Volume : 11, Issue : 01, January – 2024

Title:

SELF-MEDICATION AMONG PEOPLE LIVING WITH HYPERTENSION

Authors :

Prof.J S Venkatesh, Dr.Santosh Uttangi, Akhila K.R, Anagha T.J, Anjali Maria Thomas, Aadithya

Abstract :

Self-medication is a prevalent practice among individuals with hypertension, driven by health beliefs impacting medication adherence and treatment outcomes. This review, spanning English-language literature from 2000 to 2014, examines the scope of self-medication, focusing on the scale, types of medication, and influencing factors. Of the 27 studies meeting inclusion criteria, 22 concentrated on complementary and alternative medicines (CAMs). Findings reveal that 11% of patients obtain anti-hypertensive medications over-the-counter (OTC), while 25% resort to CAMs, primarily herbs, to lower blood pressure. Recommendations from acquaintances, dissatisfaction with conventional medicine, and cost concerns influence CAM usage. Additionally, 70% of hypertensive patients use OTC medicines for minor ailments. Concurrent use of anti-hypertensive medications, analgesics, and herbal remedies is common. Despite varying sociodemographic profiles, low disclosure of self-medication practices persists. This review underscores the need for further studies to evaluate the impact of self-medication on hypertension treatment, emphasizing the importance of health professionals’ awareness in managing hypertension.
KEYWORDS: Self-medication, Over-the-counter (OTC), Complementary and Alternative Medicines (CAMs), Sociodemographic profile, Health beliefs, Medication adherence, Cost concerns.

Cite This Article:

Please cite this article in press Anjali Maria Thomas et al., Self-Medication Among People Living With Hypertension., Indo Am. J. P. Sci, 2024; 11 (01).

Number of Downloads : 10

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