Exploring Determinants and Awareness of Self-Medication in the General Population: A Community-Based Study

Self-medication is the utilization of medicines by individuals to treat self-diagnosed conditions or symptoms, or the continued or intermittent use of previously prescribed drugs for chronic or recurring illnesses without professional supervision [1]. It can also be defined as the acquisition and consumption of medicines without consulting a qualified healthcare professional [2]. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), self-medication plays a significant role in healthcare systems worldwide, particularly in developing countries where access to healthcare may be limited and educational awareness is gradually increasing [3]. Self-medication includes practices such as purchasing drugs without prescription, reusing old prescriptions, and consuming leftover medications stored at home [4].

Several factors contribute to the increasing practice of self-medication among individuals. Lack of time to visit healthcare facilities is one of the major reasons [5]. Financial constraints, including inability to afford doctor consultation fees, also promote this practice [6]. Recommendations from relatives or friends based on their personal experiences often influence individuals to use medications without proper guidance [7]. Easy access to health-related information through the internet further encourages self-medication [8]. Other contributing factors include laziness, inadequate knowledge, fear of unnecessary diagnostic tests, perception that the illness is minor, dissatisfaction with previous prescriptions, personal convenience, and influence of advertisements in newspapers and magazines [9–11].

Self-medication has both positive and negative impacts on the healthcare system. On the positive side, it can provide quick relief for minor ailments such as headache, fever, flu, cough, cold, pain, allergies, sleep disturbances, diarrhea, and constipation [12]. When practiced responsibly, self-medication can be life-saving in emergency situations and allows the use of commonly available drugs such as analgesics, antipyretics, antihistamines, vitamins, and antidiarrheal agents [13]. It also helps in increasing awareness and knowledge about diseases among individuals [14]. Additionally, self-medication is convenient, portable, and useful for managing mild illnesses, while also reducing the burden on healthcare systems, especially in areas with limited healthcare professionals [15].

However, self-medication is associated with several risks and adverse effects. As stated by Paracelsus (1493–1541), all substances can be harmful if misused, emphasizing the potential dangers of improper drug use [16]. Overuse of medications can lead to dependency and addiction, particularly with drugs such as painkillers, antibiotics, and antacids [17]. Excessive use of antacids may result in vitamin B12 deficiency, gastrointestinal disturbances, kidney stones, and osteoporosis [18]. Similarly, prolonged use of analgesics can cause kidney and liver damage, along with symptoms such as disorientation, hallucinations, and severe headaches [19]. Certain drugs like sulfonamides and penicillin may cause severe allergic reactions that can be life-threatening [20]. Other adverse effects include skin reactions, dizziness, gastrointestinal discomfort, blood pressure fluctuations, and irregular heart rhythms [21]. Moreover, self-medication may mask underlying diseases, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment, which can worsen health outcomes [22].

Prevention of risks associated with self-medication requires active involvement of healthcare professionals. They play a crucial role in minimizing these risks through proper information, therapeutic guidance, and patient education [23]. Healthcare providers should clearly explain the purpose, dosage, and administration of prescribed medications in a manner understandable to patients [24]. Proper counseling improves adherence to treatment and reduces inappropriate drug use [25]. Lack of compliance is often due to poor understanding of treatment goals; therefore, clear instructions regarding dosage, duration, and method of administration are essential [26]. Educating patients about the risks and limitations of medications can significantly reduce irrational self-medication practices [27]. Furthermore, public health education initiatives can influence not only individuals but also their families and communities, especially in cases where parents administer medications to children without proper guidance [28].

MATERIALS AND METHODOLOGY :

The cross sectional study about survey and awareness about self medication  conducted in an online programmed with a sample of 195 participants . studying the survey configuration has advantage such as easy data collection and economic .A questionnaire contain detail of the participants and 8 question based on a self medication perception and awareness . This questionnaire was circulate to 195 participants through online platform via Google form called as survey planet using convenience sampling methodology .The figure details and response of participants were collected. The data was abstracted as percentage and represented by the Pia chart figures showing percentage response of each participants , the result were finally explained in details.

RESULT OF SURVEY  :

The participants were belonging to age group (12-25) and (25-45). This is shown in pia chart no majority of participants belongs to the 19 age group (39.5%). Male participants constitute (32.8%)and female participants constitute (67.2%)of study sample .76.9%among the participants were living in village are and 23.1%were living in city area .Then 92.85of the total participants were aware about taking medicine with the advice of consulting doctor . 13.8% participants were use the same prescription of their family member . 66.7% among the participants use branded type of medicine and 33.3% of use  generic type of medicine .We were adding this question  because there is chance of confusion between branded and generic medicine between participants . There both are safe and effective , containing same active ingredient and strength  but their is difference in their appearance and cost. 87.71% participants had knowledge about adverse drug reaction of medicines.44.6%participants were store self medicated medicine at their home.17.6% were feel the side effect from self medication .Prevalence of self medication among participants was good ,most of participants opinion was always take medicine with the help of consulting doctor.

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Most commenly used drugs :

Table No. 1 Most commenly used drugs :

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