A survey of the use of over-the-counter homeopathic medicines purchased in health stores in central Manchester.

BACKGROUND

There is little research on the use of over-the-counter (OTC) homeopathic medicines.

OBJECTIVES

To obtain data on conditions treated by OTC homeopathy; perceived effectiveness; how long respondents had used OTC homeopathy; if respondents combined them with prescription drugs; reasons for using OTC homeopathy.

METHODS

75 users of OTC homeopathy completed questionnaires while purchasing OTC homeopathic remedies in three health food shops in central Manchester.

RESULTS

The most frequently treated conditions were respiratory, mental/psychological and bruises/injuries. Respondents perceived OTC homeopathy to be effective for relieving these conditions. There was a trend for respondent's first using OTC homeopathy 4 or more years previously. Thirteen per cent combined it prescription drugs. The most strongly endorsed reasons for using OTC homeopathy were that was a natural treatment and was perceived as harmless.

CONCLUSIONS

This study and possible future larger scale studies may show which conditions/ailments are being treated by OTC homeopathy and the reasons why people choose to use it. Such information may lead to further integration within the NHS.