CHILDREN’S PERCEPTION TOWARDS MEDICINES

Hima Santhosh, Dr. Merlin N. J.*, Khadeeja Nizamudeen and Prof. (Dr.) Shaiju S. Dharan

ABSTRACT

Background:-In many developing countries, much of the medicines dispensed bypass official healthcare system of the particular country. Thus, prescription medicines are often dispensed without proper prescription from registered medical practitioner. The resulting self-medication practices can have major influences on children's perception regarding medicines as they tend to imitate elders. The aim of the study is to assess the children's perception towards the use of various medications. Objective: -To obtain qualitative and quantitative data regarding the knowledge of medicines among childhood population in South Kerala and to compare the knowledge of medicines among various age groups. Methodology: -A cross-sectional, questionnaire based study was conducted among school children in the age group of 13-17 in South Kerala and data was analysed statistically. Result: -Total 150 school children voluntarily participated in the study, among which 57.3 %( n=86) were males and 42.6 %( n=64) were females. In this 39.3% know the use of all medicines they take while 60.6% do not.30.6% children said that the efficacy of medicines depends on the efficiency of Doctor who prescribed it while 33.3% are not sure.77.3%believes that recovery is faster on taking medicines. Around 21..3% children believes that taking medicines before being ill, prevents illness while 49.3% do not.52% said that it is not safe to take medicines for longer duration while 23.3% thinks it is safe. Discussion: -Based on the study results, most children are familiar with the safe medication usage practices even though their knowledge is limited and shows some attitudes in favour of irrational use. Also, study provides evidence that they are not well prepared to be responsible medicine users. Conclusion: -Growing self-medication practices can have major impact on children as they tend to imitate their parents. At times, they may take it themselves and can result in various healthcare problems. Thus, children need to be well informed about medicines before they begin to use them independently.

Keywords: WHO, medicines, self-medication, children’s perception.