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Girmaw F, Sendekie AK, Mesfin B, Kassaw AT. Self-medication practices among pregnant women in Ethiopia. J Pharm Policy Pract 2023; 16:74. [PMID: 37337251 PMCID: PMC10278325 DOI: 10.1186/s40545-023-00584-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-medication is a worldwide issue that requires special attention due to the potentially harmful effects it can have not only on pregnant women but also on the fetus. OBJECTIVES This study assessed the magnitude of self-medication practice and associated factors among pregnant women following antenatal care (ANC) in primary healthcare settings in the North Wollo Zone of Ethiopia. METHODS An institutional-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 395 pregnant mothers who attended ANC follow-up in selected health centers in the North Wollo Zone of Ethiopia from April 20 to May 20, 2021. A multi-stage sampling method was employed to enroll participants. A face-to-face structured interview was conducted to collect the data. A logistic regression analysis was used to determine the factors associated with self-medication practice. A p value < 0.05 at the 95% confidence level was considered statistically significant. RESULTS Out of a total of 444 participants approached, 395 (89%) participated in the study. Of these, 44.6% reported practicing self-medication during the current pregnancy. Age < 35 (AOR = 2.18, 95% CI 1.02-9.15; p = 0.032), rural residence (AOR = 3.01, 95% CI 1.43-10.19; p = 0.017), and previous medication use (AOR = 5.02, 95% CI 1.24-12.93; p = 0.015) were found to have a significant association with self-medication practice. CONCLUSION Self-medication was highly prevalent among pregnant women in the study setting and result indicates need for critical action. Younger rural women with a history of self-medication use should be provided counselling to find a prescription medication, and measures are needed to minimize self-medication related harm in pregnant women.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fentaw Girmaw
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Science, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Ashenafi Kibret Sendekie
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Medicines and Health Sciences, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia.
| | - Betelhem Mesfin
- Department of Adult Health Nursing, School of Nursing, College of Health Science, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
| | - Abebe Tarekegn Kassaw
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Health Science, Woldia University, Woldia, Ethiopia
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Baracaldo-Santamaría D, Trujillo-Moreno MJ, Pérez-Acosta AM, Feliciano-Alfonso JE, Calderon-Ospina CA, Soler F. Definition of self-medication: a scoping review. Ther Adv Drug Saf 2022; 13:20420986221127501. [PMID: 36211626 PMCID: PMC9537481 DOI: 10.1177/20420986221127501] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 09/04/2022] [Indexed: 11/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Self-medication (SM) is a global and growing phenomenon. It represents a public
health problem due to antibiotic resistance, risk of adverse drug reactions,
drug–drug interactions, disease masking, and increased morbidity. There is not a
consensus on the definition of SM. The definitions found in different studies
make it difficult to address this problem from a theoretical perspective and
therefore find an adequate solution to this public health problem. The aim of
this article is to search the medical literature to characterize the current
understanding of SM in the medical community. We conducted a scoping review of
definitions of SM by searching on PubMed – Medline, Embase, and LILACS using the
following combination of keywords: ‘self-prescription’ or ‘self prescription’,
‘self-medication’ or ‘self medication’, or ‘automedication’ and ‘definition’ or
‘explanation’. The search was limited to articles containing the definition of
SM, with no limit on language or year. Duplicate studies and those that did not
mention the definition of SM were excluded from the final review. A total of 65
studies were included in the final selection. We found a vast heterogeneity in
the definition of SM. Most articles based their definition of SM on the process
of obtaining the drug, the nonparticipation of a specific health professional,
the source of the medication, and the reason for SM. Other interesting concepts
such as self-care, nonadherence to a prescription, reuse of stored drugs, and
sharing and lending medicines were also considered forms of SM by other authors,
however. This study highlights the need to reach a consensus regarding the
definition of SM to adequately propose strategies to address this global health
problem. This study shows the diverse concepts that need to be included in a
future definition of SM.
