Self-medication

Self-medication is a growing trend reflecting various the evolution of various societal factors.

Factors promoting and inhibiting the reclassification of drugs to pharmacy status (from: Blenkinsopp & Bradley. (1996) Over the Counter Drugs: Patients, society, and the increase in self medication) Promoters: Patient empowerment (increase in the autonomy ethic) Rise of consumerism Decreasing power of the professions Changing balance of power within the professions Pharmacists' drive to extend their role Government policy to contain the NHS drugs bill Possible influence of (other) health care systems Pharmaceutical companies' wish to protect profits Inhibitors: Professionals' protection of their domain Doubts about patients' competence in self care Pharmacists' anxieties about increased responsibility