Medication Literacy on Antacid Use in Kedak Village, Kediri Regency Based on a Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Antacids are over-the-counter medications commonly used to relieve symptoms of gastrointestinal disorders such as dyspepsia, gastritis, and gastroesophageal reflux. Although widely used, an incomplete understanding of their proper use may lead to suboptimal therapeutic outcomes. This study aims to evaluate the level of understanding among residents of Kedak Village, Bungas Hamlet, Kediri Regency, regarding the use of antacids. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 81 respondents who met the inclusion criteria. The primary outcome was overall knowledge about antacids, assessed across subdomains of obtaining, using, storing, and disposing, with composite scores reported as mean ± SD. Results showed that 91% (95% CI: 83-96%) understood the definition and dosage, 49% (95% CI: 38-60%) knew the correct method of chewing antacid tablets before swallowing, 65% (95% CI: 54-75%) were aware of side effects like constipation or diarrhea, 52% (95% CI: 41-63%) understood proper storage, and 36% (95% CI: 26-47%) knew safe disposal methods; overall knowledge score was 58.6 ± 12.4%. These findings indicate that public understanding remains partial and lacks coverage of essential aspects of safe and rational drug use. Therefore, more comprehensive education is needed, especially through the active role of healthcare workers and community health posts (posyandu), to improve medication literacy in rural communities.