USO DE MEDICAÇÕES SEM PRESCRIÇÃO MÉDICA ANTES E DURANTE O SURTO MUNDIAL DA COVID-19: UMA REVISÃO DE LITERATURA

Abstract

Self-medication is when a person decides to take medications on their own, without medical guidance. This practice can be dangerous, as improper use of medications can cause complications, adverse reactions, and even worsen the health problem. With easy access to information on the internet and the spread of misleading data by the media, this practice, which was already common, increased even more during the pandemic. This study aimed to conduct a bibliographic survey on self-medication before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. In August 2024, a systematic search was conducted in databases using the terms “self-medication,” “pandemic,” and “COVID-19.” A diversity was observed in the profile of groups practicing self-medication, both before and during the pandemic. The most prevalent groups were young adults and college students, with a female predominance. Studies indicated that, before the pandemic, self-medication was mainly motivated by pain, flu, and colds, being more common among women. During the pandemic, there was an increase in self-medication, especially among those who had contact with suspected or confirmed cases of COVID-19. The spread of incorrect information contributed to this practice. It is essential to highlight the importance of the responsible and safe use of medications, especially during public health crises like the pandemic. There was a significant increase in self-medication during this period, and awareness about the proper use of medications is crucial to ensure the safety and efficacy of treatment, thus avoiding adverse effects from improper consumption