Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice Regarding Period-delay Medicines and Self Reported Adverse Effects Among Pharmacy Students: a Cross Sectional Questionnaire- Based Study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Background: Period-delay medicines are hormonal medicines used to postpone menstruation for short periods and may be used for medical, social, cultural or personal reasons. Inadequate knowledge self-medication and use without professional guidance may raise medication-safety concerns. This study assessed knowledge, attitude, medication-use practices and self-reported adverse effects related to period delay medicines among pharmacy students. Materials and methods: A cross sectional questionnaire based observational study was conducted among pharmacy students at Harsha College of Pharmacy, Bengaluru, from June to August 2026. A structured self-administered questionnaire was distributed electronically through Google forms. A total 285 responses were included using convenience sampling, and all provided affirmative electronic consent. Data were summarized using frequencies and percentages. Exploratory associations were examined using statistical tests appropriate to the value and valuable data. Results: Of the 285 participants, 225 (78.9%) had heard of period-delay medicines. However responses to individual knowledge questions revealed gaps in understanding of their appropriate use and safety precautions. 37 participants reported previous use. Among previous users, 28 reported at least one adverse effects following medicine use. These adverse effects were self-reported, and their causal relationship with the medicines was not established. Conclusion: Although general awareness of period delay medicines was common among participating pharmacy students, important gaps in detailed medication-safety knowledge remained. Previous use and self-reported adverse effects highlight the importance of education about appropriate medication use, professional councelling, self-medication risks and pharmacovigilance. Further research is needed to assess the findings in larger and more representative populations.
Language: English
Subfield: Pharmacy
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: green
OpenAlex ID: W7225423734