Self-Medication Among King Khalid University Students, Saudi Arabia

Self-medication Patterns and Knowledge Among Undergraduate Health Sciences Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Introduction

Self-medication (SM) is a practice wherein an individual consumes medicines without consulting a physician. This growing practice can lead to serious consequences, such as adverse drug reactions or treatment failure. Evidence suggests that SM is particularly common among young adults.

Objective

To assess the patterns and knowledge of SM among undergraduate health sciences students.

Methods

The cross-sectional study was conducted on 571 undergraduate health sciences students from January to March 2023. Data on SM practices and associated factors were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. A convenient sampling method was employed to recruit the students. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics with SPSS software.

Results

Self-medication was reported by 83.5% of participants. Knowledge of SM was satisfactory in 56% and unsatisfactory in 44%. Practice scores were unsatisfactory in 70% and satisfactory in 30%. Pharmacies (61.1%) and the Internet (53.5%) were the main information sources. Significant correlations were found between SM and chronic disease (χ2 = 10.846, p = .0009) and lack of medical insurance (χ2 = 84.175, p = .0001). Painkillers and antipyretics were the most commonly used SM drugs with 51.7% and 45.4%, respectively. Chronic diseases were reported by 8% of participants, of which 27.1%, 18.8%, 22.9%, and 31.2%, reported glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase deficiency, hypothyroidism, asthma, and anemia, respectively.

Conclusion

A significant proportion of the respondents practice SM. Although knowledge of SM was satisfactory, it is recommended to be aware risks of SM among students and enforce stricter supervision on the sale of over-the-counter drugs.

Clinical Predictors of Medication Compliance in Patients With Acute Herpetic Neuralgia

PURPOSE

Pain is one of the most common and harmful symptoms experienced by individuals with acute herpetic neuralgia (AHN). In this population, studies to determine the causes that affect patients taking medications compliance are rare. This study aimed to construct a predictive model for medication compliance of patients with AHN and to verify its performance.

DESIGN AND METHODS

In this prospective study of 398 patients with AHN who were discharged from a tertiary hospital with medications from July 2020 to October 2022, we used logistic regression analysis to explore the predictive factors of medication compliance of patients with AHN and to construct a nomogram. The area under the curve was used to evaluate the predictive effect of the model.

RESULTS

A predictive model of drug compliance of patients with AHN was constructed based on the following four factors: disease duration, pain severity before treatment, medication beliefs, and comorbidity of chronic diseases. The area under the curve of the model was 0.766 (95% confidence interval [0.713, 0.819]), with a maximum Youden's index of 0.431, sensitivity of 0.776, and specificity of 0.655. A linear calibration curve was found with a slope close to 1.

CONCLUSIONS

The prediction model constructed in this study had good predictive performance and provided a reference for early clinical screening of independent factors that affected the medication compliance of patients with AHN.

Prevalence and association of self-medication practices with personal and educational factors among university employees of Saudi Arabia: A cross-sectional study

Background and Objective

Self-medication (SM) is an emerging practice in both developing and developed countries. The commonality of this behavior is observed in patients with specific environments. The current study endeavored to determine the prevalence of SM practices and their correlated factors among academic employees in Saudi Arabia.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted at King Saud University Hospital, recruiting 383 participants. The participants received an online survey on self-medication practices. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and regression analysis.

Results

In the study, all the participants reported practicing SM at least one time. Of those who practiced SM, 66.7% (102) were unmarried with a significant difference (P = 0.036) while 68.0% (117) had no children (P = 0.003). Non-Government employees and unemployed participants had the highest percentage of experiencing SM (70.5%, n = 31, P = 0.036). Our results reveal that health perceiving, life satisfaction, and religious reasons were not significantly associated with practicing SM with P value = 0.704, 0.535, and 0.482, respectively. In the univariate model, gender, marital status, and the number of children revealed a significant correlation with SM (P value = 0.136, 0.058, and 0.040), respectively. SM was 1.4 times as likely if the participant was female and 1.3 if the participant was unmarried. The multivariate regression model shows that gender and marital status lost their significance while number of children (P = 0.023) was significantly correlated with SM. Our results also show the main reasons for self-medication were prior knowledge (25%), time-consuming consultations (21.6%), the belief that the condition did not require a doctor (22.4%), and previous experience with similar symptoms (23%) while major causative clinical conditions involved in SM is pain (37.5%) and fever (28.4%). It also shows that 33% experienced no side effects and 34% experienced shortness of breath as a side effect of practicing SM.

Conclusion

Our study spotted a significant frequency of SM behavior with high prevalence among University employees. Our study shows that gender, marital status, and number of children have a significant correlation with SM. The pharmacist's role is pivotal in promoting awareness for the safe utilization of over-the-counter drugs, and their proactive engagement is paramount. Educational health programs should be implemented to minimize SM malpractice.

Self-medication practices among university students at a public university in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia

Background

Self-medication is a concern at the global level. It comes with complications and different health issues. This study measures the prevalence, influential factors, and reasons behind self-medication.

Methods

A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Imam Mohammad Ibn Saud Islamic University. The prevalence and influential factors were measured between September and November 2023. Statistical analysis was performed using RStudio (R version 4.3.1). We used frequencies and percentages to present categorical variables. Using a convenient sampling technique. Factors associated with using self-medication and the differences between students of the medical college and their non-medical counterparts were assessed using Pearson's Chi-squared test or Fisher's exact test. Statistical significance was considered at P < 0.05.

