Medicine use in children aged under 12 years-Population survey in Finland.

ABSTRACT:

Purpose

To study the prevalence of prescribed and over-the-counter (OTC) medicine use in children under 12 years of age in Finland and to examine factors associated with the medicine use.

Methods

A nationwide population survey was carried out in Finland in spring 2018 with a random sample of children under 12 years (n = 8000). A response rate of 24% (n = 1921) was attained. The questionnaire was sent to the child's primary guardian. Current use of prescribed medicines and the use of OTC medicines in the preceding 2 days were the main outcome measures.

Results

Of all the children 19% had used prescribed medicines, 15% OTC medicines, and 31% either prescription or OTC medicines during the preceding 22 days. Children's health related factors were positively associated wi

SUBMITTER: Kesti J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10087337 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature