Use and predictors of over-the-counter medication among pregnant women visiting antenatal clinics in public health facilities in the Silte Zone, Central Ethiopia

Abstract Background Self-medication with over-the-counter (OTC) drugs during pregnancy is a global problem that needs to be given significant attention due to the potential risks to both the mother and the foetus. However, data regarding the use and risk factors for OTC drugs during pregnancy are lacking in the study area. The purpose of this study was to assess OTC medications and predictors among pregnant women attending antenatal care (ANC) at selected public health facilities in the Silte Zone, Central Ethiopia. Methods An institution-based cross-sectional study was carried out from February 1st to 30th, 2023. A multistage sampling technique was used to select study participants. Data were collected by KoboTool box and analysed using SPSS (version 25). The association of independent variables with the dependent variable was determined using logistic regression analysis. To decide the presence and strength of an association, odds ratios (ORs) with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated. Findings were considered statistically significant when the p value was < 0.05. Results The prevalence of OTC medicine use was reported among 297 (55.2%) pregnant women during their current pregnancy. Age ≥ 35 (AOR = 12.6, 95% CI = 6.3–25.0), living in rural areas (AOR = 7.1, 95% CI = 4.1–12.3), not having health insurance (AOR = 17, 95% CI = 9, 9.3–31.3), having poor knowledge about the possible risks of OTC medication in the fetus (AOR = 4.6, 95% CI = 5.3–12.8), and attending fewer than four ANC visits (AOR = 9.5, 95% CI = 4.7–19.0) were predictors of OTC medicine use Conclusion This study revealed that a significant number of pregnant women used one or more OTC drugs. Pregnant women who are older, live in rural areas, lack health insurance, have less knowledge, and attend fewer ANC visits are more likely to use OTC drugs. Therefore, healthcare providers should offer advice to pregnant women about the safe use of OTC medications. This is especially important for older women who live in rural areas, have no health insurance, have low knowledge, and fail to frequently attend ANC visits.