Consumer Behavior and Risk Awareness Towards Online Pharmacies: A Study of Mumbai Residents
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.48047/kterg411Keywords:
Online Pharmacies, Consumer Behavior, Medication Misuse, Risk Awareness, Regulation, Mumbai ConsumersAbstract
The rise of online pharmacies has revolutionized the way consumer’s access medications, offering convenience, affordability, and privacy. However, this trend also brings challenges, including the risk of misuse and the sale of counterfeit or substandard products. This study aims to analyze the patterns of online pharmacy usage, awareness of associated risks, and misuse behaviors among 100 Indian consumers residing in Mumbai. The research examines demographic factors, motivations for online purchasing, and attitudes toward regulation to provide a comprehensive understanding of this growing market. The findings reveal that 80% of respondents have used online pharmacies, primarily for the convenience and lower prices they offer. However, 25% admitted to purchasing prescription medications without a valid prescription, and 12% reported buying controlled substances through these platforms, indicating potential misuse. Awareness of risks remains moderate, with 65% of consumers acknowledging the dangers of
unregulated online pharmacies, though 35% of users do not verify the legitimacy of these platforms before making purchases.
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References
World Health Organization (WHO). (2011). the Safety and Quality of Medicines in Online Pharmacies: Challenges and Regulatory Solutions. Retrieved from WHO Website 2. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). (2020). Buying Medicines Online: A Consumer Safety Guide. U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Retrieved from FDA Website
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