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Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Baracaldo-Santamaría
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Biomedical
Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario,
Bogota, Colombia
| | - Maria José Trujillo-Moreno
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Biomedical
Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario,
Bogota, Colombia
| | - Andrés M. Pérez-Acosta
- Observatory of Self-Medication Behavior, School
of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá,
Colombia
| | | | - Carlos-Alberto Calderon-Ospina
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Biomedical
Sciences, School of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario,
Bogota, Colombia,Observatory of Self-Medication Behavior, School
of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá,
Colombia,Center for Research in Genetics and Genomics -
CIGGUR, GENIUROS Research Group, School of Medicine and Health Sciences,
Universidad del Rosario, Bogotá, Colombia
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Sachdev C, Anjankar A, Agrawal J. Self-Medication With Antibiotics: An Element Increasing Resistance. Cureus 2022; 14:e30844. [PMID: 36451647 PMCID: PMC9704507 DOI: 10.7759/cureus.30844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/29/2022] [Indexed: 04/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Self-medication refers to the consumption of drugs such as antibiotics by individuals based on their own experience and knowledge, without consulting a doctor either for diagnosis or prescription. The inappropriate use of antibiotics is the primary source of antibiotic resistance (AR) development in microorganisms. As a result, some specific types of microorganisms that are naturally resistant to antibiotics have become considerably more common. Self-medication poses a danger to the advantages of antibiotics since it results in financial burdens on low and middle-income countries (LMICs), management failures, the evolution of antibiotic-resistant bacterial serotypes, and a higher risk of contamination of the general population by such tensions. Antibiotic misuse puts patients at risk for adverse drug reactions, false symptom relief, and the rise of drug-resistant microorganisms. It carries many health risks, chiefly in LMICs. These risks are linked to various factors, including a shortage of medical experts, low-level healthcare facilities, unregulated medication delivery, and negative public perceptions of doctors. The primary issue with self-medication is that majority of the population is uninformed of the harmful consequences of antibiotic resistance and how they might donate to it by self-diagnosing and self-treating with antibiotics. Antibiotic self-medication remains a common practice in society, and educational attainment significantly affects the frequency of this behavior. The article aims to educate the people by showing the development and plausible future to decrease antibiotic misuse. It also tells about the various challenges and prevention of this preceding problem.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chetna Sachdev
- Community Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, IND
| | - Ashish Anjankar
- Biochemistry, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, IND
| | - Jayesh Agrawal
- Community Medicine, Jawaharlal Nehru Medical College, Datta Meghe Institute of Medical Sciences, Wardha, IND
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Alshammari F, Alobaida A, Alshammari A, Alharbi A, Alrashidi A, Almansour A, Alremal A, Khan KU. University Students' Self-Medication Practices and Pharmacists' Role: A Cross-Sectional Survey in Hail, Saudi Arabia. Front Public Health 2021; 9:779107. [PMID: 34976931 PMCID: PMC8718403 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2021.779107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/24/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Self-medication is an important issue for health authorities around the world. It is also a common practice among university students. Objective: This study aimed to assess the prevalence of and reasons for self-medication among university students. Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional community based survey design was adopted for the current study. All the students enrolled in Hail University, Saudi Arabia were selected to include in the study. Data was collected from February to April 2020 using a validated questionnaire and were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics, Version 22.0. Using convenient sampling technique, the total sample size calculated was 370 participants. A descriptive analysis was performed. Chi-square test and binary logistic regression was used for analyzing the data where statistical significance was set at p ≤ 0.05. Results: A total of 373 participants completed the questionnaire. The response rate was 84%. The overall prevalence of self-medication among the students was 98.2%. Of the 373 participants, 40.8% were men, and 59.2% were women. Furthermore, 56% were in fields other than health sciences, 23.1% were in preparatory foundation courses, and 20.9% were from the health and medical sciences. The most frequent medical condition that led to self-medication was headaches (92.85%), followed by coughs (37.5%), colic (31.9%) and influenza (30.3%). On univariate analysis, it is revealed that for both abdominal colic [OR 0.54 (0.34-0.86), p = 0.01] and constipation [OR 0.57 (0.32-1.02), p 0.05], female gender was observed significantly with low prevalence than male. However, for influenza, the self-medication prevalence [OR 1.86 (1.19-2.91), p = 0.006] observed was significantly higher in female participants than male. A significant association (p = 0.011) between the self-medication factors and gender was shown in the current study results. Conclusion: An alarming prevalence of self-medication among the students was recorded. Health care providers can increase awareness of the issue by educating individuals about the harmful effects of irresponsible self-medication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Farhan Alshammari
