A questionnaire based cross sectional study to assess the knowledge and perceptions regarding concept of rational use of medicines among second year medical students

Abstract

Background: The main goal of teaching clinical pharmacology, concept of rational usage of medicines to medical students is to imbibe the knowledge, skills so that in future as a clinicians they will be able to weigh the potential benefits versus risks of a treatment along with its cost-effectiveness. Objective: To assess the knowledge, attitude and perceptions about rational use of medicines in second year medical students. Materials and Methods: This was a questionnaire -based, cross-sectional study. The study participants were second year medical students (152). The questionnaire was designed to assess the knowledge, perceptions about rational usage of medicines. Results: Were expressed as counts and percentages. Majority of respondents were aware about over the counter medicines (72%), importance of reading medicine label (86%). Majority of the students 84% purchased all medicines written in prescription. Conclusion: Majority of the students were aware about the concept of rational usage of medicines which seems to be a positive finding. Keywords: Rational use of medicines, Knowledge, Perceptions.