Self-medication for dermatologic diseases among children treated at the HRH princess maha chakri sirindhorn medical center

Abstract

Background: Skin diseases are one of the common problems in Pediatrics Outpatient Department. Because self-medication is practiced, it raises concerns of incorrect self-diagnosis, adverse drug reactions, and the cost of self-treatment. The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence and the features of self-medicating for skin diseases among children who were observed at the dermatology clinic. Material and Method: This prospective study was conducted in the Pediatric Outpatient Department. All patients seen on a first visit for skin problems were recruited, interviewed, and examined. Results: Four hundred thirty seven patients were recruited in the study and the mean age was 4.6 years of age. Eczema was the most common diagnosis (43.7%), followed by fungal skin infections (7.1%), insect bites and infestations (6.9%), and bacterial skin infections (6.2%). Of all the patients, 204 (46.7%) had used self-medication. The most common reasons for self-medicating were convenience (82.3%), a friend and/or relative’s recommendation (15.2%), and avoiding the cost of doctors’ visits (2.0%). The most frequently encountered categories of medicines were topical corticosteroids (25.4%), antifungal agents (13.4%), antibacterial agents (8.2%), and others. Most products were obtained from pharmacies (66.2%). The average cost for self-medications was 204.7 Thai baht. Products applied by the topical route were the most common medications used (81.3%) and most patients had reported dissatisfaction with the results (95.1%). Adverse reactions resulting from self-medications were found to be at a rate of 17.1%. There were no significant relationships (p>0.05) between the practice of self-medication and the potential factors. Conclusion: Self-medication use is most prevalent. Most patients had reported dissatisfaction from the use of self-medications. Adverse reactions resulting from self-medication were also found. © 2015, Medical Association of Thailand. All rights reserved.