Prevalence of Self Medication in Medical Students

Abstract

Self-medication is defined as obtaining and consuming drugs without the advice of a physician & not based on
authentic medical information. It leads to irrational use of drugs, increased drug resistance which may lead to
serious health hazards. The present study is undertaken to assess prevalence of self-medication and associated
factors among medical students and their knowledge regarding self medication .A prospective, cross-sectional
study was carried out among 251 medical students by using modified semi-structured questionnaire. Statistical
analysis was carried out by SPSS version 23 and Chi square test was used to see the associations. Result showed
that 79.3% students take self medication. Among them, maximum student were from 4th year i.e. 84%. Study found
that students take self medication but mostly they completed full dose of antibiotics and are well known about
mechanism of action, therapeutic dosage & adverse reactions. Maximum students thought self medication as an
acceptable practice.