Knowledge, Perception and Practice among Pharmacy Students Regarding Self-Medication in Eastern Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Survey
Evaristus Chinonso Odoh, Shadrach Chinecherem Eze, Ugomma Loveth Anyaji, Kingsley Chinemerem Eze, Emmanuel Chijiekwu Nwachukwu, Gerald Obinna Ozota, Kenneth Chukwuebuka Egwu, Caleb Chijindu Ugorji, Joy Chekwube Onyesoro, Chimaobi Jude Nwiyi, Njoku Chukwuemeka Chidindu, Victor Chukwuebuka Akwu, Wisdom Enyinnaya Arugo, Chioma Chikezie Igu
Asian Journal of Research in Medical and Pharmaceutical Sciences · pp. 61–76 · Published 13 Jul 2024
10.9734/ajrimps/2024/v13i3262Abstract
Background: The prevalence of self-medication is increasing, not only among the general public but also among college and university students in the health field. Aim: This study aims to assess the knowledge, perception and practice of self-medication among pharmacy students in the university of Nigeria, Nsukka. Methods: This was a university-based cross-sectional study of 354 pharmacy students using a self-administered e-questionnaire. Data were summarized with descriptive statistics, chi square tests were used to assess association between the dependent and independent variables at a p<0.05. Results: The prevalence of self-medication was 82% in this population. Among the respondents, 294(83.1%) demonstrated good knowledge of self-medication. Reasons for respondent’s practice of self-medication include; easy access to online treatment guidelines (39.5%), knowledge of therapy for minor ailments (36.4%), and time considerations (45.2%). The commonest classes of drugs used for self-medication by our respondents were; Antimalarials (85.9%), Antibiotics (74.9%), Analgesics (76.0%) and Gastrointestinals (59.6%). No significant association was found between students’ sociodemographic characteristics and their knowledge and practice of self-medication. Conclusion: While the pharmacy students demonstrated a remarkable understanding of self-medication, they frequently engaged in this harmful practice, particularly using antibiotics, antimalarials, and analgesics. This study highlights the need for a greater emphasis on antimicrobial stewardship and the dangers of self-medication in the pharmacy curriculum.
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