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | - Ahmed Alobaida
- Department of Pharmaceutics, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | - Abdulhadi Alshammari
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | - Atheer Alharbi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | - Adel Alrashidi
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | - Asma Almansour
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | - Amal Alremal
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
| | - Kashif Ullah Khan
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, University of Hail, Hail, Saudi Arabia
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Mohammed SA, Tsega G, Hailu AD. Self-Medication Practice and Associated Factors Among Health Care Professionals at Debre Markos Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia. DRUG HEALTHCARE AND PATIENT SAFETY 2021; 13:19-28. [PMID: 33603491 PMCID: PMC7886097 DOI: 10.2147/dhps.s290662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/09/2020] [Accepted: 02/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
Introduction Despite self-medication empowers patients in making decisions about the management of minor illnesses independently, the prevalence among health care professionals has sharply increased throughout the world. Self-medication has negative consequences on both the health care professionals themselves and health care delivery. Hence, this study assessed self-medication practices and associated factors among health care professionals at Debre Markos Comprehensive Specialized Hospital. Methods A facility-based cross-sectional study was conducted using a structured questionnaire among health care professionals working at Debre Markos Comprehensive Specialized Hospital from October 10 to 25, 2020. A systematic random sampling technique was employed to select 227 study participants. Multivariate logistic regression was computed using the statistical package for social sciences version 20 and variables with a p-value less than 0.05 were taken as statistically significant. Results were presented in the form of tables and graphs. Results Among 227 health professional, 164 (72.2%; 95% CI: 66.0%, 77.7%) practiced self-medication. Of these, 107 (65.2%; 95% CI: 57.3%, 71.8%) stated the negative consequence of self-medication. Drug resistance 96 (89.7%) and adverse drug reaction 95 (88.8%) were reported as a consequence. The predictor of self-medication among health professionals was the pharmacy profession (AOR: 11.88, 95% CI (1.38–102.38)). The most common disease conditions for practicing self-medication were headache 153 (93.3%), respiratory tract infection 116 (70.7%) and gastrointestinal symptoms 103 (62.8%). Pain killers 154 (93.9%), antibiotics 122 (74.4%), and antacid 101 (61.6%) were frequently used for self-medication and health professionals got the medicines from drug retail shops 130 (79.3%) and workplace 104 (63.4%). Mild disease condition 128 (78%), time-saving 124 (75.6%), and accessibility 97 (59.1%) were the reasons for self-medication. Conclusion More than two-thirds of health professionals practiced self-medication and reported the negative consequence of self-medication. The predictor of self-medication was the pharmacy profession. The provision of appropriate health education was recommended for promoting rational medication use.
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Affiliation(s)
- Solomon Ahmed Mohammed
- Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Science, Wollo University, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Gashaw Tsega
- Department of Pharmacy, Finote Selam General Hospital, Finote Selam, Ethiopia
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Sadio AJ, Gbeasor-Komlanvi FA, Konu RY, Bakoubayi AW, Tchankoni MK, Bitty-Anderson AM, Gomez IM, Denadou CP, Anani J, Kouanfack HR, Kpeto IK, Salou M, Ekouevi DK. Assessment of self-medication practices in the context of the COVID-19 outbreak in Togo. BMC Public Health 2021; 21:58. [PMID: 33407321 PMCID: PMC7787400 DOI: 10.1186/s12889-020-10145-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND To date, there is no effective treatment for COVID-19, which is a pandemic disease, caused by a novel coronavirus called SARS-CoV-2. In Togo, where four in five people practice self-medication, the absence of a cure for COVID-19 and the constant progression of the disease requires an assessment of self-medication patterns in the context of the pandemic. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of self-medication to prevent COVID-19 and its associated factors in Lomé, Togo. METHODS A cross-sectional study was conducted in Lomé, the capital city of Togo, from April 23rd to May 8th, 2020, with a sample of participants from five sectors: the healthcare, air transport, police, road transport and informal sectors. The participants were invited to provide information about their self-medication practices to prevent COVID-19 in the 2 weeks preceding the survey. RESULTS A total of 955 participants (71.6% men) with a median age of 36 (IQR 32-43) were included. Approximately 22.1% were in the air transport sector, 20.5% were in the police sector, and 38.7% were in the health sector. The overall prevalence of self-medication to prevent COVID-19 was 34.2% (95% CI: 31.2-37.3%). The most commonly used products were vitamin C (27.6%) and traditional medicine (10.2%). Only 2.0% of participants reported using chloroquine/hydroxychloroquine. Female sex (aOR=1.90; p< 0.001), work in the health sector (aOR=1.89; p= 0.001), secondary education level (aOR= 2.28; p= 0.043) and university education level (aOR= 5.11; p< 0.001) were associated with self-medication. CONCLUSION One-third of the individuals in high-risk populations in Lomé practiced self-medication. Intensifying awareness campaigns is crucial to fight misinformation about alleged COVID-19 prevention products on social media.
