Publication: Self-medication among Basic Science Medical Students of a Tertiary Care Centre: A Descriptive Cross-sectional Study
Date
2024
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Nepal Medical Association
Abstract
Abstract
Introduction: Self-medication is using drugs to treat self-diagnosed signs or symptoms of oneself or others. Being closer to pharmacology and pathology, medical students have been more prone to it. The study aimed to determine the prevalence of self-medication among basic sciences medical students in a tertiary care centre in Kathmandu.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among basic science students from 15 February 2023 to 14 March 2023 after obtaining ethical approval from the Institutional Review Committee (Reference number: 04122022/04). A convenience sampling method was used. Data were collected online and analysed. Point estimate at 95% confidence interval was calculated.
Results: Among 322 basic science medical students the prevalence of self-medication was 218 (67.70%) (64.81–70.59 at 95% Confidence Interval). Fever was the most common condition treated by self-medication 106 (48.62%) and paracetamol was the most common medication 93 (42.66%). Of those who engaged in self-medication, 97 (44.50%) did so to save time. Moreover, within this group, 67 (30.73%) experienced adverse drug reactions, leading 37 (16.97%) of these students to visit a private doctor. Additionally, 138 (63.30%) refrained from prescribing medication to their family and friends.
Conclusions: Self-medication among basic science medical students was found to be lower in comparison to other studies done in similar settings.
Description
Prabineshwor Prasad Lekhak
Kathmandu Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Sinamangal, Kathmandu, Nepal
Nischal Mainali
Kathmandu Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Sinamangal, Kathmandu, Nepal
Swagata Mandal
Kathmandu Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Sinamangal, Kathmandu, Nepal
Smriti Basnet
Kathmandu Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Sinamangal, Kathmandu, Nepal
Natalia Oli
Kathmandu Medical College and Teaching Hospital, Sinamangal, Kathmandu, Nepal