Result

We initially received 410 responses on the online platform. However, we excluded seven responses from those who disagreed to participate and 12 from participants outside Riyadh. The majority of the participants were female (67.5%). Three hundred nineteen (319) participants indicated that they had ever used self-medications, accounting for a prevalence of 81.6%. Regarding the reasons for self-medication, the most frequently cited factors were 'previous experience' (66.5%) and 'time-saving' (50.2%). Additionally, the primary source of drug information utilized for self-medication practices was predominantly from 'relatives/friends' (62.4%) and 'pharmacologists' (48.0%). Medications were primarily used for headache (76.8%), fever (48.6%), and pain (47.3%). The most commonly used classes of drugs used for self-medication were painkillers (84.0%), vitamins (42.0%), and eye drops (32.9%).

Conclusion

The results showed that the prevalence of self-medication is high in the surveyed population. There has been an association between monthly income and the prevalence of self-medication. As pharmacists are the second most common source of drug information, it is essential to increase responsibility and avoid marketing and personal benefiting behavior as they are considered a reliable source of information in the population. Healthcare organizers can utilize our study to educate people about the adverse effects of self-medication.

Key modifiable risk factors for self-medication among university students: An observational study

Background

Self-medication among university students is becoming a health concern, especially during examinations and stress. This pattern of medication use among students could lead to adverse health consequences if it is not addressed and tackled. Thus, this study investigated the most associated factors with this practice among students.

Methods

An observational cross-sectional study was conducted among university students in Northern Borders Province, Saudi Arabia. A total of 220 students were selected and took part in the survey. Data was collected through a self-administered questionnaire. The survey was distributed among participants to answer five sections: demographic and socioeconomic characteristics, health status problems, satisfaction with academic performance, and self-medication questions. The content validity was tested using a pilot sample of 30 students. The descriptive, univariate, and multivariate analyses were conducted using the Statistical Package for Social Science program.

Results

In the present sample of university students, the response rate was 100%. Approximately one-third reported using medications without prescriptions, and 83% of them have used medications three times at most during the past 12 months. Headache was the most common reason for use (59%), followed by fever (20%). Adjusted multivariate analysis showed that students who were 21-24 years of age (OR = 3.79, 95% CI = 1.21-11.82), female (OR = 2.43, 95% CI = 1.03-5.72), and living alone in private housing (OR = 3.62, 95% CI = 1.32-9.90) were at high risk of self-medication as compared to their counterparts. However, students in the last years of college (fourth (OR = 0.14, 95% CI = 0.03-0.62), fifth (OR = 0.21, 95% CI = 0.05-0.95), sixth (OR = 0.05, 95% CI = 0.01-0.35)) were at lower risk as compared to their counterparts.

Conclusion

The study found that self-medication was common among university students, with higher rates among those who were 21-24 years old, female, and living alone in private housing, but lower rates among students in the later years of college. Educational programs and awareness campaigns should target students who are at higher risk of practicing self-medication to avoid misuse of over-the-counter medications.

Prevalence and predictors of self-medication to prevent or treat COVID-19 among undergraduate students in Southern Brazil

Self-medication (SM) is the practice of consuming medicines without a prescription. Despite being a potentially dangerous action, SM is practiced globally and has been highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic. The aim of this study was to evaluate SM for the prevention or treatment of COVID-19 and the factors associated with this practice among undergraduate students in Southern Brazil. A cross-sectional study was conducted between July and November 2020 using an electronic questionnaire to collect information about the practice of SM and the associated sociodemographic characteristics, health perception, and lifestyle. We collected 1,553 responses and identified a prevalence of 14.9% for SM. The risk factors for SM were earning between BRL 2,101 and BRL 5,250, studying at a public university, and studying a distance undergraduate course. The protective factors were age above 30 years, female sex, working or participating in internships, occasionally recommending their own medications to other people, and worsening health during the pandemic. The main drugs or products used were ivermectin, vitamins C and D, tea, azithromycin, zinc, and propolis. Our data could help in the development of health education measures to reduce SM among undergraduate students and guide the population regarding the risks of this practice.

Exogenous Melatonin Use in University Students: A Cross-Sectional Survey

To assess the prevalence of melatonin use and its perceived benefits among university students in different specialties in Saudi Arabia, a cross-sectional survey was conducted between March and June 2023. Data about demographics, time of melatonin use, perceived reasons for exogenous melatonin use, melatonin use in relation to exam periods, perceived safety, and adverse effects was gathered. Of 380 students, ~52% reported using exogenous melatonin for sleep disorders. Most participants reported using melatonin during and after exam periods. Additionally, several (n = 157; 75.4%) believed that its use was safe. The predominant use patterns were daily and as needed, and this study observed a higher rate of use compared with previous studies in Saudi Arabia. The most frequently reported adverse effect was headache (n = 36; 37.5%). A significant number of undergraduate male students in health specialties used melatonin. A high rate of melatonin use was noted during exam periods, which was attributed to sleep deprivation. Additionally, a significant number of students from private universities reported using exogenous melatonin. Melatonin use is common among university students. Future research should use a reliable psychometric measure to test its effect on university students' sleep quality and quantity.

The prevalence of self-medication and its associated factors among college students: Cross-sectional study from Saudi Arabia

Background

Self-medication with OTC or prescription drugs is widespread, may impair health, and leads to microbial resistance. Self-medication treats symptoms without a prescription. Self-medication is common among students across disciplines. Thus, this study evaluates medical and non-medical students' self-medication prevalence, knowledge, and variables.

