A perspectiva do consumo de plantas medicinais porpacientes idosos em tratamento quimioterápico / The perspective of the consumption of medicinal plants byelderly patients undergoing chemotherapy treatment

O câncer, frequentemente relacionado ao envelhecimento, impulsiona pacientes a buscarem tratamento hospitalar ou métodos alternativos, como plantas medicinais. Este estudo visou avaliar os perfis sociodemográfico e clínico e o consumo de plantas para fins medicinais entre pacientes idosos em tratamento oncológico no Hospital Araújo Jorge (HAJ). Dados de 55 pacientes foram analisados, abrangendo informações sociodemográficas, tipos de câncer, tratamento, a utilização de plantas medicinais, o objetivo de uso, as fontes de informações sobre plantas e se notaram alguma reação adversa após o consumo. A faixa etária mais encontrada foi 61 a 70 anos (67,27%), a maioria dos pacientes eram homens (63,64%), com ensino fundamental incompleto (32,73%), casados (56,36%) e que moram no interior de Goiás (43,64%). Quanto ao tratamento, a maioria realizava quimioterapia (40,00%) e o câncer gástrico foi mais relatado (14,54%). Sobre o uso de plantas medicinais, a maioria relatou simpatizar com o consumo (58,18%), e acredita em sua segurança devido à origem natural (59,37%). Informações sobre o uso de plantas medicinais eram obtidas com amigos, vizinhos e familiares (21,81%). Ao relatar sobre o consumo de plantas medicinais durante a quimioterapia, a maioria não percebeu nenhum efeito (40,63%). Foram citadas 17 plantas, que eram utilizadas no tratamento anticâncer (29,00%) e preparadas como infusões (18,75%) pelo uso das folhas frescas (60,00%), principalmente para uso interno (46,87%). Diante disso, a atenção farmacêutica se mostra vital para guiar pacientes nas práticas seguras e eficazes de consumo. Isso inclui direcionar sobre doses adequadas, efeitos colaterais e interações, garantindo bem-estar e prevenindo riscos à saúde.

Cancer, which is often related to ageing, drives patients to seek hospital treatment or alternative methods such as medicinal plants. This study aimed to evaluate the sociodemographic and clinical profile and the consumption of plants for medicinal purposes among elderly patients undergoing cancer treatment at the Araújo Jorge Hospital (AJH). Data from 55 patients was analyzed, covering sociodemographic information, types of cancer, treatment, the use of medicinal plants, the purpose of use, the source of information about plants and whether they noticed any adverse reactions after consumption. The most common age group was 61 to 70 years (67.27%), the majority of patients were men (63.64%), had incomplete primary education (32.73%), were married (56.36%) and lived in the interior of Goiás (43.63%). With regard to treatment, the majority were undergoing chemotherapy (40,00%) and gastric cancer was the most frequently reported (14.54%). With regard to the use of medicinal plants, the majority were sympathetic to their consumption (58.18%) and believed them to be safe due to their natural origin (59.37%). Information on the use of medicinal plants was obtained from friends, neighbors and family members (21.81%). When reporting on the consumption of medicinal plants during chemotherapy, the majority did not notice any effect (40.63%). Seventeen plants were mentioned, which were used for anticancer treatment (29,00%) and prepared as infusions (18.75%) with fresh leaves (60,00%), mainly for internal use (46.87%). In view of this, pharmaceutical care is vital to guide patients in safe and effective consumption practices. This includes guidance on appropriate doses, side effects and interactions, ensuring well-being and preventing health risks.

Estilos de vida y factores asociados a la automedicación en estudiantes de medicina humana / Lifestyles and factors associated with self-medication in human medicine students / Estilos de vida e fatores associados à automedicação em estudantes de medicina humana

Los estilos de vida adoptados por las personas pueden influir en la automedicación, al afectar sus decisiones sobre el uso de fármacos sin supervisión médica. Objetivo: Indagar en los factores asociados y estilos de vida que influyen en la automedicación en estudiantes de Medicina Humana de la Universidad Nacional de Cajamarca. Materiales y Métodos: Estudio de tipo cuantitativo, analítico correlacional y transversal. Se aplicó el cuestionario "Automedicación", desarrollado por Espilco y Félix en 2020, a 100 estudiantes, el cual consta de 16 ítems distribuidos en las categorías "Factores" (9 ítems) y "Automedicación" (7 ítems), y ha sido validado con un Alfa de Cbronbach de 0.750. Además, se utilizó un Alfa de Bronbach de 0.943 para evaluar los "Estilos de Vida", que abarcan las siguientes dimensiones: actividad física, salud con responsabilidad, nutrición saludable, gestión de tensiones y relaciones interpersonales. Resultados: Se identificó como factores asociados a la automedicación a: demográficos-culturales, donde el estado civil es el más significativo con una (p=0.0205); sociales, siendo significativo el lugar de accesibilidad del medicamento con una (p=0.0001) y la información del medicamento con una (p=0.0014) y finalmente económicos donde tiene más significancia el ingreso mensual del estudiante con una (p=0.0001). Además, se halló una prevalencia de automedicación del 82%, asimismo el tipo de estilo de vida no saludable (86%) y no hubo relación significativa con la automedicación (p=0.8119). Conclusión: Los factores asociados a la automedicación abarcan aspectos demográficos-culturales, sociales y económicos. Se ha observado una alta prevalencia de automedicación, alcanzando un 82%. No se halló una relación significativa entre el nivel de estilo de vida y la práctica de automedicación en este contexto particular.

The lifestyles adopted by people can influence self-medication, by affecting their decisions about the use of drugs without medical upervisión. Objective: To investigate the associated factors and lifestyles that influence self-medication in Human Medicine students of the National University of Cajamarca. Materials and Methods: Quantitative, correlational and cross-sectional analytical study. The questionnaire "Self-medication", developed by Espilco and Félix in 2020, was applied to 100 students, which consists of 16 items distributed in the categories "Factors" (9 items) and "Self-medication" (7 items), and has been validated with a Cbronbach's Alpha of 0.750. In addition, a Bronbach's Alpha of 0.943 was used to evaluate "Lifestyles", which cover the following dimensions: physical activity, health with responsibility, healthy nutrition, stress management and interpersonal relationships. Results: The following were identified as factors associated with self-medication: demographic-cultural, where marital status is the most significant with one (p=0.0205); social, being significant the place of accessibility of the medication with one (p=0.0001) and medication information with one (p=0.0014) and finally economic where the student's monthly income with one has more significance (p=0.0001). In addition, a prevalence of self-medication of 82% was found, as well as the type of unhealthy lifestyle (86%) and there was no significant relationship with self-medication (p=0.8119). Conclusion: The factors associated with self-medication cover demographic-cultural, social and economic aspects. A high prevalence of self-medication has been observed, reaching 82%. No significant relationship was found between lifestyle level and self-medication practice in this particular context.

