Prescription Drug Utilization Patterns and Self-Medication Practices in Rural and Urban India: A Cross-Sectional Survey Analysis

Abstract

Prescription drug misuse and self-medication pose significant public health challenges in India, yet systematic evidence on these behaviors across rural and urban populations remains limited. We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional survey of 300 respondents recruited via convenience sampling from diverse demographic backgrounds, using a structured questionnaire covering 16 domains related to medication practices, safety awareness, and purchasing behaviors. Data were analyzed through frequency distributions and percentage analyses. Our results revealed widespread self-medication practices, with 63.0% of participants engaging in self-medication without professional consultation. Furthermore, 58.7% purchased medicines without a prescription, and 49.7% reused old prescriptions without fresh medical advice. Although 44.0% always followed prescription instructions, only 47.7% reported full awareness of medicine side effects, and 39.0% had experienced adverse drug reactions. Expiry date checking was practiced always by 58.0% of respondents, while label-reading behavior was less consistent, with 42.7% always reading labels. Preference for branded medicines (43.0%) slightly exceeded generic medicines (39.3%). These findings highlight critical gaps in rational drug use, including incomplete adherence, inadequate safety awareness, and frequent non-prescription purchases. The study’s novelty lies in its simultaneous assessment of multiple medication-related behaviors across both rural and urban settings, providing actionable insights for public health interventions. We conclude that enhanced health education, stricter over-the-counter drug regulations, and improved pharmaceutical counseling are urgently needed to mitigate inappropriate medication practices and improve healthcare outcomes in India