Use of over-the-counter (OTC) drugs and perceptions of OTC drug safety among German adults

E Barrenberg, E Garbe

In Europe, little empirical evidence is available about over-the-counter (OTC) drug consumption and risk perceptions. The objective of this study was to describe consumers' OTC drug use and perceptions of OTC drug safety in Germany. An online survey based on a quota sample with combined strata for age, gender, and education of 300 adult German participants was conducted in June and July 2013. The survey questionnaire covered the participants' OTC and prescription drug use, risk perceptions of OTC and prescription drugs, package leaflet reading habits, and OTC drug off-label use. Seven day prevalences of OTC drug use were higher in women (52.0 %) than in men (40.8 %). The risk perception of specific OTC drugs was impacted by the route of administration, the indication, and the drugs' ingredients. Products for dermal application or plant-based products were considered 'rather not risky' by 82.7-96.6 % of the participants, depending on the product. Products for oral use or chemically synthesized substances were considered less safe. While 48.0 % of consumers reported always reading the package leaflet of OTC drugs, 44.5 % reported not reading it if they knew the drug or believed the drug was very safe. People, 60 years and older, reported significantly lower levels of OTC drug off-label use (9.3 %) than younger people (22.0 %). The 7-day prevalence of OTC drug use in Germany is high, especially among women. Consumers generally have balanced perceptions regarding OTC drug safety. Behaviours and knowledge related to OTC drug use should be considered by health care providers and regulators.