Προτιμήσεις των καταναλωτών για τα μη συνταγογραφούμενα φάρμακα : μια συγχρονική μελέτη
Consumer preferences for OTCs : cross-sectional study
View/
Keywords
Μη συνταγογραφούμενα φάρμακαAbstract
Over-the-counter medicines perform an important function in the health of the population, offering important advantages such as immediate access to treatment, timely treatment of manageable cases, psychological support for the individual and cost reduction. However, OTCs also have several risks, such as polypharmacy, incorrect intake and concomitant use with other drugs. In the current pandemic context, it is important to establish what are the attitudes and perceptions of consumers regarding OTC medicines, to identify the factors that influence their purchasing preference and to examine the impact of the promotion of OTCs. In order to establish the above, a quantitative survey was conducted with 210 participants. The survey found that consumers have a positive attitude towards OTCs, often buying the corresponding pharmaceutical formulations, especially generic medicines. Regarding the choice factors, the survey found that consumers turn to self-medication both because of the cost of the medical visit and because of the immediate treatment of symptoms. Pharmacists play an important role in the choice of OTCs, for whom consumers have a high level of trust, consult them and seek their guidance. It is very important that pharmacists are fulfilling their mission by voluntarily providing the necessary information to ensure the health of society as a whole, especially in this day and age. However, there is a not insignificant percentage of the population that buys medicines without asking for any information or instruction. With regard to the promotion of OTCs, it is not the determining factor in consumer choice, although some differences are recorded between men and women in terms of the effectiveness of promotion methods. Regarding e-pharmacy, participants have significant reservations, preferring the traditional pharmacy.