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Affiliation(s)
- Arnold J Sadio
- Département de Santé Publique, Université de Lomé, Faculté des Sciences de la Santé, Lomé, Togo
- Centre Africain de Recherche en Epidémiologie et en Santé Publique (CARESP), Lomé, Togo
| | - Fifonsi A Gbeasor-Komlanvi
- Département de Santé Publique, Université de Lomé, Faculté des Sciences de la Santé, Lomé, Togo
- Centre Africain de Recherche en Epidémiologie et en Santé Publique (CARESP), Lomé, Togo
| | - Rodion Y Konu
- Département de Santé Publique, Université de Lomé, Faculté des Sciences de la Santé, Lomé, Togo
- Centre Africain de Recherche en Epidémiologie et en Santé Publique (CARESP), Lomé, Togo
| | - Akila W Bakoubayi
- Centre Africain de Recherche en Epidémiologie et en Santé Publique (CARESP), Lomé, Togo
| | - Martin K Tchankoni
- Centre Africain de Recherche en Epidémiologie et en Santé Publique (CARESP), Lomé, Togo
| | | | - Iris M Gomez
- Centre Africain de Recherche en Epidémiologie et en Santé Publique (CARESP), Lomé, Togo
| | - Claudia P Denadou
- Centre Africain de Recherche en Epidémiologie et en Santé Publique (CARESP), Lomé, Togo
| | - Joël Anani
- Centre Africain de Recherche en Epidémiologie et en Santé Publique (CARESP), Lomé, Togo
| | - Harold R Kouanfack
- Centre Africain de Recherche en Epidémiologie et en Santé Publique (CARESP), Lomé, Togo
| | - Innocent K Kpeto
- Conseil Scientifique pour la riposte à la pandémie Covid-19, Lomé, Togo
| | - Mounerou Salou
- Conseil Scientifique pour la riposte à la pandémie Covid-19, Lomé, Togo
- Laboratoire de Biologie Moléculaire et d'Immunologie, Département des Sciences Fondamentales, Université de Lomé, Lomé, Togo
| | - Didier K Ekouevi
- Département de Santé Publique, Université de Lomé, Faculté des Sciences de la Santé, Lomé, Togo.
- Centre Africain de Recherche en Epidémiologie et en Santé Publique (CARESP), Lomé, Togo.
- Conseil Scientifique pour la riposte à la pandémie Covid-19, Lomé, Togo.
- Université de Bordeaux, INSERM U1219 Bordeaux Population Health Research, ISPED, Bordeaux, France.
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Kawuma R, Chimukuche RS, Francis SC, Seeley J, Weiss HA. Knowledge, use (misuse) and perceptions of over-the-counter analgesics in sub-Saharan Africa: a scoping review. Glob Health Action 2021; 14:1955476. [PMID: 34420494 PMCID: PMC8386732 DOI: 10.1080/16549716.2021.1955476] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/25/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Over-the-counter (OTC) analgesics are safe for pain-management when used as recommended. Misuse can increase the risk of hypertension and gastrointestinal problems. OBJECTIVE To conduct a scoping review of the uses and misuses of OTC analgesics in sub-Saharan Africa, to inform strategies for correct use. METHOD Following guidelines for conducting a scoping review, we systematically searched Pubmed, ResearchGate and Google Scholar databases for published articles on OTC analgesic drug use in sub-Saharan Africa, without restrictions on publication year or language. Search terms were 'analgesics', 'non-prescription drugs', 'use or dependence or patterns or misuse or abuse' and 'sub-Saharan Africa'. Articles focusing on prescription drugs were excluded. RESULTS Of 1381 articles identified, 35 papers from 13 countries were eligible for inclusion. Most were quantitative cross-sectional studies, two were mixed-methods studies, and one used qualitative methods only. About half (n = 17) the studies recorded prevalence of OTC drug use above 70%, including non-analgesics. Headache and fever were the most common ailments for which OTC drugs were taken. Primary sources of OTC drugs were pharmacy and drug shops, and family, friends and relatives as well as leftover drugs from previous treatment. The main reasons for OTC drug use were challenges in health service access, perception of illness as minor, and knowledge gained from treating a previous illness. Information regarding self-medication came from family, friends and neighbours, pharmacies and reading leaflets either distributed in the community or at institutions of learning. OTC drug use tended to be more commonly reported among females, those with an education lower than secondary level, and participants aged ≥50 years. CONCLUSION Self-medicating with OTC drugs including analgesics is prevalent in sub-Saharan Africa. However, literature on reasons for this, and misuse, is limited. Research is needed to educate providers and the public on safe use of OTC drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rachel Kawuma
- Social Aspects of Health Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda
| | - Rujeko Samanthia Chimukuche
- Social Science and Research Ethics Department, Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
| | - Suzanna C Francis
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Janet Seeley
- Social Aspects of Health Programme, MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit, Entebbe, Uganda.,Social Science and Research Ethics Department, Africa Health Research Institute, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa.,Department of Global Health and Development, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
