British journal of clinical pharmacology
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Br J Clin Pharmacol · Oct 2009
Multicenter StudySelf-medication among children and adolescents in Germany: results of the National Health Survey for Children and Adolescents (KiGGS).
Despite the widespread use of self-medication among the child population and the potential harm it can do, up-to-date epidemiological data on self-medication are sparse worldwide. The aim was to investigate the prevalence and correlates of self-medication use among non-institutionalized children in Germany, focusing on the paediatric self-medications that are most frequently used. ⋯ Self-medication use is highly prevalent in Germany, particularly among children and adolescents from families with a higher socioeconomic status. Self-medication in younger children using such drugs as CCMs and aspirin suggested inappropriate drug use and potential risks. This should be closely monitored and warrants an education programme for parents in Germany.