| Abstract |
Self-prescription increases the risk of adverse drug interactions, allergic reactions, and the development of drug-resistant strains. Furthermore, reliance on non-prescription medications may delay proper diagnosis and treatment of underlying health conditions, exacerbating long-term health risks. Obtaining medical products from drug stores without a doctor's prescription poses inherent hazards as it bypasses professional medical evaluation, potentially leading to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. This manuscript delves into the perilous practice of obtaining medications without proper medical oversight from local drug stores, shedding light on the hazards associated with self-prescription. A comprehensive social experiment involving 100 individuals aged 20-60 was conducted to assess the prevalence of unauthorized medication procurement. The results revealed distinct patterns among age groups, with 40-60-year-olds exhibiting a 29% preference for painkillers, 37% for antacids, and 26% for cold and fever medications such as antibiotics. In contrast, the 20-40 age groups demonstrated a 43% inclination toward drugs for fever, body pain, and cold, with an additional 37% seeking relief from menstruation-related issues and stomach aches. These findings underscore the need for heightened awareness and regulatory measures to curb the potential health risks associated with unauthorized medication acquisition. |
