescribing physician", dispelled worries. Participants that had never been worried had "received adequate support from staff involved in polypharmacy" and had "positive attitudes about polypharmacy".Conclusion: Worries about taking medicine among older patients undergoing polypharmacy were solved through self-control. Moreover, medical staff involved in polypharmacy should conduct activities to initiate communication with such patients.