Os estilos de vida adotados pelas pessoas podem influenciar a automedicação, afetando suas decisões sobre o uso de medicamentos sem supervisão médica. Objetivo: investigar os fatores associados e estilos de vida que influenciam a automedicação em estudantes de Medicina Humana da Universidade Nacional de Cajamarca. Materiais e Métodos: estudo de tipo quantitativo, analítico correlacional e transversal. O questionário "automedicação", desenvolvido por Espilco e Felix em 2020, foi aplicado a 100 estudantes, composto por 16 itens distribuídos nas categorias "fatores" (9 itens) e "automedicação" (7 itens), e foi validado com um Alfa de Cbronbach de 0,750. Além disso, um Alfa de Bronbach de 0, 943 foi usado para avaliar "Estilos de vida", abrangendo as seguintes dimensões: atividade física, saúde com responsabilidade, nutrição saudável, gerenciamento de tensões e relações interpessoais. Resultados: identificou-se como fatores associados à automedicação a: demográficos-culturais, onde o estado civil é o mais significativo com uma (p=0,0205); sociais, sendo significativo o local de acessibilidade do medicamento com uma (p=0,0001) e a informação do medicamento com uma (p=0,0014) e finalmente econômicos onde tem mais significância a renda mensal do estudante com uma (p=0,0001). Além disso, foi encontrada uma prevalência de automedicação de 82%, assim como o tipo de estilo de vida não saudável (86%) e não houve relação significativa com a automedicação (p=0,8119). Conclusão: os fatores associados à automedicação abrangem aspectos demográficos-culturais, sociais e econômicos. Foi observada uma alta prevalência de automedicação, atingindo 82%. Não foi encontrada relação significativa entre o nível de estilo de vida e a prática de automedicação neste contexto particular.

Construction and validity of an item bank on risk self-medication / Construcción y validez de un banco de ítems sobre riesgo de automedicación / Construção e validação de um banco de itens sobre automedicação de risco

ABSTRACT Objective: to construct an item bank to measure risk self-medication and assess its content validity. Method: this is a methodological study carried out from May to October 2022, with two phases: 1) item bank elaboration in the light of medication literacy and Theory of Planned Behavior based on a scoping review; and 2) content validity by twenty-two health experts. The Content Validity Index, Content Validity Ratio, binomial exact test for small samples and intraclass correlation coefficient were calculated. Results: Risk Self-Medication construct item elaboration was based on a broad review of solidified national and international publications in the health area. The definitions were approved by judges, with their respective domains. In the first version, the bank contained 136 items. Two rounds of analysis were carried out with judges, which resulted in the removal of 87 items. The final version presented 49 items, distributed across three domains: Medication literacy; Behavioral intention; and Behavior. The total Content Validity Index was 0.89, with excellent reliability (0.964). There was significant disagreement in the attribution of scores among judges (p>0.05) in some items. Conclusion: the item bank has satisfactory content. It is recommended to undergo semantic analysis and subsequent structure validity.

RESUMEN Objetivo: construir un banco de ítems para medir el riesgo de automedicación y evaluar su validez de contenido. Método: estudio metodológico realizado de mayo a octubre de 2022, con dos fases: 1) elaboración del banco de ítems a la luz de la alfabetización en medicamentos y la Teoría del Comportamiento Planificado a partir de una revisión del alcance; y 2) validez de contenido por veintidós expertos en salud. Se calcularon el Índice de Validez de Contenido, el Content Validity Ratio, la prueba exacta binomial para muestras pequeñas y el coeficiente de correlación intraclase. Resultados: la elaboración de los ítems del constructo Automedicación de Riesgo se basó en una amplia revisión de publicaciones nacionales e internacionales solidificadas en el área de la salud. Las definiciones fueron aprobadas por los jueces, con sus respectivos dominios. En la primera versión, el banco contenía 136 artículos. Se realizaron dos rondas de análisis con jueces, que resultaron en la eliminación de 87 ítems. La versión final presentó 49 ítems, distribuidos en tres dominios: alfabetización en medicina; Intención del comportamiento; y Comportamiento. El Índice de Validez de Contenido total fue de 0,89, con excelente confiabilidad (0,964). Hubo desacuerdo significativo en la atribución de puntuaciones entre los jueces (p>0,05) en algunos ítems. Conclusión: el banco de artículos tiene un contenido satisfactorio. Se recomienda someterse a un análisis semántico y posterior validez de la estructura interna.

RESUMO Objetivo: construir um banco de itens para mensuração da automedicação de risco e realizar sua validação de conteúdo. Método: estudo metodológico realizado no período de maio a outubro 2022, com duas fases: 1) elaboração do banco de itens, à luz do letramento em medicamentos e Teoria do Comportamento Planejado, a partir de revisão de escopo e 2) validação de conteúdo, por vinte e dois especialistas da saúde. Calculou-se o Índice de Validade de Conteúdo, Content Validity Ratio, teste exato binomial para amostras pequenas e coeficiente de correlação intraclasse. Resultados: a elaboração dos itens do constructo Automedicação de Risco foi fundamentada na ampla revisão de publicações nacionais e internacionais solidificadas na área da saúde. As definições foram aprovadas pelos juízes, com seus respectivos domínios. Na primeira versão, o banco continha 136 itens; foram realizadas duas rodadas de análises com juízes, que resultaram na remoção de 87 itens. A versão final apresentou 49 itens, distribuídos em três domínios: Letramento em medicamentos, Intenção do comportamento e Comportamento. O Índice de Validade de Conteúdo total foi de 0,89, com confiabilidade excelente (0,964). Houve discordância significativa na atribuição da pontuação entre os juízes (p>0,05) em alguns itens. Conclusão: o banco de itens apresenta conteúdo satisfatório. Recomenda-se passar por análise semântica e posterior validação da estrutura interna.

REVISIÓN NARRATIVA: AUTOMEDICACIÓN EN ESTUDIANTES DEL ÁREA DE LA SALUD RELACIONADO CON SALUD MENTAL EN PANDEMIA COVID-19, 2020 - 2022 / NARRATIVE REVIEW: SELF-MEDICATION IN STUDENTS OF THE HEALTH PROFESSIONS AS RELATED TO MENTAL HEALTH DURING THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC, 2020-2022

INTRODUCCIÓN: Se ha observado desde el inicio de la pandemia cómo ha evolucionado y deteriorado la salud de los estudiantes principalmente en carreras del área de la salud, llevando a una parte de ellos a la automedicación OBJETIVO: Analizar la evidencia científica respecto a la automedicación en estudiantes del área de la salud en relación a problemas de salud mental en la pandemia COVID-19. METODOLOGÍA: Se realizó una revisión narrativa, la investigación se realizó desde abril hasta diciembre del año 2022, los textos incluidos fueron en idioma español, inglés y portugués. Se utilizaron 4 bases de datos. RESULTADOS: 4 artículos fueron identificados y rescatados, 3 latinoamericanos en específico todos de Brasil y un asiático, de universidades tanto públicas como privadas, todas las investigaciones tuvieron el denominador común COVID-19 y su correlación con automedicación solo en estudiantes universitarios del área de la salud, todas publicadas solo entre 2020 y 2022. CONCLUSIONES: Las carreras del ámbito de la salud que más se automedicaron son en orden: medicina, enfermería y farmacia. Los fármacos más utilizados fueron: ansiolíticos, antidepresivos e hipnóticos. Los trastornos de salud mental más evidenciados para la automedicación fueron ansiedad, depresión, alteración en los patrones del sueño, estrés, miedo, crisis de angustia, confusión, impotencia e ira, todas como efectos pandémicos. La automedicación es más frecuente a medida que los estudiantes van avanzando en su formación académica. Factores para la automedicación fueron problemas en el ámbito socioeconómico-familiar, falta de acceso a internet, falta de actividades prácticas, posible contagio.

