SOCIALIZATION OF THE PROPER USE OF OVER-THE-COUNTER MEDICINES FOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS AT SUKOANYAR STATE PRIMARY SCHOOL MOJO DISTRICT EAST JAVA

Abstract

The improper use of Over-The-Counter (OTC) medicines among elementary school children can pose health risks, making early education essential. This activity aimed to improve students’ understanding of the correct use of OTC medicines through socialization using interactive methods. The target participants were fourth to sixth grade students at Sukoanyar State Elementary School, Mojo District, Kediri Regency, East Java. The implementation methods included delivering material through interactive presentations and educational games, accompanied by evaluations using pre-tests and post-tests. The results showed a significant improvement in students’ knowledge: understanding of the differences between OTC and prescription medicines increased from 35% to 85%, the ability to read medicine labels improved from 25% to 80%, and awareness of the dangers of unsupervised medicine use rose from 30% to 85%. Thus, this socialization activity proved effective in enhancing students’ awareness and healthy behavior related to OTC medicine use, and it can serve as a model for health education in elementary schools.