Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Self Medication among Medical Students of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran

Abstract

Introduction: Self-medication is a double-edged sword the proper application of which is appreciated by the World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines since it can reduce the unnecessary pressure on the health care system. However, self-medication can lead to severe consequences if utilized inappropriately. Furthermore, self-medication practice is an important social health issue in medical students as educated people and would-be physicians. This study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practice of self-medication in medical students of Mashhad University of Medical Sciences, Mashhad, Iran. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional questionnaire-based study included 296 medical students at distinct levels of education. The data were analyzed in SPSS software (version 26). Results: Based on the findings, more than 80% of the students were aware of the complications, drug interactions, and importance of accurate use; however, only 9.1% and 27% of the participants were aware of the side-effects of herbal medicine and dietary supplements, respectively. Out of the total 296 participants, 83.5% of the cases declared that they did care about the side effects of medicines, and 81.3% of the students believed that a medical degree was essential for medicine prescription. In a confrontation with minor ailments, 21.9% of the cases practiced self-medication, and the majority (57.4%) of the used medicines were painkillers. The main reasons for self-medication was the underestimation of the disease (57.8%). Moreover, positive attitudes toward the safety of self-medication (P=0.04) and knowledge about medicine (p <0.001) were the major reasons for the self-medication practice in senior students, compared to juniors. However, no significant difference was found between seniors and juniors in terms of self-medication practice (P=0.85). Conclusion: Regarding the adverse effects of self-medication, drug dependency, microbial resistance, and high prevalence of self-medication among participants, it is suggested to provide educational programs on the adverse effects of self-medication. In addition, appropriate measures should be taken to control and prevent an easy access to medications.