BACKGROUND: Since the beginning of the pandemic, it has been observed that the health of students, especially those in health-related careers, has evolved and deteriorated, leading some to self-medication OBJECTIVE: To analyze the scientific evidence regarding self-medication of students in the health professions, in relation to mental health problems associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. METHODOLOGY: A narrative review was conducted; the research was carried out from April to December 2022 based on texts in Spanish, English, and Portuguese. 4 databases were used. RESULTS: 4 articles were identified and selected: 3 from Latin America, specifically from Brazil, and one Asian. The articles were from both public and private universities. All the investigations had the common denominator of COVID-19 and its correlation with self-medication in university students from the health professions. All were published between 2020 and 2022. CONCLUSIONS: The health professions careers that include the most self-medicating students are, in order, medicine, nursing and pharmacy. The drugs most used for self-medication are anxiolytics, antidepressants, and hypnotics. The most common mental health disorders for self-medication are anxiety, depression, altered sleep patterns, stress, fear, panic attacks, confusion, impotence, and anger; all as pandemic effects. Self-medication is more common as students' progress in their academic training. Factors for self-medication include problems in the socioeconomic-family environment, lack of internet access, lack of practical activities, and possible contagion.

Automedicación en salud bucal en Bogotá: estudio etnográfico

Introducción: la automedicación en salud bucal es una práctica censurada por la biomedicina; sin embargo, es una actividad frecuente que sintetiza la interacción de las personas con diferentes modelos de atención a la salud, en donde se materializa la trama estructural y simbólica del campo sanitario. El objetivo de este estudio fue comprender los saberes y prácticas sobre automedicación salud bucal en Bogotá. Métodos: investigación cualitativa con enfoque etnográfico. Se utilizaron herramientas como observación participante, entrevista etnográfica y diario de campo. Se eligieron siete familias de Bogotá a partir de una muestra tipológica ideal. Resultados: existen barreras de acceso a la atención odontológica que se incrementan a través de mecanismos de segregación que se relacionan con la estructura urbana de la ciudad, barreras que motivan la utilización de diversos medicamentos frente a las dolencias. La boca tiene diversos significados. Se reconoce la caries y sus efectos, y en su prevención se usan sedas, pastas, enjuagues y cepillos, elementos que proceden de la industria farmacéutica. El padecimiento más común es la odontalgia y para tratarla se utilizan principalmente analgésicos de origen farmacéutico. Conclusiones: la automedicación en salud bucal es un proceso consciente que realizan los sujetos desde sus propios razonamientos y recursos, con el propósito de prevenir y atender sus dolencias. Esta práctica se relaciona con las representaciones sociales sobre la boca, con el acceso a los servicios de atención odontológica, y con la disposición y obtención de insumos terapéuticos.

Introduction: self-medication in oral health is a practice censured by biomedicine; however, it is a frequent activity that synthesizes the interaction of people with different models of health care, where the structural and symbolic fabric of the health field materializes. The objective was to understand the knowledge and practices on oral health self-medication in Bogota. Methods: qualitative research with ethnographic approach. Tools such as participant observation, ethnographic interview and field diary were used. Seven families from Bogota were chosen from an ideal typological sample. Results: there are barriers to access to dental care that are increased through segregation mechanisms that are related to the urban structure of the city, barriers that motivate the use of various medications in the face of ailments. The mouth has diverse meanings. Caries and its effects are recognized, and in its prevention silks, pastes, rinses and brushes are used, elements that come from the pharmaceutical industry. The most common ailment is odontalgia, and analgesics of pharmaceutical origin are mainly used to treat it. Conclusions: self-medication in oral health is a conscious process carried out by the subjects from their own reasoning and resources, to prevent and treat their ailments. This practice is related to social representations about the mouth, to access to dental care services, and to the availability and obtaining of therapeutic supplies.

Prevalence and the Factors Associated with Self‑Medication Practice: A Community‑Based Cross‑Sectional Study in an Urban Area of Purba Bardhaman, West Bengal, India

Introduction:Self‑medication (SM) is popular globally but leads to the wastage of resources, health hazards, and resistance to pathogens. This study aims to ascertain the frequency and manner, in which SM practices were employed by the urban population of Purba Bardhaman district, West Bengal. Materials and Methods: The study was an observational cross‑sectional one conducted in Burdwan Municipality, West Bengal, India, using a sample size of 180 adults (aged at least 18 years), residing in the study area, i.e., urban slum area for at least 6 months and conducted over 2 months. The data have been collected through a semi‑structured schedule consisting of questions on the sociodemographic characteristics of the study subjects and their SM practices. The data were thereafter analyzed, wherein descriptive statistics and a Chi‑square test were used. Results: It was found that SM was prevalent among 48.9% of the study population, with most participants practicing SM for body pain, headache, and fever. Among the different classes of drugs used, analgesics were the most common (31.8%), followed by antipyretics (25.0%) and antacids (20.5%). The correlation between sociodemographic characteristics and the practice of SM showed that individuals below the age of 36 were found to be more likely to engage in SM, along with individuals who had a low monthly income, and no comorbidities. These subjects were practicing SM more than their counterparts and it was statistically significant with theP < 0.05. Conclusion: The study emphasizes the importance of awareness and education regarding the proper use of over‑the‑counter drugs and recommends educating pharmacists and the public about the same. Public health programs should be introduced for the people living in slums to create cautiousness about SM.