| | - Helen A Weiss
- MRC International Statistics and Epidemiology Group, Department of Infectious Disease Epidemiology, London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine, London, UK
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Tobin EA, Erhazele J, Okonofua M, Nnadi C, Nmema EE, Odigie G. Self-medication among health care workers in a tertiary hospital in Southern Nigeria: knowledge, attitude, and practices. MEDICAL JOURNAL OF INDONESIA 2020. [DOI: 10.13181/mji.oa.204223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/22/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Self-medication is linked to the inappropriate and irrational use of medicines. This study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitude, and practice of self-medication among health care workers (HCWs) in a tertiary hospital in Southern Nigeria.
METHODS In a cross-sectional study carried out between June 2018 and December 2018 at Irrua Specialist Teaching Hospital, Edo State, 206 consenting HCWs were interviewed using validated questionnaires on their knowledge (assessed as good, fair, and poor), attitude (positive and negative), and practice of self-medication. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 21 (IBM Corp., USA). Bivariate analysis was carried out using chi-square. Statistical significance was set as p<0.05.
RESULTS Prevalence of self-medication in the last 4 months was 89.3%, and significantly decreased with increasing age (p = 0.04) and holding a positive attitude toward self-medication (p<0.01). Knowledge of self-medication was fair for the majority 111 (53.9%). Most of the medications were used for headache (92.4%), fever (81.5%), diarrhea (75.0%), and respiratory infections (61.4%). Common drugs self-medicated included antimalarials (91.3%), analgesics (81.0%), and antibiotics (71.2%). 39 subjects (21.2%) self-medicated with tranquilizers. Familiarity with the treatment options was the main reason for self-medication for 60.9% of the respondents.
CONCLUSIONS Self-medication was prevalent among HCWs in the study area. Concerted efforts are needed to educate HCWs on responsible self-medication. On a broader scale, restrictions should be enforced on the sale of prescription drugs, such as antibiotics and sleeping pills, and drug dispensers should provide effective counseling before dispensing.
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Adane F, Seyoum G, Alamneh YM. Non-prescribed drug use and predictors among pregnant women in Ethiopia: systematic review and meta-analysis. J Matern Fetal Neonatal Med 2020; 35:4273-4284. [PMID: 33233996 DOI: 10.1080/14767058.2020.1849105] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of non-prescribed drugs are common to pregnant women. It may lead to undesirable effects, such as birth defects. Study results on the occurrence and predictor of non-prescribed drug use among pregnant women throughout Ethiopia are highly variable and inconsistent. Therefore, the objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis was to estimate the pooled prevalence of non-prescribed drug use and predictors among pregnant women in Ethiopia. METHODS We systematically searched studies from the international databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science, Science Direct, Google Scholar, the Cochrane Library and others. The meta-analysis was conducted using Stata15. I2 test and Egger's test were used to assess the heterogeneity and publication bias respectively. The random-effect model was used to estimate the pooled prevalence of non-prescribed drug use at a 95% CI. RESULTS Eleven studies with a total of 4492 pregnant women fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included. The pooled national level non-prescribed drug use among pregnant women was 30.38% (95% CI: 20.28, 40.48). The highest use of non-prescribed drug among pregnant women was observed in Amhara region 36.71%, while the lowest was in Tigray region 9.67%, respectively. The most frequently consumed non prescribed drugs by pregnant mothers were paracetamol 34.38%, amoxicillin 14.73%, aspirin 4.25%, metronidazole 2.81% and ciprofloxacin 2.80%. Maternal previous history of self-medication, maternal illness during pregnancy and maternal marital status were significantly associated with women non-prescribed drug use during pregnancy. CONCLUSIONS The overall prevalence of non- prescribed drug use among pregnant women in Ethiopia is relatively high, and varies across different regions. The most frequently consumed non- prescribed drug by pregnant mothers was paracetamol. Maternal; previous history of self-medication, illness during pregnancy and marital status were significantly associated with pregnant women non-prescribed drug use. Awareness of the possible side effects of taking non-prescribed drugs for all pregnant women is very relevant in the media and in the maternity ward. In particular, it is important to make clear to mothers who have a history of self-medication, to those who have a history of illness during pregnancy and to those who are pregnant, unmarried or divorced.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fentahun Adane
