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Vol 3 | Issue 1 | Jan – Mar 2024                                                                                     Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 24  

Original article 

Assessing Self-Medication Practices: A Cross-Sectional Study on Implications 

and Challenges 

Ramdas Bhat1, Fazeela Mohammed Saleem2, AR Shabaraya3 

From, 1Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacology, 2UG Student, 3Principal and Director, Srinivas College of Pharmacy, 

Valachil, Farangipete post, Manglore, Karnataka, India. 

ABSTRACT 

Aim and Background: The survey aimed to explore and understand the perceptions and attitudes of individuals towards self-

medication, and to examine the extent to which they engage in self-medication practices. The survey gathered data on the reasons why 

individuals choose to self-medicate, the types of medications they use, the sources of information they rely on, and their awareness of 

the potential risks and benefits of self-medication. Methodology: A total of 120 subjects participated in the study, and the majority of 

respondents belonged to the age group of 18-20 and 21-25. Among the respondents, 68.5% of them were female, and 51.4% of 

respondents belonged to healthcare professions/students. Result: When asked about their preference for self-medication, 76.6% of the 

respondents preferred self-medication, and the majority of respondents (47.7%) opted to self-medicate sometimes. The principal 

morbidities for which respondents seek self-medication are headache (35.1%), fever, and cold (31.3%). The most commonly used 

medication for self-medication was analgesics and antipyretics (30.3%) and cough and cold preparations (27%). Results of the survey 

showed that while self-medication is a preferred mode of treatment for many individuals, most of them were unaware of the potential 

risks associated with self-medication. Conclusion: The findings of this study highlight the need for public health interventions aimed 

at promoting safe and effective medication use. 

Key Words: Self-medication, Prevalence, Health outcomes, Medication use, Survey. 

elf-medication, the practice of obtaining and using 

medicines without a prescription or professional 

medical guidance, has become a prevalent phenomenon 

with both potential benefits and risks [1]. As noted by the 

World Health Organization (WHO), responsible self-

medication can serve as a valuable tool in preventing and 

treating certain diseases, offering a convenient and cost-

effective alternative for managing common illnesses. This 

nuanced approach acknowledges the positive aspects of self-

medication while recognizing the need for caution in its 

application [2]. The prevalence of self-medication, notably in 

developing nations like India, underscores its significance as a 

primary healthcare strategy, especially in the absence of 

universal healthcare access [3]. Globally, self-medication rates 

range from 11.2% to 93.7%, with studies in India revealing 

rates as high as 37% in urban areas and 17% in rural regions 

[4-9].This widespread reliance on drugs without professional 

consultation poses significant risks, motivating a focused  

Access this article online 

Received – 19th Jan 2024 

Initial Review – 02nd Feb 2024 

Accepted – 15th Feb 2024 Quick Response Code 

study on self-medication practices [10]. The percentage of 

people using self-medication worldwide is shown in (Figure 1) [11]. 

The appeal of self-medication lies in its inherent 

convenience, a key factor influencing individuals to address 

minor health concerns without the necessity of a doctor's visit 

[12]. In today's fast-paced world, where time is often a 

precious commodity, the allure of quick and accessible 

solutions to health issues is undeniable. Additionally, the cost-

effectiveness of self-medication further contributes to its 

popularity, as over-the-counter medications and home 

remedies can often provide relief without the financial burden 

associated with doctor visits and prescription drugs. The time-

saving aspect of self-medication is evident in its elimination 

of the need for scheduling appointments, waiting in clinics, 

and adhering to the timelines of the traditional healthcare 

system [13]. Particularly for minor ailments and well-known 

conditions, individuals may prefer the autonomy and 

immediacy that self-medication offers. However, amidst these 

apparent advantages, it is crucial to acknowledge and address 

the potential drawbacks associated with this practice [14]. 

__________________________________________________ 

Correspondence to: Ramdas Bhat, Associate Professor, 

Department of Pharmacology, Srinivas College of Pharmacy, 

Valachil, Farangipete post, Manglore-574143, Karnataka, 

India. Email: ramdas21@gmail.com.  

S 

mailto:ramdas21@gmail.com


Bhat et al.                                                                                         Self-Medication: Implications and Challenges Study 

Vol 3 | Issue 1 | Jan – Mar 2024                                                                                     Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 25  

Studies have consistently indicated that self-medication 

may lead to delayed diagnosis and treatment of underlying 

health conditions. The absence of professional 

Notwithstanding these apparent benefits, it is imperative to 

recognize and manage any possible disadvantages linked to 

this approach [14]. Research has consistently shown that self-

medication may cause underlying medical issues to be 

diagnosed and treated later than they otherwise would. 