La medicalización de los servicios de salud y la publicidad masiva de medicamentos en la automedicación y la polifarmacia / Medicalization of Health Services and Massive Advertising of Drugs in Self-Medication and Polypharmacy

La medicalización de los servicios de salud y la publicidad masiva de medicamentos en la automedicación y la polifarmacia son temas relevantes de interés mundial. Se encuentran vinculados a la calidad de vida, el deterioro de la salud, la funcionalidad, la autonomía y los actuales modelos económicos y de salud pública. Estos mal manejados perpetúan un círculo perjudicial que trasciende las políticas públicas, las naciones y la sociedad en su conjunto. Ambos modifican el pronóstico de las enfermedades de base (transmisibles o no transmisibles), las comorbilidades, y los procesos farmacocinéticos y farmacodinámicos, cambian su índice terapéutico, y su relación entre las concentraciones para producir efectos terapéuticos o tóxicos. Ejemplos como la insuficiencia renal atribuida al consumo frecuente de antiinflamatorios no esteroideos y la suspensión de metformina en personas adultas mayores con un filtrado glomerular < 30 ml/min o la presencia de comorbilidades(AU)

The medicalization of health services and the massive advertising of drugs in self-medication and polypharmacy are relevant issues of global interest. They are linked to the quality of life, deterioration of health and current autonomy of the economic and public health models. The medicalization of poorly managed services perpetuates a harmful circle that transcends public policies, modifying the prognosis of underlying communicable and non-communicable diseases, comorbidities, and pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic processes. As a result of these problems, alterations appear in the therapeutic index and its relationship between concentrations to produce therapeutic or toxic effects. This global problem of polypharmacy in public health mainly affects the elderly(A)

A comparative study of knowledge, attitude, and practice of self-medication among medical and nursing students in a government medical college of Eastern India

Background: Self-medication is defined as use of medicines without a doctor’s prescription and is frequently practiced among students in medical and nursing colleges. The purpose of this study was to compare the knowledge, attitude and practice of self-medication between 2nd year medical and nursing students in a government medical college of West Bengal, India. Aims and Objectives: The objectives of the study were to assess the knowledge, attitude and practice of self-medication among 2nd year medical students and nursing students and to compare their differences if any. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, observational, and questionnaire based study conducted between two groups of students, medical, and nursing, who were interviewed with a prevalidated questionnaire. Demographic data and questions regarding knowledge, attitude, and practice of self-medication were included. Details and purpose of the study were explained to the students. The collected data were analyzed statistically and the comparison between the two groups was done. Results: A total of 260 students were interviewed, of whom 231 participants were selected involving 172 medical students and 59 nursing students. Although 89% of the students have practiced self-medication within the past 1 year, only 61% students agreed recommending self-treatment to others. Accordingly, there were significant differences among the two groups in terms of source of information, preference, frequency of practice, disadvantages, and drugs/drug groups taken for self-medication. Conclusion: Self-medication is a common form of health care with potential benefits and hazards. Our study suggests self-medication being employed more commonly by medical students than their nursing counterparts. Hence, it is very important to increase the awareness about the pros and cons of self-medication for both medical and nursing students to improve their knowledge, attitude, and practice and eventually to increase the awareness in the society.

Study on awareness, knowledge, and practices towards antibiotic use among the educated and uneducated people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Pakistan

INTRODUCTION: Antimicrobial resistance developed through the inadequate use of antibiotics; is an overriding task for global public health. OBJECTIVE: To explore awareness, knowledge, and practices, and compare the elements associated with antibiotic misuse in different University students and uneducated people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Province, Pakistan. METHODS: Cross-sectional study was conducted from July to December 2020 using a validated questionnaire. Data were collected from eleven different university students and uneducated people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan. RESULTS: 3,600 questionnaires were completed, consisting of 56.9% Male and 43.0% Female. 1,999 (55.5%) of the antibiotic users reported through the survey used non-prescription antibiotics within a one-month study period. Out of the participants, 230 (6.3%) were uneducated or their education level was below matric rest were university students. 1999 (55.5%) reported buying Antibiotics with Medical Prescription. Most self-medicated participants (56.9%) stop taking antibiotics when they feel better. More than 90% of the respondents answered that doctors and pharmacist staff do not guide them well that how to use antibiotics. 2,171 (60.03%) respondents mistakenly believed that antibiotics improve restoration from coughs and colds. Only 720 (20%) respondents knew that antibiotics also disturb normal flora and 547 participants (15.9%) agree that unnecessary use of antibiotics causes bacterial resistance. CONCLUSION: Finding from this study may have important implications for public health policy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan given the growing global resistance to antibiotics and the reported health issues related to their improper use.

Uso irracional de medicamentos na pandemia do Covid-19: revisão integrativa / Irrational use of medicines in the Covid-19 pandemic: integrative review / Uso irracional de medicamentos en la pandemia de Covid-19: revisión integradora

Os medicamentos são uma importante fonte tática de ação em saúde, quando usados para prevenção, alívio, diagnóstico ou cura de algumas enfermidades. Entretanto, apesar dos benefícios de tratar diversas doenças, os medicamentos podem trazer consigo riscos, como efeitos colaterais graves à saúde do usuário, além de possibilitar a resistência microbiana. O consumo excessivo de medicamentos sem prescrição é considerado um grande problema na saúde pública e vem sendo acentuado desde o período pandêmico da COVID-19 disso, partindo do princípio de que os fármacos podem desencadear reações adversas e apresentar danos à saúde, o objetivo deste artigo é discutir o uso irracional de medicamentos e destacar os medicamentos mais utilizados pela população na pandemia da COVID-19. Trata-se de um estudo de revisão integrativa da literatura. Foi realizado um levantamento bibliográfico de 12 artigos científicos do ano de 2020 a 2022. Destaca- se que o uso indevido de medicamentos consiste em uma prática corriqueira na sociedade e a automedicação durante o período da pandemia apresentou-se como um risco à população. Os medicamentos mais citados na pesquisa foram a azitromicina e a ivermectina.

Medications are an important tactical source of health action, when used for prevention, relief, diagnosis or cure of some diseases. However, despite the benefits of treating various diseases, medications can bring with them risks, such as serious side effects to the user's health, as well as enabling microbial resistance. The excessive consumption of non-prescription drugs is considered a major problem in public health and has been accentuated since the pandemic period of COVID-19 of this, assuming that drugs can trigger adverse reactions and present damage to health, the aim of this article is to discuss the irrational use of medicines and highlight the most commonly used drugs by the population in the pandemic of COVID-19. This is an integrative literature review study. A literature survey of 12 scientific articles from the year 2020 to 2022 was conducted. It is noteworthy that the misuse of medicines is a common practice in society and self-medication during the pandemic period presented itself as a risk to the population. The most cited drugs in the survey were azithromycin and ivermectin.

Los medicamentos son una importante fuente táctica de acción sanitaria, cuando se utilizan para prevenir, aliviar, diagnosticar o curar algunas enfermedades. Sin embargo, a pesar de los beneficios en el tratamiento de diversas enfermedades, los medicamentos pueden traer consigo riesgos, como graves efectos secundarios para la salud del usuario, además de posibilitar la resistencia microbiana. El consumo excesivo de medicamentos de venta libre es considerado un gran problema de salud pública y se ha acentuado desde el período de la pandemia de COVID-19 de esto, asumiendo que los medicamentos pueden desencadenar reacciones adversas y presentar daños a la salud, el objetivo de este artículo es discutir el uso irracional de medicamentos y destacar los fármacos más utilizados por la población en la pandemia de COVID-19. Se trata de un estudio de revisión bibliográfica integradora. Se realizó un estudio bibliográfico de 12 artículos científicos del año 2020 al 2022. Se destaca que el uso indebido de medicamentos es una práctica común en la sociedad y la automedicación durante el período pandémico se presentó como un riesgo para la población. Los medicamentos más citados en la encuesta fueron la azitromicina y la ivermectina.

