KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE AND PRACTICE OF SELF-MEDICATION IN COLLEGE STUDENTS

Abstract

Self-medication is a common practice worldwide and the irrational use of the drugs is a major cause of concern. Self-medication is an issue with serious global implication. The current study aimed to determine the Knowledge, Attitude and Behavior of self-medication in college students. The Study site was Faculty of Engineering and Technology, (Engineering and Pharmacy department) Annamalai University, Annamalai Nagar, Tamil Nadu. The Study design was consisting of Cross sectional study. The total study population was 100 students (respondents), in the students 50 from Pharmacy (healthcare students) and other 50 from engineering students (non-healthcare students). Total study period of six months. All the data were collected by questionnaire, it was containing 30 questions both open and closed type questions. The questions were distributed to 50 healthcare and 50 non-healthcare students for getting information regarding self-medication. Since inappropriate self-medication has the potential to cause serious harm, not only to students themselves but also to those whom they suggest medication. Prevalence of self-medication was high due to minor illness. However, there is no significant association between prevalence and gender of respondents. Health care students are more awareness about self-medication. It helps to conduct counseling programs about the potential risk of self-medication, which can help to prevent the harms of un-prescribed medication.