@article{ref1,
title="Factors that influence Italian consumers' understanding of over-the-counter medicines and risk perception",
journal="Patient education and counseling",
year="2011",
author="Calamusa, Andrea and Di Marzio, Alessandra and Cristofani, Renza and Arrighetti, Paola and Santaniello, Vincenzo and Alfani, Simona and Carducci, Annalaura",
volume="87",
number="3",
pages="395-401",
abstract="OBJECTIVE: To evaluate information needs for safe self-medication we explored the Italian consumers' functional health literacy, specific knowledge and risk awareness about over-the-counter (OTC) medicines. METHODS: A survey was conducted in the health sections of six large super stores. Data were collected from a convenience sample of 1.206 adults aged 18 years and older through a self-administered questionnaire. RESULTS: Around 42% confused the concept of &quot;contraindications&quot; with that of &quot;side effects&quot; and were unable to calculate simple dosages. Most respondents were aware of the OTC general potential for side effects but 64.3% did not know that people with high blood pressure should use painkillers with cautions and 14.0% and 20.0% were unaware of the risks of long-term use of laxatives and nasal decongestants respectively. Higher total scores were obtained from women, highly educated people and those citing package leaflets as information sources. CONCLUSION: The study, the first of this type in Italy, showed an incomplete awareness of several risk areas, with regard to drug interactions and misuse/abuse. PRACTICE IMPLICATIONS: The results of this study were the basis of a following intervention plan tailored to the observed consumer needs and including information tools for customers and courses for the retail pharmacists.<p /> <p>Language: en</p>",
language="en",
issn="0738-3991",
doi="10.1016/j.pec.2011.10.003",
url="http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.pec.2011.10.003"
}