A Study on Self-Medication Practice among Nursing Pharmacy and B. Arch Students in a Private Institution

Background: The consumption of drugs without consulting healthcare professional regardless of side effects and duration of therapy is known as self-medication. Objectives: This study was conducted to analyse the practice of SM among the students and to survey pharmacists regarding the practice of drug counselling while dispensing. Methods:  6 months Study was carried out by collecting the data with the help of questionnaire and thereby collecting their answers. The data was analysed statistically in terms of actual numbers and percentage. Results:  According to our study the prevalence of SM is higher among   juniors than seniors. Previous experience , economy, quick relief were  most prevailing  reasons for  SM. Mostly to Fever and headache , acidity , cough , cold and arthritis .Most frequently used medications were analgesics, antipyretics, and antacids , and all they get information is from media , parents  and friends most probably. Our study also revealed that in nearby pharmacies  most of them were certified pharmacists(96%),mostly dispensed drugs were without prescription and people  do not ask for counselling of the medicine due to lack of time and interest. Conclusion: Our study concluded that the prevalence of SM was seen in higher levels among the students and is the primary reason for irrational use of medicines. Hence proper information has to be given to the students about the negative effects of the drugs and to take proper advice and assistance by a health care professional before taking medication. Keywords: Self-medication, irrational use, prevalence, pharmacist, drugs