Social Representations of Medicines and Self-Medication: A Qualitative Analysis of Patient Perceptions and Behaviors
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Themes
Self medication, patient perception, healthcare professional, media influence, personal experience, medication efficacy, medication safety, general practitioner, pharmacist, alternative medicine
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Abstract
Discover the complex dynamics of medication perception and self-medication practices through an in-depth analysis of patient interviews. This comprehensive study reveals how various information sources, personal experiences, and healthcare professional interactions shape individual representations of medicines. Understand the motivations behind stockpiling medications, the role of trust in healthcare providers, and the impact of media and internet on self-medication decisions. Explore the nuanced views on medication efficacy, safety, and the risks associated with long-term use. Gain insights into the diverse practices and perceptions that influence medication use, from the importance of general practitioners and pharmacists to the rise of alternative medicines and personal treatment searches online. Uncover the potential for family conflicts arising from differing views on medication and the need for informed decision-making in medication use.
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[...] However, some express reluctance towards this practice, preferring to let the body heal naturally or consult a naturopath.I'm waiting for it to pass. Our immune system is made to defend itself », states a participant. (Interview 4). Despite its popularity, self-medication has its limits. Some participants acknowledge its ineffectiveness in the face of persistent pain or more serious symptoms, requiring then a medical consultation. 'He needed glasses. So that's why the medications he was taking didn't do anything', illustrates a participant. (Interview 6). [...]
[...] The motivation in the 'reserve' of medicines For most patients interviewed, they stock up on a large quantity of over-the-counter medications to treat common health problems and thus avoid trips to the pharmacy. stored them at home », declares one of them, highlighting the convenience of this practice. (Interview 3). The reasons for this habit are varied: practicality, anticipation, fear of running out of medication or desire to help one's surroundings. like to have a bit more to be sure I won't run out », trusts a participant. [...]
[...] I look at the information in the morning, at noon, and in the evening and I also read Telegram. », illustrate the importance of media for a participant. (Interview 6). These are personal experiences, positive or negative, that influence opinions regarding medications. A participant states:I had discovered that there were very toxic substances in the medications», illustrating the impact of these experiences on the perception of risks. The media, particularly television, play a key role in raising awareness of potential dangers. (Interview 5). However, the media are also perceived as a source of advertising, sparking mistrust. [...]
[...] Social Representations of Medicines and Self-Medication Introduction Six interviews reveal varied social representations of medicines and self-medication. Participants in this study were selected to take into account a diverse public. Perceptions of medicines are ambiguous depending on the interviewed participant. Some are confident, others are less so. This study aims to highlight a common practice that raises many questions about its danger, self-medication. During our qualitative analysis, patients and healthcare professionals will be taken into account. Their mistrust of the pharmaceutical industry, but also of research, will be compared. [...]
[...] Conclusion In conclusion, the entire set of interviews reveals the complexity of social representations of medications and self-medication. Although medication is, for the majority, an effective treatment, its long-term use raises concerns. Self-medication is common and is motivated by the desire to heal quickly, leading to risks and dependence. Also, healthcare professionals have an important role; However, their authority is questioned by the media and the internet. Thus, several patients have been influenced by their personal experiences, leading them to store certain medications. [...]
