The widespread availability of online medical information has transformed how patients approach healthcare decisions. Increasingly, individuals search symptoms online, review treatment options, and initiate self-medication even before consulting a physician. Studies suggest that more than 50–70% of internet users search for health-related information online, and a significant proportion attempt self-treatment using over the counter (OTC) drugs, supplements, or previously prescribed medications.
While digital health literacy can empower patients, unsupervised interpretation of medical information may lead to inappropriate drug use, delayed diagnosis, drug interactions, and antimicrobial resistance. Self-medication driven by online sources poses several clinical challenges. Patients often rely on non-peer-reviewed websites, social media posts, or anecdotal experiences, which may not…
