Pattern of Self-Medication among Medical Students

Self-medication is widely prevalent practice in India. It assumes special significance when practiced by medical students as they are the future medical practitioners.

To assess the attitude and pattern of self-medication practice among undergraduate medical students.

Tertiary care medical college.

A cross-sectional questionnaire-based study was conducted among the undergraduate medical students.

Of the 600 students of the institute, 516 were included for the study and filled in the supplied questionnaire. It was found that 207 (65.5%) respondents practiced self-medication. The principal morbidities for seeking self-medication included cough and common cold as reported by 30.2% followed by headache (23%), fever (18%), dysmennorhoea, dyspepsia, diarrhoea, constipation, cough and chest pain, skin problems, stress, fatigue, loss of appetite and others. Drugs/drug groups commonly used for self-medication included paracetamol, antibiotics followed by cough syrups, Non Steroidal Anti Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS), antacids, herbal therapy, topical agents, antihelmentics and others. Among reasons for seeking self-medication, 42.8% students had prior experience with self-medication, while 38.5% felt that their illness was mild. Less waiting time, cost-effectiveness, lack of interest in medical service and emergency use were other reported causes. In all, 89.4% reported relieved by self-medication. Those not cured had to resort to visiting a physician for treatment.

Our study shows that self-medication is widely practiced among students of the institute. In this situation, faculties should create awareness and educate their students regarding advantages and disadvantages of self-medication.