
Use of over-the-counter topical medications in dermatophytosis: A cross-sectional, single-center, pilot study from a tertiary care hospital.
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How to cite this article: Dabas R, Janney MS, Subramaniyan R, Arora S, Lal V S, Donaparthi N. Keywords: Dermatophytosis, drug abuse, over-the-counter topical medication Stringent drug control policies and awareness of adverse effects of OTC topical medication abuse are truly the need of the hour to control this menace. Conclusions: The growing threat of OTC drug abuse in India is evident from this study. Furthermore, majority (89%) of the study population were unaware of steroids and their adverse effects. Clobetasol-based preparations were commonly misused, and 63.23% of the study population experienced adverse effects.

Only 32% of the patients consulted a dermatologist on developing a rash, whereas the majority (68%) used medicines suggested by others. Tinea cruris was the most common pattern observed. Results: The study population consisted of 75 males and 25 females. Results were documented in a predesigned pro forma and the data were expressed in terms of means and proportions. One hundred consecutive, mycologically confirmed dermatophytosis patients were questioned about the use of OTC medications and examined for adverse effects of the preparations used.

Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional, observational, questionnaire-based pilot study was carried out in a tertiary care center. Aims: To assess the magnitude of OTC topical medication use in dermatophytosis by studying the demographic variables, source of prescription, and their adverse effects. Studies on OTC topical medication abuse in dermatophytosis are lacking despite its frequent occurrence. In developing countries like India, casual attitude toward seeking medical attention and lax drug control policies lead to indiscriminate use of irrational over-the-counter (OTC) medications.

Background: Dermatophytosis is a common, superficial fungal infection of the skin.