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
| | - Girma Seyoum
- Department of Anatomy, College of Health Sciences, Addis Ababa University, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
| | - Yoseph Merkeb Alamneh
- Department of Biomedical Sciences, School of Medicine, Debre Markos University, Debre Markos, Ethiopia
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Simegn W, Dagnew B, Dagne H. Self-Medication Practice and Associated Factors Among Health Professionals at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital: A Cross-Sectional Study. Infect Drug Resist 2020; 13:2539-2546. [PMID: 32801792 PMCID: PMC7399467 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s257667] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 07/05/2020] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Self-medication is the use of medication to treat self-diagnosed disorders or symptoms. In the current time, there has been an increasing tendency in self-medication in pharmacies and retail outlets in our country Ethiopia and alarmingly high in healthcare professionals. In spite of the adverse impacts, there were scarcity of data on self-medication practice among health professionals in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to determine the practice of self-medication and its determinant factors among health professionals at the University of Gondar Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Northwest Ethiopia. Methods A Cross-sectional study design was employed using a simple random sampling technique to recruit the study participants. We used self-administered questionnaires to collect the data. Epi Info 7 and SPSS 20 were used for data entry and statistical analysis, respectively. Frequencies and mean with standard deviation were computed. Measure of association between self-medication and independent factors was determined using logistic regression. Variables with a p<0.05 were declared as determinant factors of self-medication practice. Results Four hundred and twelve health professionals were involved in the study with a mean age of 29.9 years (±5.43, range=20–60). In this study, self-medication practice was 54.6% (95% CI: 49.8–59.4). Health professionals who had worked less than 3 years after last graduation (AOR=1.67, 95% CI (1.02, 2.76)), those with 44–55 working hours per week (AOR=2.44, 95% CI: 1.07,5.57), and who knew over-the-counter classification of drugs (AOR=1.75, 95% CI: 1.03,2.99) had significantly higher self-medication practice. Conclusion Self-medication practice was remarkably high in the current study which is a major public health problem. The findings suggest a cooperative implementation of pharmaceutical regulations particularly focusing on those health professionals with high working hours per week.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wudneh Simegn
- Department of Pharmaceutics, School of Pharmacy, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Baye Dagnew
- Department of Human Physiology, School of Medicine, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
| | - Henok Dagne
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health and Safety, Institute of Public Health, University of Gondar, Gondar, Ethiopia
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Fekadu G, Dugassa D, Negera GZ, Woyessa TB, Turi E, Tolossa T, Fetensa G, Assefa L, Getachew M, Shibiru T. Self-Medication Practices and Associated Factors Among Health-Care Professionals in Selected Hospitals of Western Ethiopia. Patient Prefer Adherence 2020; 14:353-361. [PMID: 32110001 PMCID: PMC7040189 DOI: 10.2147/ppa.s244163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/30/2019] [Accepted: 02/07/2020] [Indexed: 01/28/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Even though the type, extent and reasons for self-medication practice (SMP) vary, globally self-medication (SM) is rising to relieve burdens on health services. However, inappropriate SMP results in economic wastes, damage of vital organs, incorrect therapy selection, risk of adverse drug reactions and development of antimicrobial-resistant pathogens. These consequences have severe implications including legal, ethical and quality of health-care delivery. Temporal increment and high prevalence of SM among health professionals is also a major bottleneck for Ethiopia. Hence, the study aimed to assess the SM among health-care professionals (HCPs) in selected governmental hospitals of Western Ethiopia. METHODS An instiution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 338 HCPs using a pre-tested and self-adminstered questionnaries from March 1 to 25, 2018. Simple random sampling was used to select study participants and SMP (yes or no) was the outcome of the study variable. