Consumer over-the-counter usage and attitudes: a survey in one Canadian city

Abstract

Abstract Aims and objectives To describe general aspects of over-the-counter (OTC) product use and attitudes in the community. Setting One Canadian city. Method The approach was cross-sectional and descriptive in design. Questionnaires were mailed to 2547 residents. The questionnaire covered OTC purchases and use and experience with minor illnesses. Key findings The response rate was 57.2%. Respondents reported using an average of 2.7 different products within a 6-month period and were reasonably satisfied with them. The majority (78.9%) could not recall having a side effect with use. Label-reading claims were high, with 4.0 package sections accessed at first purchase. The majority (86.5%) had received OTC-related advice from pharmacists at some point in the past. The main reason for not asking was having no difficulty in selecting what they needed. Conclusion This report confirms the broad use of OTC medicines. Citizens appear to have reasonably healthy attitudes to these medicines and do seek pharmacists for assistance.