India, June 5 -- image credit- shutterstock

In India's evolving health marketplace, consumers today have unprecedented access to a wide range of products from over-the-counter (OTC) medications to dietary supplements and herbal remedies. But this growing access comes with a growing misconception: that all health products available at pharmacies or online have been subjected to the same level of clinical testing and regulatory scrutiny.

Self-medication, the act of individuals treating their own health conditions without professional consultation, is common in India, especially among lower- and middle-income groups, with prevalence rates ranging from 8.3% to 92%. Rising healthcare costs, long wait times, and easily available online inform...