Automedicación por síntomas de COVID-19 en internos rotativos de Enfermería

Introducción: La automedicación puede generar reacciones adversas, interacciones medicamentosas, retraso y fallo en el diagnóstico de la enfermedad, resistencia a los antibióticos y pérdida de recursos sanitarios. Durante la pandemia por COVID-19 se reporta que la frecuencia de reacciones adversas por automedicación se ha duplicado. Objetivo: Identificar las diversas causas y factores que inciden en la automedicación por COVID-19 en internos rotativos de Enfermería, del Hospital General "Luis Gabriel Dávila" de Tulcán, Ecuador. Método: Se realizó un estudio transversal descriptivo-analítico-correlacional, sobre la automedicación en 64 internos rotativos de Enfermería de dicha institución en el periodo 2020-2021. Se utilizaron los métodos: del nivel empírico, analítico-sintético, inductivo-deductivo, histórico-lógico. El cuestionario fue la técnica aplicada para caracterizar el estado actual. Los datos recolectados se exportaron a Microsoft Excel v.2013. Resultados: El 50,3 % de los internos de Enfermería se medicaron de forma frecuente, el 60,9 % se automedicó con analgésicos ante la presencia de síntomas por COVID-19. El 29,7 % presentó dolor de garganta como sintomatología de COVID-19, seguido por fiebre con el 26, 5 %. El 78,1 % utilizó la vía oral. El 55,0 % de estos internos siempre tuvo libre acceso a los medicamentos en sus rotaciones; lo que incitó al 42,2 % a la automedicación. Conclusiones: Los resultados obtenidos sirven para caracterizar la problemática de la automedicación por COVID-19 en estudiantes universitarios y brindar información para el planteamiento de estrategias que reduzcan su impacto negativo. Las autoridades universitarias y sanitarias deben dedicar esfuerzos ante la problemática de la automedicación por COVID-19, dado que es un problema de salud pública a nivel mundial.

Introduction: Self-medication can generate adverse reactions, drug interactions, delay and failure in the diagnosis of the disease, resistance to antibiotics and loss of health resources. During the COVID-19 pandemic, it is reported that the frequency of adverse reactions due to self-medication has doubled. Objective: To identify the various causes and factors that affect self-medication by COVID-19 in rotating Nursing interns at the Hospital General "Luis Gabriel Dávila" in Tulcán, Ecuador. Method: A descriptive-analytical-correlational cross-sectional study was carried out on self-medication in 64 rotating Nursing interns of said institution in the period 2020-2021. Methods were used: empirical, analytical-synthetic, inductive-deductive, historical-logical level. The questionnaire was the technique applied to characterize the current state. The collected data was exported to Microsoft Excel v.2013. Results: 50.3% of Nursing inmates took frequent medication, 60.9% self-medicated with analgesics in the presence of symptoms due to COVID-19. 29.7% presented sore throat as a symptom of COVID-19, followed by fever with 26.5%. 78.1% used the oral route. 55.0% of these inmates always had free access to medications in their rotations; which prompted 42.2% to self-medication. Conclusions: The results obtained serve to characterize the problem of self-medication by COVID-19 in university students and provide information for the formulation of strategies that reduce its negative impact. The university and health authorities must dedicate efforts to the problem of self-medication by COVID-19, since it is a public health problem worldwide.

Introdução: A automedicação pode gerar reações adversas, interações medicamentosas, atraso e falha no diagnóstico da doença, resistência a antibióticos e perda de recursos de saúde. Durante a pandemia de COVID-19, foi relatado que a frequência de reações adversas devido à automedicação dobrou. Objetivo: Identificar as várias causas e fatores que afetam a automedicação por COVID-19 em internos de enfermagem rotativos no Hospital General "Luis Gabriel Dávila" em Tulcán, Equador. Método: Realizou-se um estudo transversal descritivo-analítico-correlacional sobre a automedicação em 64 internos rotativos de Enfermagem da referida instituição no período 2020-2021. Os métodos utilizados foram: nível empírico, analítico-sintético, indutivo-dedutivo, histórico-lógico. O questionário foi a técnica aplicada para caracterizar o estado atual. Os dados coletados foram exportados para o Microsoft Excel v.2013. Resultados: 50,3% dos reclusos de Enfermagem tomavam medicação frequente, 60,9% automedicavam-se com analgésicos na presença de sintomas devido à COVID-19. 29,7% apresentaram dor de garganta como sintoma de COVID-19, seguido de febre com 26,5%. 78,1% utilizaram a via oral. 55,0% desses internos sempre tiveram livre acesso a medicamentos em seus rodízios; o que levou 42,2% à automedicação. Conclusões: Os resultados obtidos servem para caracterizar o problema da automedicação por COVID-19 em estudantes universitários e fornecer informações para a formulação de estratégias que reduzam seu impacto negativo. A universidade e as autoridades de saúde devem dedicar esforços ao problema da automedicação por COVID-19, uma vez que é um problema de saúde pública mundial.

Estudo sobre a prática da automedicação em paranaenses adultos durante a pandemia da COVID-19 / Study on the practice of self-medication in adults from Paraná during the COVID-19 pandemic

O desconhecimento sobre medicamentos para prevenir ou tratar a COVID-19, bem como o uso de prescrições anteriores e o armazenamento de medicamentos em casa podem estimular a automedicação. Assim, este trabalho teve como objetivo estudar a prática da automedicação em indivíduos paranaenses adultos durante o período da pandemia da COVID-19. Para tanto, foi realizado um estudo quantitativo-descritivo e transversal com distribuição on-line de questionários alcançando paranaenses com idade ≥18 anos. Os resultados mostram que pacientes (n=329) entre 18-37 anos foram os mais abordados. Aproximadamente 24% se automedicaram, influenciados principalmente por possuírem o medicamento em casa (21%) ou por familiar ou amigos (13%). A automedicação na prevenção da COVID-19 foi frequente para vitaminas (28%) e ivermectina (20%). Já o uso de medicamentos sem prescrição utilizados em sintomas respiratórios foi em grande maioria com analgésicos/antitérmicos (17%) e relaxantes musculares (10%). Além disso, participantes com positividade para a COVID-19 se automedicaram com vitaminas (6%); ivermectina ou nitazoxanida (4%); e analgésicos/antitérmicos (3%). O uso da ivermectina ou nitazoxanida para a COVID-19 não comprovada cientificamente para esta finalidade. Por fim, a automedicação para sintomas não respiratórios foi maior nos analgésicos e antitérmicos (14%), relaxantes musculares (9%) e laxantes (9%). Apesar de pouco utilizada, a automedicação com cloroquina/hidroxicloriquina foi citada, mesmo sem estudo de eficácia para a COVID-19. Conclui-se que, mais da metade dos participantes paranaenses adultos realizaram automedicação durante a pandemia da COVID-19, sendo que as classes medicamentosas mais frequentes foram analgésicos/antitérmicos, relaxantes musculares, laxantes, vitaminas e ivermectina.