Methods

352 people completed a verified 25-item online questionnaire from September 5 to November 17, 2021. Self-medication and demographic characteristics such as gender, professional college, and family income were examined using a chi-square test of independence.

Results

210 (59.6 %) participants were from the College of Medicine, and 142 (40.34 %) were from other professional health colleges. Health professional students self-medicated 55.9 %. This research found substantial connections between self-medication knowledge, gender, and family income. With a p-value of 0.0001, 32 % of women agreed that self-medication is safe, compared to 15.8 % of men. Female students were more likely than boys (61.9 % vs 38.1 %, p-value = 0.0291) to self-medicate as their initial therapy. Family income was also related to self-medication; 69.6 % of low-income pupils self-medicated to reduce doctor visits, p-value = 0.0477.

Conclusion

Students of all majors self-medicate. Medical students were more informed about generic drug safety and administration. There were substantial unfavorable sentiments regarding self-medication, highlighting the need for educational health activities to raise student understanding of its risks.

Assessment of health-related behaviors among medical students: A cross-sectional study

BACKGROUND AND AIM

Students sometimes participate in harmful activities that adversely influence their behaviors and well-being throughout college, which is one of the sensitive phases in an individual's life. Aim: To assess the health-related behaviors of university students.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study that includes systematic randomly selected 383 students from various colleges of Ras Al Khaimah Medical and Health Sciences University (RAKMHSU), Ras Al Khaimah Emirate, United Arab Emirates. A self-reported questionnaire included students' demographic traits and behaviors, including safety, medication intake, cigarette smoking, nutrition, physical activity, and health-related topics.

RESULTS

Most participants were females (69.7%), 13.3% were obese while 28.2% were overweight. The data revealed a significant difference between male and female students regarding medication intake without prescription, nutrition, physical activity, and health-related topics. The data also revealed that the majority of the students were attempting to lose weight, and the former male smokers had fewer trials to quit the use of all tobacco products than females.

CONCLUSION

More than a quarter of participants were overweight, and the majority of students did not adhere to the guidelines for safety and nutritious eating. This study recognized significant health promotion opportunities for university students that can be carried out to establish a healthier youth for society.

Attitude of Self-Medication Among Pharmacy Students in King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Background/purpose Self-medication is a public health concern because of the potential for medication overuse or abuse, as well as the physical, social, and psychological consequences. In Saudi Arabia, self-medication is common, especially among health science students. Inappropriate self-medication can cause several adverse effects, such as increasing the risk of medication abuse or delaying hospital appointments due to concealing specific symptoms with some medications. Therefore, our study aims to investigate and evaluate health science students' practices, awareness, and attitudes towards self-medication in the Faculty of Pharmacy at King Abdulaziz University, Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Materials and methods A cross-sectional study was conducted using an online self-administered survey to measure the attitude, awareness, and prevalence of self-medication among pharmacy students at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia. Students in the pharmacy program from the first to the sixth year were invited to participate in the study from April 2019 to June 2019. Raosoft was used to compute the sample size (n = 235) with a 5% margin of error and a 95% confidence range. Results The factors associated with significant effects were an academic year (p = 0.001), smoking (p = 0.018), average sleeping time (p = 0.032), having any headache (p = 0.022), and their opinion about self-medication (p < 0.0001). Conclusion According to the study, the self-medication of analgesics is common among pharmacy students, and the most used medication was paracetamol.

Prevalence of self-medication and associated factors among female students of health science colleges at Majmaah University: A cross-sectional study

Introduction

Globally, the prevalence of self-medication among young people has increased exponentially. Due to the basic knowledge and easy access to medicines, undergraduate students at health science colleges are likely to self-medicate. This research was undertaken to assess self-medication prevalence and its contributing factors among female undergraduate students in health science colleges at Majmaah University, Saudi Arabia.

Materials and methods

A descriptive, cross-sectional study involving 214 female students from the Majmaah University in Saudi Arabia's health science colleges-Medical: (82, 38.31%) and Applied Medical Science College (132, 61.68%)-was conducted. A self-administered questionnaire with sociodemographic information, drugs used, and reasons for self-medication was used for the survey. Non-probability sampling techniques were used to recruit participants.

Results

Of the 214 female participants, 173, 80.84 % (medical: 82, 38.31% and applied medical science: 132, 61.68%) confirmed that they were on self-medication. The majority of participants (42.1%) were between the ages of 20 and 21.5 years (mean ± SD: 20.81 ± 1.4). The main reasons for self-medication were quick relief from the illness (77.5%) followed by saving time (76.3%), minor illnesses (71.1%), self-confidence (56.7%), and laziness (56.7%). The use of leftover drugs at home was common among applied medical science students (39.9%). The main indication for self-medication included menstrual problems (82.7 %), headache (79.8%), fever (72.8%), pain (71.1%), and stress (35.3%). The most common drugs used included antipyretic and analgesics (84.4%), antispasmodics (78.9%), antibiotics (76.9%), antacids (68.2%), multivitamins, and dietary supplements (66.5%). On the contrary, the least used drugs were antidepressants, anxiolytics, and sedatives (3.5, 5.8, and 7.5 %, respectively). Family members were the main source of information for self-medication (67.1%), followed by self-acquired knowledge (64.7%), social media (55.5%), and least were friends (31.2%). For adverse effects of the medication, the majority of them consulted the physician (85%) followed by consulting the pharmacist (56.7%) and switched to other drugs or decreased drug dosage. Quick relief, saving time, and minor illness were the main reasons for self-medication among health science college students. It is recommended to conduct awareness programs, workshops, and seminars to educate on the benefits and adverse effects of self-medication.

