Patients warned off 'Dr Google'

A new study has revealed that one in five Australians misuse prescription and over-the-counter medicines and GPs are worried about the reach of 'Dr Google'.

Doctors have also warned of the risks associated with self-diagnosis using the Internet.

Meanwhile, figures obtained by The Sun-Herald from the 2010 Annual Check-up (Health and Wellbeing) survey found 17% of Australians take more than the recommended dose of over-the-counter medicine while 19 per cent take less.

The study showed 10% of people take more than the recommended does of prescription medication and 18 per cent take less.

Brian Morton of NSW said doctors were worried patients were misusing their medication and referring to the Internet for advice rather than consulting a GP.

''Those who are using 'Dr Google' should only do so for background information. The information on the internet is not made on the basis of an individualised specific condition," the Sydney Morning Herald quoted him as saying.

More than 4250 people were surveyed on health and welfare issues in the survey, which was conducted by research group Added Value and communications agency URSA. (