Knowledge, Attitude and Practice towards the use of Over the Counter (OTC) medications among general population in United Arab Emirates (UAE): A cross-sectional study

Over-the-counter (OTC) medication usage is widespread globally, yet there remains a paucity of research regarding its use and understanding among specific demographics, particularly in rapidly growing populations like that of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) of OTC drug use among the general population of the UAE, with a focus on young women.A cross-sectional study was conducted over a six-month period, from December 2022 to May 2023, among the general population aged 18-65 years in the UAE. Participants were recruited after informed consent through online platforms, and data were collected using a validated questionnaire comprising socio-demographic details and questions assessing knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) regarding OTC drug use. Descriptive statistics and inferential analyses were conducted to analyse the data. A total of 197 individuals participated in the study. The study revealed moderate knowledge scores among young women regarding OTC medication, with significant gaps in understanding their use and limitations. Positive attitudes towards OTC drug use were prevalent. Self-medication was common (78.2%). Significant associations were found between gender, age, and knowledge/attitude scores, emphasising the need for targeted interventions. No significant associations were observed with educational, occupational status, or chronic diseases. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into OTC medication use among young women in the UAE. It highlights the importance of addressing knowledge gaps and promoting safe OTC medication practices through collaborative efforts between healthcare professionals, policymakers, and educational institutions. By targeting specific demographics and addressing key knowledge gaps, stakeholders can work towards improving health literacy and promoting responsible self-medication behaviours among the general population.