Quest International Journal of Medical and Health Sciences

Medical misinformation in the digital age

Bedanta Roy, Sellaiah Pillay — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Abstract not available

Redefining iatrogenic falls due to medications in geriatric patients

Thamayanthi Naidu Manoharan, Muhammad Ihtishahamuddin — Tue, 01 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction:

Iatrogenic falls in geriatric patients, particularly induced by medications, are a growing concern in healthcare due to the global population ageing and the increasing prevalence of polypharmacy. Geriatric syndromes, including falls, delirium, cognitive impairment, orthostatic hypotension, incontinence, and chronic pain, can significantly lessen the success rate of pharmacological treatments and raise the risk of adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Treatments for chronic pain, such as opioid agonists, are also associated with delirium and a complexity of falls. The proposed redefinition of the term “iatrogenic falls” due to medication in geriatrics can be defined as “drug-induced iatrogenic falls, as adjoining the specification based on the nature of falls, and the type of iatrogenic factor.

Conclusion:

From a clinician's perspective, addressing “drug-induced iatrogenic falls” requires a multifaceted approach that includes regular medication reviews, risk assessment, personalised prescribing and deprescribing, and patient education.

Factors associated with the self-medication and consumption of non-prescription drugs and their practice: A cross-sectional study from Ipoh, Perak, Malaysia

Tue, 01 Jul 2025 00:00:00 +0000

Introduction:

Self-medication involves using drugs without professional guidance and is widespread, often seen as a component of self-care and sharing medicine. While it reduces healthcare burden and boosts health awareness, it carries risks like incorrect diagnosis, drug resistance, and adverse effects. Globally promoted due to Rx-to-OTC switches, its practice in Malaysia, especially in Perak, is underresearched.

Methods:

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted from March 2024 to July 2024. A structured questionnaire was distributed online via Google Forms, to which 246 participants responded.

Results:

Most of the respondents were between 18 and 24 years old (63.4%). The majority of respondents were female (72.0%) and Malaysian (85.8%). Males used non-prescription drugs significantly (p<0.05) compared to females. Males were more likely than females to self-medicate for fever (p<0.05) and drowsiness (p<0.01).

Conclusion:

There is an urgent need for greater awareness and education about the dangers of self-medication, especially among students who are often under pressure and more likely to handle their health independently