Medical assessment can result in overlooking serious issues 

that require timely intervention [13]. Furthermore, self-

medication poses the risk of interactions between different 

drugs, emphasizing the importance of seeking guidance from 

a licensed medical practitioner to mitigate potential risks and 

ensure the safety and efficacy of the chosen treatment. A 

notable concern associated with self-medication is the 

looming threat of antibiotic resistance [15].  

A major threat to public health is the emergence of drug-

resistant bacterial strains, which are a result of the careless use 

of antibiotics without appropriate medical supervision. It is 

imperative to address this expanding problem and maintain 

the efficacy of these drugs to practice responsible antibiotic 

usage under the supervision of medical specialists [15,16]. 

This study delves into self-medication trends, scrutinizing 

factors and attitudes. By uncovering the nuances, it aims to 

guide health initiatives and policies for a balanced approach to 

medication use, considering both accessibility and responsible 

practices for individual and public well-being. 

 
Figure 1: Percentage of people using self-medication 

worldwide. 

METHODOLOGY 

In conducting this cross-sectional study within the 

community, we selected Srinivas College of Pharmacy in 

Valachil, Mangalore, as our study site. The research involved 

a sample size of 120 subjects and spanned 2-5 days. Our 

inclusive criteria encompassed individuals above 18 years of 

age, comprising both healthcare professionals/students and 

non-healthcare professionals/students who willingly 

participated in the study. This diversity in participants aimed 

to provide a comprehensive understanding of self-medication 

practices. On the contrary, individuals who did not return the 

questionnaire within the stipulated time and those unwilling to 

participate were excluded. 

Data Source: For the collection of data in this self-medication 

study, an online survey was employed, utilizing a 

meticulously crafted questionnaire created through Google 

Forms. The design of the questionnaire drew inspiration from 

existing literature and research on self-medication, garnering 

insights from reputable sources such as Google Scholar and 

other reliable online databases. This method ensured the 

incorporation of established knowledge and best practices into 

the survey instrument, enhancing its validity and relevance. 

The utilization of Google Forms facilitated efficient data 

gathering, allowing participants to provide their responses in a 

user-friendly digital format. 

Data Collection: To ensure a diverse and widespread 

representation, the survey for this study on self-medication 

was disseminated across various online platforms, including 

social media, online forums, and email lists. This approach 

aimed to engage a broad spectrum of respondents, capturing 

diverse perspectives on self-medication practices. The 

questionnaire, designed to extract comprehensive insights, 

focused on gathering data about the perceptions and attitudes 

of individuals towards self-medication. Key aspects explored 

included the reasons driving self-medication, the types of 

medications commonly used, sources of information 

influencing these choices, and awareness of potential risks and 

benefits of participants associated with self-medication. A 

total of 120 subjects actively participated in the study, 

contributing their responses anonymously to prioritize and 

uphold privacy and confidentiality. This approach not only 

encouraged candid feedback but also ensured the ethical 

handling of sensitive information. 

Data Analysis: The collected data underwent a thorough 

analysis employing statistical tools, with descriptive statistics 

like percentages and frequencies summarizing key 

demographic characteristics, including age, gender, and 

profession of the 120 study participants. Detailed scrutiny of 

preferences for self-medication, types of medications used, 

and reasons driving self-medication revealed underlying 

patterns. The findings were then interpreted and presented 

visually using pie charts and graphs, offering a clear and 

accessible representation of prevalent self-medication 

practices. 

RESULT  

The survey, facilitated through a structured questionnaire, 

provided valuable insights into the characteristics and 



Bhat et al.                                                                                         Self-Medication: Implications and Challenges Study 

Vol 3 | Issue 1 | Jan – Mar 2024                                                                                     Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 26  

preferences of the respondents. The age distribution revealed a 

predominant representation within the 18-20 and 21-25 age 

brackets, signifying a predominantly youthful demographic 

engaged in the study. In terms of gender, the survey exhibited 

a slight gender imbalance, with 68.5% of respondents 

identifying as female and 31.5% as male, reflecting varied 

participation across genders. A notable aspect of the 

participant demographics was the professional and educational 

affiliations. Approximately 51.4% of respondents were 

affiliated with healthcare professions or were students in 

related fields, while the remaining participants belonged to 

non-healthcare professions or were students from other 

disciplines. This stratification provided a nuanced 

understanding of the diverse backgrounds contributing to the 

survey. The survey delved into the respondent's attitudes 

towards self-medication, revealing a substantial inclination 

towards this healthcare approach. A significant 76.6% of 

participants expressed a preference for self-medication, 

emphasizing the popularity of this practice within the 

surveyed population. Further exploration into the frequency of 

self-medication uncovered intriguing patterns. The majority, 

comprising 47.7% of respondents, indicated a preference for 

self-medicating "Sometimes," while 39.6% chose the option 

"Rarely." Notably, a small yet consistent percentage of 3.7% 

revealed a persistent preference, selecting "Always" when it 

comes to practicing self-medication as shown in (Table 1). 