The usage pattern of patients' drug information leaflet for oral non-prescription drugs among university students in the United Arab Emirates: cross-sectional study

Background

Very few extensive studies have measured the prevalence and usage pattern of drug information leaflet (DIL) for oral non-prescription drugs (ONPDs) or identified the associated risk factors for not reading DIL among university students in the UAE.

Objective

The current study aimed to estimate the prevalence of the usage pattern of DIL for ONPDs, and delineate the associated risk factors for not reading the DIL among university students.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey-based multistage sampling technique conducted among 2875 students at three major universities in UAE. The self-administered validated questionnaire was constructed and developed based on Andersen's behavioral model. Binomial logistic regression performed to ascertain the effects of 25 potential predictors on the likelihood that participants not reading (discarded) the DIL after reading them. The primary outcome measure was reading (discarding without reading) the DIL, and the associated behaviours.

Results

2875 university students were eligible to participate in the study, but only 2519 students agreed to participate, indicating an 88% of intent participation. However, only 2,355 (81.9%) students completed the questionnaire. 1348 respondents reported using NPD (response rate 46.9%) during the past three months before conducting the study, which comprised the sample analysis (1307 were excluded). More than three-quarters of them read the DIL (always or often) at the first use (1049 of 1348, 77.8%). Approximately a quarter of those who read the DIL reported that they discarded them after reading (24.1%). The survey has identified four risk factors for not reading the DIL: those who get the drug information from physicians or pharmacists had lower odds of discarding the DIL (odds ration [OR] = 0.491, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.273-0.884, p value< 0.05). Medical students had lower odds of discarding the DIL (OR = 0.598, 95% CI: 0.412-0.868, p value< 0.05). Those participants who believe that NPDs are as effective as prescription drugs had lower odds of discarding the DIL (OR = 0.342, 95% CI: 0.123-0.948, p value< 0.05). Participants who use more than one NPD to treat a single symptom a day have higher odds of discarding the DIL (OR = 1.625, 95% CI: 1.122 -2.355, p value< 0.05).

Conclusion

The prevalence of drug usage pattern in this population was 57.5% as 1348 subjects reported using NPD during the past 90 days before conducting the study. We have identified four risk factors for not reading the DIL, those who get the drug information from physicians or pharmacists, medical students, those respondents who believe that NPDs were as effective as prescription drugs, and respondents self-treating a single symptom with more than one NPD. It was evident from the findings that usage pattern of NPD for DIL varied among the students, with no specific pattern dominating.

A Comparative Piloting of Determinants of Self-Medication Among University Students in the MENA Region; UAE and Jordan as an Example

PURPOSE

Unsupervised self-medication (SM) is a global public health concern. University students are particularly vulnerable due to misperceptions of improved academic performance and thus are at risk of dependence, addiction, and drug overdose. Past studies have shown an alarming prevalence of SM among university students in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. However, there is a scarcity of reports from the region dissecting determinants of SM. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the prevalence and epidemiological correlates of SM among university students and its perceived impact on their academic performance.

METHODS

Two countries in the MENA region were surveyed in a cross-sectional design; UAE and Jordan. Through a stratified sampling technique, undergraduate students in both healthcare and non-healthcare majors of study were recruited to participate. A structured, self-administered questionnaire developed for the purpose of this study was distributed to consented participants via the university's official email. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used to analyze data. A p-value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.

RESULTS

A total of 362 students participated in the study (74% were females, 60% were from the UAE, and 59% were in healthcare majors). Significantly higher prevalence rates and adjusted odds of SM were found among females, students from Jordan, and those in healthcare majors, particularly for paracetamol (90.2% of females [p=0.001], 88.3% from Jordan [p=0.03], 92.5% in healthcare majors [p=0.001]) and antibacterial drugs (48.9% of females [p=0.01], 60.7% from Jordan [p=0.001], 53.3% in healthcare majors [p=0.001]). Majoring in healthcare fields was the most consistent determinant of such practice, while social influences of family and friends represented the chief source of recommendation. Only 21% of respondents assumed SM boosts their academic performance.

CONCLUSION

Our pilot study underlines the predominant determinants of SM among university students in the MENA region, namely female gender, students from Jordan, and those in healthcare majors. Informed data-driven awareness campaigns to mitigate such practice should be designed to focus on these susceptible populations.

Medical students' attitudes toward sleeping pill usage: A cross-sectional study

Medical students experience significant stress, which may interfere with their sleeping routines; consequently, they are at a higher risk of misusing sleeping pills. Therefore, this cross-sectional convenience sampling study aims to evaluate medical students' attitudes toward the usage of sleeping pills, as well as the prevalence of their misuse and the associated factors. A self-administered online questionnaire survey was completed by 338 medical students at the College of Medicine of the King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences. Of 338 participants, 84 (24.85%) reported using sleeping pills. The prevalence of sleeping pill misuse was 26.63% (n = 90). The most common misuse behavior of sleeping pills was self-prescription (n = 72, 21.30%). The factors associated with sleeping pill misuse were stimulants usage (n = 69, 92%, p = 0.0072), high grade point average (n = 63, 84%, p = 0.046), preclinical years (n = 52, 69.3%, p = 0.042), and longer average time required to fall asleep (n = 53, 70.7%, p = 0.008). The prevalence of sleeping pill misuse is high among medical students, particularly among those in preclinical years. Therefore, enhancing awareness regarding sleeping pill misuse is crucial. This can be achieved through campaigns, workshops, and providing information regarding the dangers of sleeping pill misuse in the curriculum.

