Analysis of the extent of OTC drug use between the years of 1990 to 2000 in consideration of medication-relevant aspects

Self-medication with OTC (over the counter) drugs is an attractive way of selling medicine in industrialised countries. This study examines the change of public attitudes with regard to seft-treatment, development and circumstances of OTC drug use between 1990 und 2000. In the first part of this study we show that economic figures have changed, partly dramatically, not only in the pharmacies but also in other sales organisations, like drugstores, commercial houses and health food stores. The secound part examines the individuel acceptance of advertisments for OTC drugs. This acceptance is based on the subjective of the information in print media and TV spots. There is a difference in perception between 1990 and 2000. In 1990 people could better identify with presentations in TV, in 2000 print was appreciated more. The study further shows that TV is more suitable to install own criteria - may be as a hint for a certain therapy - than journals do. One of the main conclusions of this study is that OTC information in print advertisment and TV spots should be considered more in view of the rise and safety of self-medication