PREVALENCE OF SELF-MEDICATION AMONG STUDENTS IN BAZE UNIVERSITY AND ASSOCIATED RISKS

This study assessed the prevalence and associated risks of self-medication among undergraduate students at Baze University, Abuja. A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted involving 360 students selected through an online survey. Data was collected using a structured online questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 25.0 for descriptive statistics. Findings revealed that 68.6% of respondents had self-medication without consulting a doctor. The most frequently self-treated conditions included headaches, malaria, fever, and body pain. Analgesics, antibiotics, and antimalarials were the most commonly used drugs, often obtained from patent medicine stores, pharmacies, or leftover prescriptions. The primary reasons for self-medication included convenience (76.1%), prior experience with the drug (69.6%), and unaffordable healthcare costs (61.5%). Despite the high prevalence of self-medication, 80.2% of respondents acknowledged the health risks, which included allergic reactions, incorrect dosages, and drug resistance. Notably, 41.3% of those who had self-medication reported some side effects. In conclusion, self-medication is highly prevalent among Baze University students, driven largely by cost barriers and misinformation. Although awareness of the risks is relatively high, unsafe practices persist, emphasizing the need for regulatory enforcement and vigorous health education. The study recommends targeted interventions to promote responsible drug use and reduce health risks associated with self-medication among undergraduates.