earticle

영어

Background: This study aims to analyze the experiences of self-medication for minor symptoms, examine over-the-counter (OTC) drug usage patterns, and evaluate consumer satisfaction with pharmacy services to explore future improvements in self-medication practices. Methods: A 27-item questionnaire was used in this cross-sectional survey to examine self-medication experiences for minor ailments among adults living in Korea during March to April 2019 through an online channel. Results: Of the 354 respondents, 98.9% experienced minor symptoms such as cough, cold, headache, muscle pain, indigestion, lower back pain, sore throat, diarrhea, body aches, heartburn, constipation, and fever for the past year. 31.9% purchased OTC medication from pharmacies, 37.6% visited healthcare providers such as clinics, and 30.5% rested at home, to cope with them. The main advantage of self-medication was identified as being easier and more convenient than physician visits, while the primary concern was uncertainty about the accuracy of self-diagnosis. 91.8% purchased OTC drugs from a pharmacy in the past year, 53.8% trusted pharmacists’ product choices, and 72.6% were satisfied with pharmacists’ medication guidance. In cases of chronic illness, the rate of visits to hospitals, clinics, or pharmacies was higher, while the proportion of those who “endure and bear with it” was lower (p = 0.012). Conclusion: This study highlights the crucial role of pharmacists in improving the quality of self-medication and provides foundational data for enhancing pharmacy services.