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Perception, practice, prevalence and pattern of self medication in medical undergraduate students in kerala

Authors: Bhuvana K.B , Rajesh T Patil
Int J Biol Med Res. 2015; 6(3): 5109-5113  |  PDF File

Abstract

Background: Self-medication practice is widespread in many countries and the irrational use of drugs is a cause of concern. It assumes a special significance among medical students as they are exposed to knowledge about diseases and drugs. Aim: To assess the prevalence, pattern, perceptions and practices of self medication in undergraduate medical students. Materials and Methods: This was a cross-sectional, questionnaire-based study. The study was conducted in Azeezia Institute of Medical Sciences & Research, Kollam. Ethics Committee approval was obtained. The purpose of the study was explained all of whom consented to the study. They were asked to fill up a semi-structured validated questionnaire which consisted of both open ended and close ended items. Results: Total of 234 students was analyzed, the detailed results was presented as counts and percentage. Majority (61.94%) were aware about generic drugs. Only 8.98% students could justify the statement that OTC to be used with caution.230 students (98.3%) practiced self medication. Majority (38.26%) had practiced self medication for a single indication. Majority (44.43%) used single drug for self medication and most common drug used was paracetamol. 37.6% students practiced antimicrobial self medication. Most common antimicrobial prescribed was azithromycin (60.22%). Most common indication for self medicating antimicrobial was sore throat (80.68%). 26.14% students did not complete course of antibiotic. Conclusion: There is a need of incorporating self medication as an intrinsic component in medical curriculum. Keywords: Self medication, Prevalence, Pattern, Medical undergraduates, Questionnaire.