JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

Background:

Over-the-counter (OTC) medicines are frequently used during pregnancy. However, finding reliable and understandable information on the safety of these medicines during pregnancy is often experienced as difficult. As these medicines are often used without medical supervision, accessible and reliable safety information is essential. Empowering women to actively seek such information can support safer self-medication practices during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Objective:

To describe the development- and dissemination process of a Dutch mobile app providing reliable safety information on OTC medicines during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Methods:

The app was developed over a two-year project comprising five phases: preparation, development, pre-implementation, implementation, and evaluation. Mixed-method strategies including questionnaires, focus groups, and user feedback rounds were applied to involve the target population. First-year app-usage outcomes included app downloads, usage patterns, and information-seeking behaviour.

Results:

Input from 253 potential app-users led to the development of the MediMama app, which was launched on Mother’s Day 2024. The app provides safety information on over 250 OTC medicines (including supplements and herbal remedies) across 27 categories (e.g., analgesics). Promotion of the app occurred through various online and offline channels. In its first year, the MediMama app was downloaded a total of 22,415 times, with an average of 370 unique daily users. Information on paracetamol (acetaminophen) and nasal sprays were most requested by the app users.

Conclusions:

One year post-launch, the MediMama app is considered to be a promising tool in maternity care, meeting the target population’s need for accessible OTC medicine safety information. The app supports informed decision-making contributing to safer medication use during pregnancy and breastfeeding.