The lack of knowledge about medications to prevent or treat COVID-19, as well as the use of previous prescriptions and the storage of medicines at home, can encourage self-medication. Thus, this work aimed to study the practice of self medication in adult individuals from Paraná during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, a quantitative-descriptive and cross-sectional study was carried out with the online distribution of questionnaires reaching people from Paraná aged ≥18 years old. The results show that participants (n=329) between 18-37 years old were the most frequent responders. Approximately 24% self-medicated, influenced mainly by having the medication at home (21%) or by family members or friends (13%). Self-medication with vitamins (28%) and ivermectin (20%) in preventing COVID-19 was frequent. However, over-the-counter drugs used for respiratory symptoms were mostly analgesics/antipyretics (17%) and muscle relaxants (10%). Additionally, participants who tested positive for COVID-19 self-medicated with vitamins (6%), ivermectin or nitazoxanide (4%), and analgesics/antipyretics (3%). The use of ivermectin or nitazoxanide for COVID-19 has not been scientifically proven for this purpose. Finally, self-medication for non-respiratory symptoms was higher for analgesics and antipyretics (14%), muscle relaxants (9%), and laxatives (9%). Although little used, self-medication with chloroquine/ hydroxychloroquine was cited, even without an efficacy study for COVID-19. It is concluded that more than half of the adult participants from Paraná self-medicated during the COVID-19 pandemic, with the most frequent drug classes being analgesics/antipyretics, muscle relaxants, laxatives, vitamins, and ivermectin.

Factores de riesgo asociados al almacenamiento excesivo de medicamentos en una zona urbana de méxico

Objetivo: Describir los factores de riesgo vinculados al almacenamiento excesivo de medicamentos en hogares urbanos de una región en México. Material y Método: Utilizando una encuesta virtual, se recopilaron datos sociodemográficos de los miembros del hogar y detalles sobre los medicamentos almacenados. Los datos se analizaron mediante medidas de tendencia central, dispersión y pruebas de Odds Ratio y Chi cuadrado para analizar asociaciones significativas entre variables. Resultados: De un total de 300 hogares encuestados, el 20% tenían niños menores de cinco años, el 25,3% tenían adultos mayores y el 78,5% disponían de seguridad social. Además, se observó una mayor prevalencia de analgésicos (99%), antiinflamatorios (92%) y antipiréticos (89%) en comparación con otros grupos de medicamentos. La mayoría de las familias optaba por contenedores de plástico para almacenar los fármacos. El 51% informó poseer medicamentos caducados en sus hogares, pese a que todos los encuestados hayan afirmado seguir buenas prácticas en relación con el almacenamiento. Conclusión: Se determina que los adultos mayores, la seguridad social y la presencia de enfermedades crónicas son factores de riesgo significativos para el almacenamiento excesivo, siendo la acumulación de medicamentos caducados, una consecuencia de tal fenómeno.

Objective: To describe the risk factors associated with excessive medication storage in urban households in a region of Mexico. Materials and Methods: A virtual survey was used to collect sociodemographic data of household members and details concerning stored medications. Data were analyzed using measures of central tendency, dispersion, and odds Ratio and Chi-square tests to explore significant associations between variables. Results: Of the 300 surveyed households, 20% had children under the age of five, 25.3% had elderly adults, and 78.5% had social security coverage. In addition, a higher prevalence of analgesics (99%), anti-inflammatories (92%), and antipyretics (89%) was observed compared to other medication categories. Plastic containers were the preferred choice of most families for storing medication. 51% percent reported having expired medications at home, despite all respondents claiming to adhere to proper storage practices. Conclusion: It was determined that elderly people, social security coverage, and the presence of chronic illnesses are significant risk factors for excessive storage, with the accumulation of expired medications being a consequence of this phenomenon.

Objetivo: Descrever os fatores de risco associados ao armazenamento excessivo de medicamentos em domicílios urbanos de uma região do México. Material e Método: Utilizando uma pesquisa virtual, foram coletados dados sociodemográficos dos membros da família e detalhes sobre os medicamentos armazenados. Os dados foram analisados por meio de medidas de tendência central, dispersão e testes de Odds Ratio e Qui-quadrado para explorar associações significativas entre variáveis. Resultados: De um total de 300 domicílios pesquisados, 20% tinham crianças menores de cinco anos, 25,3% tinham adultos idosos e 78,5% possuíam cobertura de seguridade social. Além disso, foi observada uma maior prevalência de analgésicos (99%), anti-inflamatórios (92%) e antipiréticos (89%) em comparação com outras categorias de medicamentos. A maioria das famílias preferia recipientes de plástico para o armazenamento dos medicamentos. 51% relataram possuir medicamentos vencidos em casa, apesar de todos os entrevistados afirmarem aderir às práticas adequadas de armazenamento. Conclusão: Estabelece-se que adultos idosos, cobertura de seguridade social e a presença de doenças crônicas são fatores de risco significativos para o armazenamento excessivo, sendo o acúmulo de medicamentos vencidos uma consequência desse fenômeno.

Self-medication in children aged 0-12 years in Brazil: a population-based study / Automedicação em crianças de 0-12 anos no Brasil: um estudo de base populacional

ABSTRACT Objetive: Studies have shown that the practice of self-medicating children occurs worldwide and is independent of the country's economic level, medication policies, or access to health services. This study aimed to estimate and characterize the prevalence of self-medication in the Brazilian population of children aged up to 12 years. Methods: We analyzed the data of 7528 children aged up to 12 years whose primary caregivers responded to the National Survey on Access, Use and Promotion of Rational Use of Medicines in Brazil (PNAUM), a cross-sectional population-based study conducted in 245 Brazilian municipalities. The prevalence of self-medication was defined as the use of at least one medication without a doctor's or dentist's indication 15 days before the interview. Results: The prevalence of self-medication was 22.2% and was more frequent in older children belonging to poorer families and without health insurance. The acute conditions for which there was a higher frequency of self-medication were pain, fever, and cold/allergic rhinitis. Analgesics/antipyretics stood out among the most used medications for self-medication. Conclusions: The prevalence of self-medication to treat acute conditions was high in Brazilian children sampled in PNAUM, emphasizing the management of common symptoms such as pain, fever, and cold/allergic rhinitis in this age group. These findings reinforce the need for educational actions aimed at parents and caregivers.