A Cross-Sectional Study of the Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Self-Medication Among the General Population in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia

Introduction Self-medication (SM) is defined as consuming pharmaceutical drugs without the advice of a physician for either diagnosis or treatment. Reliance on self-medication has become a more common worldwide issue and now plays a major role in self-care. However, the practice is linked to many risks for patients and the whole community. This study assesses knowledge, attitudes, and practices associated with self-medication in the western region of Saudi Arabia. Methods This is an observational questionnaire-based cross-sectional study conducted over two months, between January and March 2022. The survey comprised 29 questions adapted from similar studies and was translated into Arabic to fit the study population. All residents of the three major cities, Makkah, Jeddah, and Taif, were included; the population under 18 years of age and health workers were excluded. We used OpenEpi version 3.0 (www.OpenEpi.com) for sample size calculation and Statistical Package for Social Sciences (IBM Corp, Armonk, USA) was used for data analysis. Results Most of the participants (67.7%) declared that they practiced self-medication: (28.6%) men and (39.1%) women. Self-medicating for different indications showed differences between men and women but without statistical significance. Major indications for self-medicating were headache (45.3%), cough, cold/flu (42.7%), and fever (34.0%). The primary reasons participants gave for choosing to self-medicate were easy availability of the medicines (41.4%) and that they were treating a minor illness (40.8%). Many types of medicines were used, most commonly analgesics (44.0%) and antipyretics (43.6%). Conclusion The practice of self-medication is high among the population in Makkah, Jeddah, and Taif. Educating the public on the consequences and adverse effects is necessary.

The profile of headaches and migraine amongst medical students and its association to stress level, disability and self-management practices

INTRODUCTION

Migraine is the most common headache affecting young people that impairs their functional ability. This study aimed to determine the frequency of migraines among Malaysian medical students, the association between migraines, stress level, and functional disability among these students, and describe their self-management practices.

METHODS

A cross-sectional study was conducted among medical students in a private medical school in Penang state. All medical students in the study site were screened for the presence of headache symptoms and the diagnosis of migraine using a self-administered questionnaire comprising International Headache Society (IHS) diagnostic criteria. Other domains that were assessed were perceived stress level and functional disability, which were measured using the Perceived Stress Scale and the Headache Impact Test-6 (HIT-6), respectively. The students' selfmanagement practices for their headaches were determined using a descriptive survey.

RESULTS

A total of 374 medical students participated in this study and 157 (42%) students reported experiencing headaches. More than half (n=97, 61.8%) of those with headaches fulfilled the IHS criteria for migraines. Migraines were significantly associated with functional disability compared with non-migraine headaches (p<0.001); however, no significant difference in stress levels were reported between the two groups. During migraine attacks, sleep (n=73, 60.33%) and self-medication (n=56, 69.14%) were the most common self-management practices. Only 11.46% of the 157 students with headaches consulted a doctor.

CONCLUSION

A high proportion of medical students suffered from headaches and more than half of them had migraines. Migraine headaches were associated with significant functional disability. Very few students sought medical consultation and most students chose to self-manage their headaches.

Self-Medication Practices, Prevalence, and Associated Factors among Syrian Adult Patients: A Cross-Sectional Study

Objectives

Self-medication (SM) means using drugs to treat self-diagnosed diseases or symptoms. Despite its important role in reducing the load on medical services, it may bear many risks. This study aims to determine the prevalence of SM and its determinants among adult inpatients of Damascus Hospital, Syria. Study design. Cross-sectional study.

Methods

453 adult inpatients were asked to complete a questionnaire through face-to-face interviews. Data were analysed using statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS). A chi-square test was used to detect correlation between variables.

Results

Out of 453 respondents, 67.3% practiced self-medication. Most used drugs were analgesics, antipyretics, and antibiotics. The main indications for SM included headache, cough/flu, and body aches. Pharmacists were the main source of knowledge about the drugs used in SM. The leading reason for practicing SM was the mildness of the complaint. Approximately half of the participants declared they read leaflets of drugs they used in SM. In this study, SM was significantly associated with monthly income, age, and living place.

Conclusions

The prevalence of SM in Damascus Hospital is high. Larger, nationwide studies are needed to identify the prevalence and determining factors of SM in Syria and to suggest the appropriate measures to control this phenomenon.

Influence of Medical Education on Medicine Use and Self-Medication Among Medical Students: A Cross-Sectional Study from Kabul

Objective

To compare the prevalence of self-medication among first- and fifth-year medical students at Kabul University of Medical Sciences.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted with the participation of all first- and fifth-year medical students by using a short, self-administered questionnaire. The prevalence of self-medication was estimated in the entire study population and also in those who had used medicines in the preceding one week.

Results

Of the total 302 students, the prevalence of medicine use was 38%. The prevalence of self-medication in all study population was 25.16%, whereas in those who had used medicines was 64.9%. Prescription-only medicines consisted of 59.2% of self-medication. The practice of self-medication and the use of prescription-only medicines were more prevalent among students in their fifth year and among males. While the prevalence of medicine use was the same among males and females, it differed between students in the fifth and first year. Paracetamol, anti-infectives, and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) were more frequently used medicines.

