Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude and Practice Regarding Self-Medication Among MBBS and Pharm-D Students in Mirpur District, AJK

Abstract

Self-medication is a common practice among medical and pharmacy students, and it can compromise public trust in this profession. This cross-sectional study determined the self-medication practices among PHARM-D and MBBS students in Mirpur, AJK, through a self-designed questionnaire. The study was performed on a sample of 200 students (mean age =23.60 �1.30 years), 55% (110) were males and 45% (90) were females, out of the 100 were medical students and 100 were pharmacy students. The self-medication prevalence was as high as 75%. Knowledge of MBBS students regarding self-medication was better than PHARM-D students. The common source of advice was textbooks in 56% MBBS and 55% PHARM-D students. The major cause of self-medication was a previous experience, and the most common indications were pain and fever. Therefore, self-medication prevalence was high among students, and potentially harmful drugs sale should be restricted and monitored.