RESUMO Objetivo: Estudos têm mostrado que a prática de automedicar crianças ocorre mundialmente e independe do nível econômico do país, das políticas de medicamentos ou do acesso aos serviços de saúde. O objetivo deste estudo foi estimar e caracterizar a prevalência de uso de medicamentos por automedicação na população brasileira de crianças de zero a 12 anos de idade. Métodos: Foram analisadas informações de 7.528 crianças de zero a 12 anos cujo cuidador principal respondeu à Pesquisa Nacional sobre Acesso, Utilização e Promoção do Uso Racional de Medicamentos no Brasil (PNAUM), estudo transversal de base populacional realizado em 245 municípios brasileiros. A prevalência de automedicação foi definida como o uso de pelo menos um medicamento sem indicação de médico ou dentista nos 15 dias anteriores à entrevista. Resultados: A prevalência de automedicação foi de 22,2% e foi mais frequente nas crianças mais velhas e pertencentes a famílias mais pobres e sem plano de saúde. As condições agudas para as quais houve maior frequência de automedicação foram dor, febre, resfriado e rinite alérgica. Analgésicos/antipiréticos destacaram-se entre os medicamentos mais utilizados por automedicação. Conclusões: A prevalência de automedicação no manejo de condições agudas foi elevada nas crianças brasileiras amostradas na PNAUM, com destaque para o manejo de sintomas comuns nessa faixa etária, como dor, febre, resfriado e rinite alérgica. Esses achados reforçam a necessidade de ações educativas voltadas aos pais e cuidadores.

Análise da automedicação pediátrica em pacientes atendidos em hospital de alta complexidade / Analysis of pediatric self-medication in patients treated at a highcomplexity hospital

A automedicação pediátrica ocorre quando pais ou responsáveis usam medicamentos sem prescrição para tratar doenças ou sintomas reconhecidos nas crianças. Analisar o perfil da automedicação pediátrica em um hospital de alta complexidade no interior do Ceará. Trata-se de um estudo transversal baseado na técnica de entrevista, realizado com 135 pais/responsáveis de crianças com idade entre 0 a 12 anos que procuraram atendimento hospitalar entre novembro de 2020 e março de 2021. Observou-se uma prevalência de automedicação de 60%. Quanto à frequência, 43,2% dos entrevistados relataram realizar às vezes. Destes, a maioria era: mãe (94,3%; p<0,0001), com 17 a 27 anos (48,6%; p<0,0001) e renda familiar de menos de 1 salário mínimo (57,1%; p=0,020); 59,3% apontaram como motivo considerar o problema de saúde simples. A principal causa da automedicação foi a febre e os medicamentos mais utilizados foram analgésicos e antipiréticos. A predominância da automedicação pediátrica pelas mães deve-se à experiência com seus outros filhos. Além disso, as condições socioeconômicas influenciaram as práticas errôneas da automedicação, pois as famílias que não possuem recursos para a consulta e compra dos fármacos acabam optando pela autoadministração. O uso indiscriminado de medicações deve ser reprimido, pois, a depender da dose, consequências graves podem ocorrer às crianças. Destaca-se a importância da equipe multiprofissional de saúde durante uma consulta pediátrica, com médicos, enfermeiros e farmacêuticos repassando aos pais informações a respeito dos medicamentos, seus benefícios e riscos, desestimulando a prática nesta faixa populacional e reduzindo os erros de medicação.

Pediatric self-medication occurs when parents or guardians use over-the-counter medications to treat recognized illnesses or symptoms in children. To analyze the profile of pediatric self-medication in a high-complexity hospital in the interior of Ceará. This is a cross-sectional study based on the interview technique, carried out with 135 parents/guardians of children aged 0 to 12 years old who sought hospital care between November 2020 and March 2021. There was a prevalence of self-medication of 60%. As for frequency, 43.2% of respondents reported doing it sometimes. Of these, the majority were: mothers (94.3%; p<0.0001); aged 17 to 27 years old (48.6%; p<0.0001); family income of less than 1 minimum wage (57.1 %; p=0.020); and 59.3% indicated that their reason for medicating was that they considered the health problem as simple. The main cause of self-medication was fever, and the most used drugs were analgesics and antipyretics. The predominance of pediatric self-medication by mothers is due to their experience with their other children. In addition, socioeconomic conditions influenced the erroneous practices of self-medication, as families that do not have the resources to consult and purchase drugs end up opting for self-administration. The indiscriminate use of medications must be repressed, because, depending on the dose, serious consequences can occur to children. The importance of a multidisciplinary health team during a pediatric consultation is highlighted, with doctors, nurses, and pharmacists providing parents with information about medication, their benefits and risks, discouraging the practice in this population group and reducing medication errors.

Self-medication among inhabitants of Yaounde, Cameroon: Pull and push factors

The rampant practice of self-medication is indicative of very strong existing push and pulls factors. These factors could be economic, social or systemic. Despite having some beneficial effects, selfmedication has life-threatening consequences. This study was aimed to determine the factors which push users to medicine sources or factors at the sources which pull users. A pre-validated questionnaire was administered to participants. Data were collected and analyzed using Microsoft Excel and the results expressed as frequencies and percentages. From the total of 650 respondents, poverty was found to be the major push factor for 360 participants (55.39%), followed by unprofessionalism, friends' advice, previous use of medicine, lack of time, and poor price regulation as others. Low cost of medicines was found to pull 402 (61.8%) users to sources of medicines for self-medication. More than 300 of the respondents found easy access to medicine and advertising as strong pull factors. Other important pull factors include quick and time-saving, proliferation of medicine vendors, hospital crowds, and inadequate prescription checks at sources of medication. Poverty is a major push factor for self-medication, further compounded by quick access to illicit sources of medication. Consequently, users get pulled to cheaper sources, which unfortunately sell poor quality medicines, lack the expertise, or do not check prescription. Price control is required to ensure that quality medicines are accessible to users. Imposing physician prescription at all medicine sales points is a crucial step to fight the deleterious consequences of self-medication. Although self-medication has some positive elements, its practice needs to be put under control to avoid grappling with long term health complications.

Cuidados de enfermería a la mujer con aborto por automedicación / Nursing care for women with self-medication abortion

El aborto inducido es el resultado de maniobras practicadas con la intención de interrumpir el embarazo. Esta acción puede provocar complicaciones que ponen en riesgo la vida de la mujer, lo que muestra la importancia de los cuidados de enfermería para minimizar el riesgo de complicaciones en el posaborto. El propósito del estudio es describir los cuidados de enfermería a implementar en las mujeres con aborto por automedicación. Se realizó una revisión bibliográfica que incluyó la búsqueda, selección, revisión, interpretación y síntesis de la evidencia científica publicada relacionada con el problema de investigación. Se revisaron documentos publicados en los últimos 5 años en bases de datos regionales y de alto impacto como son Scielo, Redalyc, Latindex y PudMed. Se usaron descriptores de salud relacionados con el tema propuesto en idioma español, inglés y portugués. Se identificó un total de 83 documentos, de los cuales se usaron 46 en la investigación realizada. Los restantes 37 manuscritos fueron excluidos por presentar deficiencias metodológicas que limitaban su uso, o que su eje central no se ajustaba al tema de investigación planteado. Los cuidados de enfermería desempeñan un papel fundamental en la prevención o detección precoz de complicaciones en las mujeres con abortos por automedicación. La prevención de este tipo de actos debe fomentarse antes de la concepción de la gestación, basado en una adecuada educación sexual a las mujeres en edad fértil(AU)

