Prevalence of Over-the-Counter Cosmeceutical Usage and the Impact of a Health Education Intervention in Female Saudi University Students

Abstract

Background‎ The reckless use of over-‎the-‎counter (OTC) cosmeceuticals among females is alarming due to possible health hazards, ranging from allergy to fatal anaphylaxis and toxicity. Methods‎ In the current study, we investigated the prevalence of cosmeceutical use among female students at Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University (PNU) and tested the effect of a pilot health education program in improving their knowledge. A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was performed with 515 participants. Results‎ A significantly higher percent (81%) of participants used OTC cosmeceuticals than did not use them. The selection of OTC ‎‎cosmeceuticals was not affected by socioeconomic ‎status, chronic illness, cosmeceutical cost, or possible cosmeceutical side effects. Students from non-health colleges demonstrated poorer knowledge scores for the hazards of cosmeceuticals, which directed our attention to the importance of health education in this field. Therefore, a pilot interventional health education program was conducted with 54 participants to compare their ‎‎knowledge before and after the‎ intervention. At the end of the program, a higher‎ percentage of participants had improved their knowledge and realized the need to ‎consult a physician before using ‎OTC ‎‎cosmeceuticals. Conclusion The health education program had a significant impact on knowledge ‎concerning the use of cosmeceuticals, and it is recommended that such programs be included in ‎undergraduate extracurricular activity, especially for female students.‎.

Over‐the‐counter drug use in suicidal/self‐harm behavior: Scoping review

“… 30 , 43 Most studies found OTC drug use for self‐harm was predominantly seen among women 22 , 23 , 44 and health education targeting young females in academic institutions and workplaces could be a successful method to minimize future poisonings. 45 …”

“…It appears from reports that mood disorders may be related to poisoning in pregnant women, and early screening for mood symptoms, and advice on keeping the home environment safe must be a priority for field maternal health workers 30,43 . Most studies found OTC drug use for self‐harm was predominantly seen among women 22,23,44 and health education targeting young females in academic institutions and workplaces could be a successful method to minimize future poisonings 45 …”

“…30,43 Most studies found OTC drug use for self-harm was predominantly seen among women 22,23,44 and health education targeting young females in academic institutions and workplaces could be a successful method to minimize future poisonings. 45 Comorbid psychiatric illnesses such as depression, schizophrenia, substance use disorders, generalized anxiety disorder, and bipolar affective disorder were associated with OTC drug use for suicidal behavior. 17,21,28,30,32,33,36,46 Since not all suicidal behaviors are motivated by a desire to die; mental health institutions should educate people with mental illnesses, particularly young people, about OTC usage and toxicity.…”