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 20. Crude and adjusted odds ratios (95% CI) were calculated and all results were deemed to be statistically significant when p < 0.05. RESULTS Among the 338 participants, 184 (54.4%) were females and the mean age of the study participants was 25±3.23 years. About 154 (45.6%) of them had work experience of less than 5 years and 49.7% were nurses by profession. The prevalence of SM was 73.4% with 3 months of recall for SM. Familiarity with medicines and ailments (46.8%) and mildness of illness (40.7%) were the most common reasons to self-medicate. The most frequently reported ailments were headache (37.1%) and gastric pain (29.8%). Analgesics (44.4%) and antibiotics (42.7%) were the most commonly used self-medicated categories of drugs. Female sex (Adjusted odds ratio [AOR] =2.13, 95% CI: 1.43-8.66), age 20-29 years (AOR=4.53, 95% CI: 1.01-14.45) and work experience of <5 years (AOR= 3.01, 95% CI: 1.32-11.71) were significantly associated with SMPs. CONCLUSION The study revealed a high prevalence of SMP among HCPs. Sex, age, and work experience were significantly associated with SMPs. Hence, the use of prescription drugs without prescription should be discouraged and appropriate health education should be provided by all concerned bodies on the proper use of drugs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ginenus Fekadu
- Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
- Correspondence: Ginenus Fekadu Clinical Pharmacy Unit Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Oromia, EthiopiaTel +251-917137145Fax +251576617980 Email
| | - Dinka Dugassa
- Department of Pharmacy, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | | | - Tilahun Bakala Woyessa
- Department of Midwifery, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | - Ebisa Turi
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | - Tadesse Tolossa
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | - Getahun Fetensa
- Department of Nursing, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | - Lemessa Assefa
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | - Motuma Getachew
- Department of Public Health, Institute of Health Sciences, Wollega University, Nekemte, Ethiopia
| | - Tesfaye Shibiru
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Wollega University Referral Hospital, Nekemte, Ethiopia
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Haque M, Rahman NAA, McKimm J, Kibria GM, Azim Majumder MA, Haque SZ, Islam MZ, Binti Abdullah SL, Daher AM, Zulkifli Z, Rahman S, Kabir R, Lutfi SNNB, Aishah Binti Othman NS. Self-medication of antibiotics: investigating practice among university students at the Malaysian National Defence University. Infect Drug Resist 2019; 12:1333-1351. [PMID: 31190922 PMCID: PMC6529675 DOI: 10.2147/idr.s203364] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/29/2019] [Accepted: 03/25/2019] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Self-medication of drugs to alleviate symptoms is a common global behavior, helping relieve burdens on health services, but many drugs eg, antibiotics are prescription-only. Self-medication of antibiotics (SMA) is an irrational use of drugs, contributing to microbial resistance increasing health care costs and higher mortality and morbidity. This study aimed to assess SMA among university students. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study conducted among medical and non-medical students of the National Defence University of Malaysia. A validated instrument was used to gather data. Ethics approval was obtained. Random and universal sampling was adopted, and SPSS 21 was used for data analysis. Results: A total of 649 students participated in the study: 48.5% male and 51.5% female, 39.3% reported self-medicating with antibiotics. Penicillin, doxycycline, clarithromycin were the antibiotics most used with the majority reporting no adverse drug reactions. Cost savings and convenience were the principal reasons for SMA which were mainly obtained from local retail pharmacies. Despite medical students (particularly the more senior) having better knowledge of antibiotic use than non-medical students, 89% of all research participants responded that practicing SMA was a good/acceptable practice. Conclusion: SMA is common amongst Malaysian students and, despite understanding why SMA is unwise, even medical students self-medicate.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mainul Haque
- Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (National Defence University of Malaysia), Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
| | - Nor Azlina A Rahman
- Department of Physical Rehabilitation Sciences, Kulliyyah of Allied Health Sciences, International Islamic University Malaysia, Kuantan, 25200, Malaysia
| | - Judy McKimm
- Swansea University School of Medicine, Grove Building, Swansea University, Swansea, Wales, SA2 8PP, UK
| | - Golam Mohammad Kibria
- Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (National Defence University of Malaysia), Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
| | - Md Anwarul Azim Majumder
- Department of Medical Education, Faculty of Medical Sciences, The University of the West Indies, Bridgetown, Barbados, West Indies
| | - Seraj Zohurul Haque
