The silent danger in a small bag: Unmasking the "obat setelan" phenomenon in Probolinggo

Walidah, Ziyana ORCID: https://orcid.org/0009-0009-5640-530X, Novitasari, Poppy, Dinanti, Meilina Ratna and Syahrir, Achmad (2026) The silent danger in a small bag: Unmasking the "obat setelan" phenomenon in Probolinggo. Presented at Pharmacy Ulul Albab Conference and Seminar (PLANAR), 26 November 2025, Malang.

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Abstract

In Indonesia, the term "obat setelan" refers to a form of falsified medicine consisting of various tablets or capsules repackaged together. These products lack official distribution permits from the Indonesian Food and Drug Authority (BPOM), omit essential labeling regarding content or expiration, and are sold outside of regulated pharmaceutical channels. This study aimed to examine the patterns of use and the health impacts associated with obat setelan consumption in Probolinggo City.A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using a survey method. Questionnaires were distributed to 100 respondents selected via purposive sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics to categorize user demographics, purchasing behavior, and reported health outcomes.The findings indicate that users are predominantly middle-aged adults (64%) with limited economic means (69% earning below the regional minimum wage) and poor access to healthcare facilities (64%). Usage is driven by the perceived rapid efficacy (39%) in managing pain (27%), with local kiosks serving as the primary source (52%). Notably, 67% of respondents reported adverse physical changes, including "moon face" (18%), a clinical sign often associated with corticosteroid misuse. Furthermore, 45% reported insomnia upon cessation, suggesting a potential trend toward psychological dependence that warrants further clinical investigation.The widespread use of obat setelan highlights a significant public health risk linked to low health literacy and poor regulatory oversight in informal markets. Targeted education and stricter enforcement of drug distribution regulations are urgently needed to mitigate these risks.

Item Type:	Conference (Paper)
Keywords:	obat setelan; falsified medicine; self medication
Subjects:	11 MEDICAL AND HEALTH SCIENCES > 1117 Public Health and Health Services > 111799 Public Health and Health Services not elsewhere classified
Divisions:	Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences > Department of Pharmacy
Depositing User:	Ziyana Walidah
Date Deposited:	27 Aug 2026 09:45

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