Conclusion

The use of medicines, self-medication and the use of prescription-only medicines were more prevalent among fifth-year students compared to those in the first-year. This apparently reflects the effect of medical education and training. More specific studies are required to address the issue in more detail and to facilitate interventions. The estimation of the prevalence of self-medication by using a short acceptable recall period, confined in those who had used medicines, seems to be more reasonable and accurate than by using a longer recall period in the entire study population. The prevalence of prescription-only medicines in self-medication could also be a useful indicator.

Prevalence, Predictors and Point of View Toward Self-Medication Among Residents of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Irrational Self-Medication (SM) practice leads to incorrect diagnosis and is a risk factor for disease exacerbation and serious health consequences. Hence Responsible SM is vital for better health outcomes. In the present community-based study we explored the SM practice during the last 3 months, frequency, outcome, medications used, reasons influencing SM, source of the drug, and information. Data were analyzed using SPSS; chi-square test was performed to indicate significance, Odds ratio, Pearson correlation, univariant and multivariant regression analysis were performed to find out factors and predictors of SM. A total of 611 residents completed the survey. SM was practiced by 52.9% of participants during the last 3 months, with a frequency of one to two times. Headache (64.8%), pain (35.4%), fever/flu (31.4%), cold & cough (21.9%) and dysmenorrhea (20.9%) were illnesses managed using pain killers (75.9%), multivitamins (25.5%), anti-pyretic (24.7%) and herbal medicines (18.5%). Minor illness (67.9%), earlier experience (33.9%) and shortness of time to attend healthcare facilities (18.8%) were the reasons for practicing SM. Distance to healthcare and routine physical activity have significantly influenced the SM practice. Residents stated that inappropriate SM would lead to negative outcomes, including drug side effects (70%), Interaction (34.2%), poor treatment outcome (32.6%) and return of symptoms (26.5%). Interestingly, two-thirds of participants (68.9%) have recommended SM in case of minor illnesses only, 85.3% of respondents have expressed their desire to learn more about appropriate SM, and 76.6% are willing to return their leftover or unused medications to drug take-back centers.

A cross-sectional survey: knowledge, attitudes, and practices of self-medication in medical and pharmacy students

Background

Self-Medication is common practice worldwide in both developed and developing countries. Self-Medication is referred as self consumption of medication without consulting a physician for either diagnosis or treatment. This study aimed to assess the knowledge, attitudes and practices toward self-medication among medical and pharmacy students.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted among medical and pharmacy students in Qassim university, Buraydah, Saudi Arabia, during the period 2020–2021. Multistage random sampling technique was used to recruit students. The data were collected through questionnaire.

Results

Three hundred and sixteen of 316 students were recruited. This study showed that the majority (94.6%) of students had good knowledge of self-medication. Additionally, the following characteristics were significantly associated with good knowledge: being female, and Pharmacy students. Overall mean score for the attitudes towards self-medication shows that 58.4% of the total sample had high agreements towards the questions of the attitudes toward self-medication. More than half (63.9%) of the students reported that they practice self- medication in the last 6 months. Pain killers was the most common medication used for self- medication by the majority of the students (88.29%).

Conclusions

In conclusion, students’ knowledge of self-medication appears to be good and significantly high among pharmacy students in comparison to medical students. As well self-medication was highly practiced among the students. Therefor, medical and pharmacy students should be viewed as important contributors to the public health care system, and future health professionals should be properly educated on good pharmacy practice and responsible self-medication.

Trial registration

Not applicable.

Prevalence, Perception, and Practice, and Attitudes Towards Self-Medication Among Undergraduate Medical Students of Najran University, Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background

Methods

Results

Conclusion

Premenstrual Syndrome and Its Impact on the Quality of Life of Female Medical Students at Bisha University, Saudi Arabia

Objective

The severity and chronicity of PMS can lead to the impairment of studies, and it can also affect relationships, activities, quality of life (QoL), and academic performance. This study aimed to determine PMS frequency and its associated factors in order to assess the quality of life (QoL) among female medical students at Bisha University, Saudi Arabia.

Methods

This study was cross-sectional and included 388 female medical students in the Faculty of Medical Applied Sciences and the Faculty of Medicine at Bisha University. The participants all filled in a self-administered questionnaire. The Premenstrual Syndrome Scale (PSS) was used based on the diagnostic and statistical criteria for PMS assessment. PMS was diagnosed after the presence of five or more severe premenstrual symptoms had been resolved following menstruation (adapted from American Psychiatric Association).

Data Analysis

The data obtained were analyzed using SPSS 25.0. A chi-square test was used to test the associations between the study variables. A logistic regression analysis technique was used to select the group of variables. Participants were asked to provide consent to participate in the study. IRB was obtained from the University of Bisha, College of Medicine.

Results

The participants were aged 19.5 ± 4.9 years, and the prevalence of PMS was 64.9%. Most of the female students were of extroverted personality types (35%). In addition, 13.4% were obese or overweight, and 19.5% of the 50% with PMS exercised regularly (p < 0.05). Menstruation significantly influenced the related quality of life subscales (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

PMS significantly influenced daily activities related to quality of life and homework. Moreover, almost half of the female students experienced the effects of menstruation in their learning environment. Therefore, among female students, the modification of risk factors should be considered a critical intervention point.

