PATTERN AND PREVALENCE OF SELF-MEDICATION AMONGST MEDICAL STUDENTS IN EDO STATE UNIVERSITY, UZAIRUE

ABSTRACT Background: Self-medication, the unsupervised use of non-prescribed medications, is a common practice observed globally, including among university students. This practice is often perceived as a convenient way to address minor illnesses without the need for immediate medical attention. University students, who face various pressures, are particularly prone to engaging in self-medication. The aim of this study was to investigate the pattern and prevalence of self-medication among students. Developing countries, where antibiotics are easily accessible without prescriptions, are at higher risk. Objective: The study aimed to determine the prevalence and pattern of self-medication among medical students at Edo State University, Uzairue, assess their knowledge and awareness of appropriate self-medication practices, identify common types of illnesses and medications used, explore the sources of information relied upon, and the factors influencing their decision-making process for self-medication. Methodology: This descriptive cross-sectional study was carried out on Edo State University Uzairue. A stratified random sampling technique was used to get data from 120 respondents who were Edo State University medical students, which were self-administered were used to collect the data. The data was analyzed using statistical package for social sciences (SPSS) 23rd version and Microsoft Excel. The results were presented in form of numerical, tabular, and diagrammatic presentations. Statistical significance of P was set at 5% and confidence limit of 95% was used. Result: A substantial majority of respondents, totaling 96%, have practiced self-medication. They commonly self-medicate for issues like headaches, malaria, pain, and cough and catarrh. Over-the-counter painkillers and antimalarial are frequently used for self-medication, with 89.7% and 80.2% utilization rates, respectively. Frequency varies, with 49% occasionally self-medicating, 22% self-medicating monthly, and 21% rarely doing so. Common motivations include convenience, familiarity with the medication, and past successful experiences, with percentages of 66.7%, 63%, and 59.5%, respectively. Respondents often rely on personal experiences (81%) for self-medication decisions, and pharmacist recommendations (36.5%) and friends' advice (32.5%) also play a role. Benefits of self-medication, such as immediate symptom relief (68.3%) and time-saving (60.3%), are acknowledged, but so are risks like delayed diagnosis (66.7%) and symptom masking (53.2%). Reasons for not seeking professional medical care include a lack of time (58.7%), the belief in the self-resolution of conditions (45.2%), and trust in self-diagnosis and self-treatment (39.7%). Cost concerns (21.4%) also influence healthcare-seeking decisions. Conclusion: Overall, these findings illustrate that a significant portion of respondents self-medicate, primarily due to convenience and familiarity with medications, with both perceived benefits and risks associated with this practice. To tackle these challenges effectively, it is crucial to implement proper education and control measures for self-medication practices, ensuring responsible and informed use of medications among university students.