Prevalence, Patterns and Associated Factors of Self Medication among Nursing Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Self-medication is the use of medicines without a prescription to treat self-recognized illnesses or symptoms. Inappropriate self-medication may result in adverse drug reactions, misuse of medicines, and other health risks, particularly among students.

Objective: To assess the prevalence, patterns, and factors associated with self-medication among nursing students.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 105 nursing students from four different private nursing colleges in Lahore. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS. Frequencies, percentages, and the chi-square test were used for data analysis.

Results: Most students (99.0%) were aged 18–25 years. Overall, 63 (60.0%) students reported self-medication during the previous three months. The most common conditions treated through self-medication were cough (21.0%), headache (19.0%), and runny nose (13.3%). The leading reasons were having an old prescription (22.9%), saving time (21.0%), and pharmacist’s advice (20.0%). Most students used allopathic medicines (78.1%), while 72.4% considered the pharmaceutical company when selecting medications. Although 71.4% checked prescribing information, only 48.6% fully understood the instructions. Adverse events were reported by 33.3% of students.

Conclusion: Self-medication was common among nursing students. Educational interventions emphasizing rational medication use, appropriate interpretation of prescribing information, and potential adverse effects are recommended to promote safer medication practices.