Knowledge, Attitude, Practices and Viewpoints of Undergraduate University Students towards Self-Medication: An Institution-Based Study in Riyadh

Rational and responsible self-medication (SM) is not only the key to better health outcomes, but also key to limiting adverse drug events. This institution-based cross-sectional study utilized seven- and four-item scales to assess the knowledge and attitude towards SM. Similarly, SM practices were measured using eight scale questions consisting of SM practice during the last six months, type of drug consumed, reason and frequency of SM, and so on. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS. Overall, 371 students completed the questionnaire. The students with a good level of knowledge and positive attitude towards SM were 60.64% and 66.8%, respectively. About 55.5% of students practiced SM during the last six months using antipyretics (37.7%), multivitamins (36.4%), sleeping aids (20.2%), and anti-histamines (18.6%). Headache (79.2%), fever (37.7%), pain (25.9%), and colds and coughs (25.3%) were the illnesses for which they sought SM. The students admitted that drug side effects (75%), drug resistance (33.7%), drug interaction (41.5%), and poor treatment outcome (28.3%) were the consequences of irrational SM practice. Students (87.6%) propose that extending SM awareness through the Ministry of Health (83%) and pharmaceutical companies (48%) as major platforms would improvise the rational practice. Since AlMaarefa University students will be future healthcare professionals, their perception must be considered and accordingly educated to practice rational SM.

Prevalence and determinants of self-medication with antibiotics among general population in Afghanistan

Objective: Self-medication with antibiotics (SMA) is a common cause of antibiotic resistance, a major public health problem. This research aimed to identify the prevalence of SMA and explore reasons for practicing SMA among people living in Kabul, Afghanistan.Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted from May to November 2017 in 12 community pharmacies operating across Kabul, Afghanistan. Multivariable logistic regression was conducted to identify the factors associated with the use of SMA.Results: Out of 385 participants, 282 (73.2%) practiced SMA during the last year. Overall, 241 (62.6%) were 'very concerned' about the use of SMA, and 156 (40.5%) highlighted it is bad to practice SMA. The top three antibiotics used for self-medication were penicillin (ATC class: J01C), metronidazole (ATC: P01AB01), and ceftriaxone (ATC: J01DD04). Economic problems, lack of time to visit doctors, and ease of use were cited as the main reasons for practicing SMA. Furthermore, female participants were less likely to practice SMA compared to male counterparts.Conclusion: While efforts should be directed to enforce strict drug regulations system and awareness programs, priority should be given to provide accessible, affordable, and quality health care services to increase citizen's compliance to appropriate drug prescriptions.

Assessing the Knowledge of Analgesic Drugs Utilization during Pregnancy among Women in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

BACKGROUND

Pain is a common compensation mechanism in pregnant women that they may face during gestation due to physiological changes. Paracetamol and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs are the most administered analgesic drugs worldwide. Therefore, safety and efficacy are important measures for the use of analgesics during pregnancy.

OBJECTIVE

Assess the knowledge of analgesic drug utilization among Saudi pregnant women.

METHOD

We conducted a self-administered survey with an electronic questionnaire via Google Drive among a sample of 406 Saudi women.

RESULTS

About half of the respondents took analgesics during the first trimester, and 52.5% of women have used analgesics at least once without any medical advice during their gestation. Most participants agreed that paracetamol is the safest and effective analgesic drug during pregnancy, yet 61.8% of women are not aware that analgesics could be detrimental to the fetus if inappropriately administered in the third trimester.

CONCLUSION

Participants have a good perception of the safest and most effective analgesic drug during pregnancy, but they have poor knowledge about analgesics' side effects.

The Use of Over-The-Counter (OTC) Medications by University Students During Examinations in Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study

Purpose

During examinations, many students use various over-the-counter (OTC) drugs to improve their concentration or treat exam-related medical symptoms. The purpose of this study was to scrutinize the use of OTC drugs during examinations in Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods

A cross-sectional study was designed, consisting of online, self-administered questionnaires comprising 27 items, including the awareness, knowledge, and attitude of students toward OTC drug use during examinations. A logistic regression model was fitted to determine factors that predict OTC drug use. The data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS).

Results

A total of 463 (92.6%) completed questionnaires were received from 500 recruited participants. Among participants, 58.5% were women, 47.9% were 22 years or older and completing their final year of study, and 44.1% of students preferred not to disclose their monthly income. The most common cause (35.6%) for OTC drug use during the examination period was headache, followed by pain (21%), fever (16.6%), and cough (8.2%). The most commonly used medication were painkillers, antipyretics, cough and cold medications, and vitamins (57.2%, 16.4%, 11%, and 7.3%, respectively). Male students showed a significant lack of awareness and knowledge regarding the safety and reasons for OTC drug use compared with their female counterparts and were less likely to read the medication leaflet before use (p < 0.001, odds ratio [OR]: 0.36, confidence interval [CI]: 0.23-0.57) and did not know which drugs require prescriptions (p < 0.001, OR: 0.41, CI: 0.27-0.63). Other significant factors that predicted OTC drug use included age, university level, and drug income.

Conclusion

The most common reported cause for OTC drug use during examinations among students was headache. Sex, age, university level, and monthly income were significant factors affecting OTC drug use during examinations.

Are symptoms of depression and anxiety in nursing students associated with their sociodemographic characteristics?

OBJECTIVE

to investigate symptoms of depression and anxiety and their association with the sociodemographic characteristics of undergraduate nursing students.

