Artificial intelligence and internet influence on drug utilization: Exploring self-medication trends in South Indian pharmacy students

Abstract

BackgroundSelf-medication refers to usage of drugs by population to cure self-diagnosed medical illnesses or symptoms without seeking medical advice. AI has become the prevailing technology in recent times, experiencing significant growth. Following the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a surge in AI adoption, driven by concerns about visiting hospitals. Despite awareness of its potential drawbacks, relying on AI and online resources for medical and therapeutic purposes has become widespread. ObjectivesThis study determines the use of AI and Internet in self-medication as well as perceives the knowledge, attitudes, and self-medication practices among south Indian Pharmacy students. MethodsThis is a cross-sectional study that included pharmacy students to evaluate the trends and practices of self-medication. A self-designed questionnaire was adopted that contained four sections including Consent, demographic details, AI in medications, Knowledge-Attitude-Practice sections. The data was collected both manually and via e-links. ResultsThe study included a total of 527 participants, among which 278 (52.8%) were females. 472 (89.56%) used internet and AI for diagnosing their condition, whereas 396 (75.14%) used to self-medicate. 315 (59.8%) had good knowledge and 521 (98.9%) exhibited positive attitude towards self-medication. The practice of self-medication was high – 217 (41.2%) practiced self-medication within one month, 149 (28.3%) within two or three months, 101 (19.2%) within 6 months and 60 (11.4%) practiced a year ago. ConclusionThe study participants used more internet and AI for self-diagnosing as well as self-medicating than consulting the medical professionals. Majority had good knowledge and positive attitude with high prevalence of self-medication practices. Self-medication awareness and public health education has to be carried out in order to avoid unexpected reactions by self-medications.