SELF-MEDICATION IN THE PANDEMIC OF THE NEW CORONAVIRUS

Abstract

Self-medication consists of administering one or more medications on your own without professional guidance and, with the large amount of information accessible on the internet, it became a common habit in the pandemic period of the new coronavirus. This study aimed to expose the inappropriate use of prescription and exempt drugs due to its easy access during social isolation, to portray the possibility of undesirable effects related to drugs, resulting from self-medication, and to highlight the absence of clinical practice and assistance with pharmaceutical supplies for the patient. Data were obtained between August 2020 and April 2021. Chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine, vitamin C, ivermectin, azithromycin, ibuprofen and lopinavir-ritonavir are the drugs most cited in scientific articles. Antiretrovirals have been reported in synergy with chloroquine / hydroxychloroquine, which was the most cited in articles related to self-medication. The incorrect use of these substances can cause serious side effects, other types of pathologies or even addiction. Therefore, the pharmacist and the multidisciplinary team should advise the patient on the rational use of medications.