ASSESSING OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICINE USE AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS OF TASHKENT MEDICAL ACADEMY: PRACTICES, PERCEPTIONS, AND POTENTIAL RISKS

Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are widely used for self-medication among medical students, yet their misuse can lead to adverse health outcomes and mask underlying conditions. This study assesses the practices, perceptions, and potential risks associated with OTC medicine use among medical students of Tashkent Medical Academy. A cross-sectional survey was conducted, collecting data on students' knowledge of OTC drugs, their frequency of use, and factors influencing their decisions. The findings revealed that while students demonstrated moderate knowledge about OTC medicines, misconceptions and improper usage patterns were prevalent. Notable risks included self-diagnosis errors, drug interactions, and the development of drug dependency. The study underscores the need for targeted educational programs to promote safe self-medication practices and enhance awareness of the potential risks of OTC drug misuse.