Self‑Medication and its Associated Factors among University Students: A Cross‑Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Self‑medication is a global concern among professionals and non‑professionals, with a rapid increase in prevalence. The study aims to assess the prevalence of self‑medication and its associated factors among university students. Materials and Methods: A cross‑sectional, descriptive study was conducted in three universities, and a total of 817 college students participated in this study. Results: About 75.40% of the participants reported using medications without a professional prescription. The category of analgesics was the most commonly used in self‑medication (82.80%), while the most common symptom was a headache (81.50%). Almost 74.10% percent of participants who have practiced self‑medication stated that the reason was the “lack of time to consult a physician.” Most participants who have used self‑medication (90.30%) stated that the source of knowledge was “previous prescription.” Conclusions: Health education programs concerning self‑mediation should be held in university settings to improve attitudes and practices toward self‑mediation.