- Department of Orthopedic Surgery, Ninewells Hospital & Medical School, Dundee, DD1 9SY, Scotland, UK
| | - Md Zakirul Islam
- Department of Pharmacology, Eastern Medical College, Burichang3520, Bangladesh
| | - Shahidah Leong Binti Abdullah
- Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (National Defence University of Malaysia), Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
| | - Aqil Mohammad Daher
- Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (National Defence University of Malaysia), Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
| | - Zainal Zulkifli
- Department of Surgery, Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Hospital, Temerloh, Pahang, 28000, Malaysia
| | - Sayeeda Rahman
- Department of Pharmacology and Public Health, School of Medicine, American University of Integrative Sciences, Bridgetown, Barbados
| | - Russell Kabir
- School of Allied Health, Faculty of Health, Education, Medicine and Social Care, Anglia Ruskin University, Chelmsford, Essex, UK
| | - Siti Nur Najihah Binti Lutfi
- Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (National Defence University of Malaysia), Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
| | - Nur Syamirah Aishah Binti Othman
- Faculty of Medicine and Defence Health, Universiti Pertahanan Nasional Malaysia (National Defence University of Malaysia), Kuala Lumpur, 57000, Malaysia
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Sisay M, Mengistu G, Edessa D. Epidemiology of self-medication in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. BMC Pharmacol Toxicol 2018; 19:56. [PMID: 30201045 PMCID: PMC6131789 DOI: 10.1186/s40360-018-0248-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/31/2018] [Accepted: 09/05/2018] [Indexed: 12/05/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Self-medication is the use of drugs to treat self-diagnosed disorders and/or symptoms, or the intermittent or continued use of a prescribed drug for recurrent disease or symptoms. This phenomenon is alarmingly increasing over time despite the occurrence of health-related hazards. This study is, therefore, aimed to quantitatively estimate self-medication practice and possible reasons for it in Ethiopia. Methods Data were identified from major databases and indexing services including EMBASE (Ovid), PubMed, MEDLINE (Ovid), and Google Scholar. Both published and unpublished records addressing self medication practice in Ethiopia without time limit were included for the study. Data were extracted with structured format prepared in Microsoft Excel and exported to OpenMeta[analyst] version 3.3 software for analyses. Pooled estimation of outcomes was performed with DerSimonian-Laird random-effects model at 95% confidence level. Sensitivity and subgroup analyses were also considered. Degree of heterogeneity of studies was presented with I2 statistics. Publication bias was also performed with the help of Comprehensive Meta-Analysis version-3 software and presented with funnel plots of standard error supplemented by Begg’s and Egger’s tests. The study protocol is registered on PROSPERO with reference number ID: CRD42018093790. Results A total of 27 studies with 9586 participants were included for the study. The pooled prevalence of self-medication in Ethiopia was found to be 44.0% (95% confidence interval [CI]: 35.1, 52.8). Geographical-based subgroup analysis revealed that the highest prevalence was observed at the capital of Ethiopia, Addis Ababa, 62.8% (95% CI: 42.3, 83.2). Population based analysis indicated that healthcare professionals and students were the main practitioners of self-medication. Besides, the prevalence of self-medication practice in pregnant women is approximately 22.9% (95% CI: 9.8, 36). The most common reasons to practice self-medication were previous experience of clients and/or familiarity of treatments, 31.3% (95% CI: 21.5, 41.1) and perceived mildness of the illness, 31.1% (95% CI: 26.0, 36.2). The pooled prevalence of analgesics, antimicrobial agents and gastrointestinal drugs were 46.1% (95% CI: 36.2, 56.1), 28.2% (95% CI: 19.6, 36.8), and 14.9% (95% CI: 7.8, 21.9), respectively. Conclusion Self-medication practice becomes a common phenomenon in Ethiopia. The use of prescription-only medications including antimicrobial agents without medical consult has become alarmingly high. This practice will come with potential health related hazards including emergence of antimicrobial resistance. Therefore, there must be a multitude of strategies for reversing the current worrying trends of self-medication. Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s40360-018-0248-8) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mekonnen Sisay
- Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, P.O. Box 235, Harar, Ethiopia.
| | - Getnet Mengistu
- Pharmacology Unit, Department of Pharmacy, College of Medicine and Health Sciences, Wollo University, P.O. Box 1145, Dessie, Ethiopia
| | - Dumessa Edessa
- Department of Pharmacy Practice, School of Pharmacy, College of Health and Medical Sciences, Haramaya University, P.O. Box 235, Harar, Ethiopia
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