Publication:

Self-medication practices among adults in urban field practice area of Rajarajeswari Medical College, Bengaluru

Background Self-medication is an important public health issue worldwide and is increasingly practiced in developing countries. Easy accessibility to medicines and lack of awareness regarding potential risks contribute to the widespread practice of self-medication. Inappropriate self-medication may lead to adverse drug reactions, antimicrobial resistance, delayed diagnosis and increased morbidity. The present study aimed to assess the prevalence, pattern and reasons for self-medication practices among adults in an urban field practice area of Bengaluru.

Methods A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 adults aged ≥18 years residing in the urban field practice area of Rajarajeswari Medical College and Hospital, Bengaluru. Participants were selected using convenient sampling. Data was collected using a pre-tested semi-structured questionnaire that included socio-demographic details, self-medication practices, reasons for self-medication and types of medications used. Data were analysed using SPSS version 23 and expressed in terms of frequencies and percentages.

Results Among the 100 participants, 81% reported practicing self-medication. Analgesics (81.5%) and antipyretics (61.7%) were the most commonly used medications. Fever (84%), cold (72.8%) and cough (64.2%) were the most frequent conditions for which self-medication was practiced. The major reasons reported for self-medication were mild illness (58%), time constraints (38.3%) and financial reasons (22.2%).

Conclusions The study highlights a high prevalence of self-medication practices among the urban population. Public health education regarding the rational use of medicines and strict regulation of drug dispensing practices are necessary to reduce inappropriate self-medication.