Induced abortion is the result of maneuvers performed with the intention of interrupting pregnancy. This action can generate complications that put the woman's life at risk, which shows the importance of nursing care to minimize the risk of post-abortion complications. To describe the nursing care to be implemented in women with self-medication abortion. A bibliographic review was carried out that included the search, selection, review, interpretation and synthesis of the published scientific evidence related to the research problem. Documents published in the last 5 years in regional and high-impact databases such as Scielo, Redalyc, Latindex and PudMed were used. Health descriptors related to the proposed theme were used in Spanish, English and Portuguese. A total of 83 documents were identified, of which 46 were used in the research carried out. The remaining 37 manuscripts were excluded due to methodological deficiencies that limited their use; or that its central axis did not fit the proposed research topic. Nursing care plays a fundamental role in the prevention or early detection of complications in women with self-medication abortions. The prevention of this type of acts should be encouraged before the conception of pregnancy, based on adequate sexual education for women of childbearing age(AU)

Instrumento sobre conhecimento, atitudes e práticas da automedicação em estudantes universitários

Objetivo: construir e validar instrumento para investigar os conhecimentos, atitudes e práticas de estudantes universitários brasileiros sobre a automedicação. Método: estudo metodológico realizado em universidade pública do centro oeste mineiro, Brasil. Um comitê de juízes avaliou clareza, pertinência e abrangência e o pré-teste realizado com público alvo para avaliar compreensão e aceitabilidade. O índice de validade de conteúdo (IVC) foi utilizado para avaliar a proporção de concordância e o coeficiente alfa de Cronbach (a) para mensurar a confiabilidade. Resultados: o instrumento foi composto por 38 itens divididos em três seções: caracterização dos participantes (13 itens); conhecimentos e práticas da automedicação (3 itens); e crenças e atitudes (22 itens). A média do IVC de todas as seções do instrumento foi de 0,97 e o coeficiente alfa de Cronbach da seção crenças e atitudes >0,70. Conclusão: o instrumento foi considerado válido para avaliar conhecimento, prática, crenças e atitudes sobre automedicação em estudantes universitários.

SUMMARY Objective: To build and validate an instrument to investigate the knowledge, attitudes and practices of Brazilian university students about self-medication. Method: Methodological study carried out at a public university in the center of western Minas Gerais, Brazil. A committee of judges assessed clarity, relevance and comprehensiveness and the pre-test carried out with a target audience to assess understanding and acceptability. The content validity index (CVI) was used to assess the proportion of agreement and Cronbach's alpha coefficient (a) to measure reliability. Results: The instrument consisted of 38 items divided into three sections: characterization of participants (13 items); knowledge and practices of self-medication (3 items); and beliefs and attitudes (22 items). The mean CVI for all sections of the instrument was 0.97 and the Cronbach's alpha coefficient for the beliefs and attitudes section >0.70. Conclusion: The instrument was considered valid to assess knowledge, practice, beliefs and attitudes about self-medication in university students.

Objetivo: construir y validar un instrumento para investigar los conocimientos, actitudes y prácticas de estudiantes universitarios brasileños sobre la automedicación. Método: estudio metodológico realizado en una universidad pública del centro del occidente de Minas Gerais, Brasil. Un comité de jueces evaluó la claridad, la relevancia y la exhaustividad y la prueba previa se llevó a cabo con un público objetivo para evaluar la comprensión y la aceptabilidad. El índice de validez de contenido (IVC) se utilizó para evaluar la proporción de acuerdo y el coeficiente alfa de Cronbach (a) para medir la confiabilidad. Resultados: el instrumento constaba de 38 ítems divididos en tres apartados: caracterización de los participantes (13 ítems); conocimientos y prácticas de automedicación (3 ítems); y creencias y actitudes (22 ítems). El CVI medio para todas las secciones del instrumento fue 0,97 y el coeficiente alfa de Cronbach para la sección de creencias y actitudes> 0,70. Conclusión: el instrumento se consideró válido para evaluar conocimientos, prácticas, creencias y actitudes sobre la automedicación en estudiantes universitarios.

Self-medication and its associated factors in Amdanga block of West Bengal

Background: The WHO defines the use of medications without prior medical consultation regarding indication, dosage and duration of treatment as self-medication. The practice is a global problem. Aims and Objectives: The study was conducted to describe the care seeking behavior of rural self-medicators living in Amdanga Block of West Bengal and to assess the belief in medicines by the self-medicators. Material & Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted by interviewing with a pretested semi-structured questionnaire on 665 self-medicators out of 1740 adults who were interviewed in 80 villages of Amdanga Block, West Bengal. A three-stage sampling method was used to reach the study population. A three month recall on self-medication practice was considered operationalizing the “pull” and “push” factors of self-medicators using a Pshycho-social framework. The variables were Socio-demographic factors, Care Seeking Behaviors, Health System related factors, Belief in Medicines according to the framework. Results: The prevalence of self-medication was found to be 38.2%. 63% of the study subjects were female and 56.3% had a literacy status of middle school and above. 54.4% relied on their old prescription for self-medication. 68.7% had an initial choice to consult a doctor but later self-medicated of whom 53.2% changed their choice due to monetary and transport issues while 38.5% thought of self-medication considering their disease was mild in nature. Conclusion: Awareness and health education can link rural subjects with primary care facility and right decisions on care can be provided.

Self-Medication for oral health problems in COVID-19 outbreak: Prevalence and associated factors / Automedicación para enfermedades orales durante la pandemia del COVID-19: prevalencia y factores asociados

Abstract This study aimed to investigate self-medication in the COVID-19 outbreak among patients attending the dental clinic of Zanjan University of Medical Sciences. The total number of patients who took part in this research was 306, and they were questioned using a 28-item questionnaire after signing a permission form. SPSS26 was used to gather and analyze the data. There were 196 women and 110 males among the patients.The results showed that the prevalence of self-medication was 53.9%, and a lower educational level was associated with self-medication. The most common problem for self-medicating was toothache, and the most frequent drug was Ibuprofen. The majority of the participants reported that their relatives/friends suggested the drugs to them. The main source of obtaining the drugs was pharmacies. The major reasons for self-medication were the high cost of dental treatments and fear of COVID-19.

Resumen Este estudio tuvo como objetivo investigar la automedicación durante la pandemia de COVID-19 entre los pacientes que asisten a la clínica dental de la Universidad de Ciencias Médicas de Zanjan. El número total de pacientes que participaron en esta investigación fue de 306, y fueron interrogados mediante un cuestionario de 28 ítems después de firmar un formulario de autorización. SPSS26 se utilizó para recopilar y analizar los datos. Entre los pacientes había 196 mujeres y 110 varones. Los resultados mostraron que la prevalencia de automedicación fue del 53,9%, y un menor nivel educativo se asoció con la automedicación. El problema más común para la automedicación fue el dolor de "muelas", y el fármaco más frecuente fue el ibuprofeno. La mayoría de los participantes informaron que sus familiares/ amigos les sugirieron los medicamentos. La principal fuente de obtención de los medicamentos fueron las farmacias. Las principales razones para la automedicación fueron el alto costo de los tratamientos dentales y el miedo al COVID-19.