METHODS

a cross-sectional analytical study carried out with students from the Faculty of Nursing at Universidade Federal de Juiz de Fora from June to July 019. Data were collected through a sociodemographic questionnaire and the Beck Depression and Anxiety Inventories.

RESULTS

192 students participated, with a mean age of 21.44 (±3.56) years. 85.93% of participants were female. The mean depression score was 22.40 (±12.35), and anxiety was 17.56 (±11.98). There was a difference in the mean of the scales for sex and psychotropic drugs (p<0.05). Women presented moderate and severe classification for both scales. Severe symptoms prevailed among students from the 6th to the 10th semester (18.22%).

CONCLUSION

there was an association between depression and anxiety symptoms related to gender and psychotropic drugs.

Prevalence and Predictors of Self-Medication with Antifungal Drugs and Herbal Products Among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study from Egypt

Background and Purpose

Irrational use of drugs for self-medication (SM) is a worldwide public health problem which results in treatment failure, economic loss, and increased burden of morbidity and mortality. Thus, the purpose of this study was to explore SM with antifungal drugs and herbal products among university students in Egypt.

Methods

A cross-sectional sectional study was conducted over 7 months among 403 university students in Egypt. The students were invited to complete a self-administered questionnaire through an online Google form. Questionnaire items included socio-demographic characteristics of the students, practice of and attitude towards SM with antifungal drugs, and SM with herbal products.

Results

Prevalence of SM with antifungal drugs among students stood at 38.2%. The main reasons for SM with antifungal drugs were perceiving their health problem as being minimal, followed by having fears of a doctor’s visit. About 73% of the students thought that SM was not a safe practice. Older age (AOR = 1.5, 95% CI= 1.3–1.8), affiliation to a private university (AOR = 3.7, 95% CI= 2.2–6.4), and being a medical student (AOR =2.4, 95% CI= 1.3–4.5) were the significant predictors of SM with antifungal drugs. A high prevalence of SM with herbal products (70.7%) was reported, with most students having used some form of herbal weight loss preparation (64%). Being a Cairo resident (AOR= 2.4, 95% CI =1.5–3.8, P<0.05) and being a medical student (AOR= 2.1, 95% CI =1.3–3.4, P<0.05) were the significant predictors of SM with herbal products.

Conclusion

In the current study, SM was common among Egyptian university students. Providing counseling and public health education to university students with regards to SM is crucial. Implementing strict regulations and the full enforcement of excitant laws pertaining to the use of medication supplies is also needed. Herbal products should face the scrutiny of evidence-based medicine. Further studies are needed to evaluate the impact of SM among university students.

Self-medication practice with analgesics (NSAIDs and acetaminophen), and antibiotics among nursing undergraduates in University College Farasan Campus, Jazan University, KSA

OBJECTIVE

Self-medication practices are widely practiced globally as major form of self-care for pain management. Unfortunately, with COVID-19 pandemic, prescription only drugs are now increasingly being self-prescribed. Present study was therefore, conducted to generate data on self-medication practice with analgesics using non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and acetaminophen, and the antibiotics among nursing students of University College Farasan Campus.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A cross-sectional descriptive study was conducted among 177 study participants (20±3 years) between December 2019 to February 2020 using questionnaire. Data analyses were done using origin software (6.1, Illinois, USA). Significance was considered at P<0.05. Study was conducted in Department of Nursing, University College Farasan Province, a premier educational institute of Farasan Island affiliated to Jazan university, KSA.

RESULTS

Self-medication practices were high among nursing students (n=154 participants, 87%). Acetaminophen was highest used drug for analgesic purposes without prescriptions (n=101 participants, 57%). Among NSAIDs, Ibuprofen was most preferred for various analgesic purposes (n=35 participants, 20%) followed by diclofenac (n=9 participants, 5%) and meloxicam (n=5 participants, 3%). Azithromycine was the only antibiotic used by participants (n=4 participant, 2%). Most common causes of self-medication were headache (45%), menstrual pain (23%) and fever (14%). Main reason for self-medications was lack of time to consult doctor (68%). Furthermore, self-medication was significantly associated with study year (P<0.003).

CONCLUSION

Results give rise to concern for general well-being of future nursing workforce. There is need to implement educational actions and awareness programmes to limit self-medication practices among educated youth of this beautiful Island.

Assessment of Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice of Community Pharmacists Regarding Weight Reduction Agents and Supplements in Aseer Region, Saudi Arabia

Purpose

This study investigated the knowledge, attitudes, and practice of community pharmacists regarding weight reduction products in Aseer region, Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods

A questionnaire-based study of community pharmacists in Aseer region, Saudi Arabia, was conducted between March and May 2019.

Results

The most commonly prescribed weight reduction agent was green tea followed by oatmeal products and ginseng. The results revealed that almost 85% of the respondents did not know which weight reduction agents are approved as over-the-counter products by the US Food and Drug Administration. Community pharmacists had positive attitudes toward the safety and efficacy of weight reduction products, but 64.91% indicated that they would limit weight reduction agents to obese patients who could not reduce their weight through exercise and diet. More than 80% of the participants agreed that it is very important to counsel patients regarding weight reduction products, and more than 80% also agreed that pharmacists should regularly discuss weight reduction products with other healthcare professionals.

Conclusion

Community pharmacists showed positive attitudes and efficient practice towards prescribing weight reducing products. However, there was a deficit regarding the knowledge about which products approved by FDA to manage overweight. That requires to consolidate the role of community pharmacists in weight management in Saudi Arabia with more continuous education and regulation.