Table 1: Distribution of the study subjects according to 

sociodemographic profile 

Distribution of the study subjects according 

to sociodemographic profile 

% 

Age group 18-20 63.1% 

21-25 21.6% 

26-40 8.1% 

Above 40 7.2% 

Sex Female 68.5% 

Male 31.5% 

Stream Health Care 51.4% 

Non-Health Care 48.6% 

Preference to self-

medicating 

Yes 76.6% 

No 23.4% 

Frequency of self-

medicating 

Always 3.7% 

Sometimes 47.7% 

Rarely 39.6% 

Never 9% 

Principal Morbidities for which the respondents seek self-

medication are Headache (35.1%), Fever&Cold (31.3%), GI 

Problems (15.3%), and Dysmenorrhea (14.7%) as shown in 

(Figure 2). Drugs commonly used for self-medication 

included Analgesics and Antipyretics (30.3%) and Cough 

Suppressants/Syrups (27%) followed by Antibiotics (14.8%), 

Antacids (12.1%), Multivitamins (10.8%), and Anti-

Histamines for Allergies (5%)A shown in (Figure 3). 18% of 

the total respondents have experienced side effects as a result 

of self-medication. Among these 18% of the respondents, the 

majority of them have experienced Dizziness (28.7%). Other 

side effects experienced were Nausea/ Vomiting (18.3%), 

Constipation (16.3%), diarrhea (11.6%), Itching/Rashes (9%), 

and Palpitations (8.6%) as shown in (Figure 4). 

 
Figure 2: Principal morbidities for seeking self-

medication. 

 
Figure 3: Drugs used by respondents for self-medication. 

 
Figure 4: Side Effects experienced by Respondents as a 

Result of Self-medication 

35.1

31.3

15.3 14.7

3.6

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

40

30.3

10.8
14.8

5

27

12.1

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35

8.6

18.3

28.7

9
11.6

16.3

7.5

0

5

10

15

20

25

30

35



Bhat et al.                                                                                         Self-Medication: Implications and Challenges Study 

Vol 3 | Issue 1 | Jan – Mar 2024                                                                                     Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 27  

About the sources of medicines for self-medication, 61% of 

the respondents got them from medical stores, 20% of them 

used left over medicines found at home, 13% of them get the 

medicines from families and friends and 6% of them shop 

from online pharmacies as shown in (Figure 5). When the 

attitude of the respondents was analyzed, we got to know that 

31% of the respondent’s considered self-medication as a 

“Friend” and 6% of the respondent’s considered self-

medication as a “Foe”, while majority of them (63%) 

considered self-medication both- A Friend and A Foe as 

shown in (Figure 6). When the questionnaire was analyzed, 

the respondents agreed with various reasons that were against 

and in favor of self-medication. Among the reasons in favor of 

self-medication, the most favored reasons were No Need to 

Visit the Doctors for Minor Illness (48.5%), Time Saving and 

Quick Relief (22.3%), Economical (14.3%), Crowd 

Avoidance (9%) and 5.9% of them feel that they are confident 

about his/her knowledge on the medicines as shown in 

(Figure 7). When the reasons against self-medication were 

assessed, the most important reason were Risk for Adverse 

Effects (30%), Lack of knowledge about the drugs (23.5%), 

Risk of Using Wrong Drugs or Using drugs Wrongly (18.1%), 

Risk of Drug Dependence (16.6%) and Risk of Misdiagnosing 

(11.7%) as shown in (Figure 8). 

               

Figure 5: Source of Medicines for Self-medication                   Figure 6: Respondent's Point of View Regarding Self-Medication 

              
Figure 7:  Why do respondents think Self-medication is a friend?               Figure 8: Why do Respondents think Self-Medication is a Foe? 

 

DISCUSSION 

Several comparative studies have been conducted on the 

prevalence of self-medication in different countries. A study 

conducted in Puducherry, India, reported a high prevalence of 

self-medication among illiterate and middle school-educated 

individuals [17]. Another study conducted in Bangalore, India, 

found that the practice of self-medication differed among 

individuals and was influenced by several factors like age, 

educational status, gender, family monthly income, level of 

knowledge, and attitude [18]. A systematic review and meta-

analysis of studies conducted worldwide found that the 

prevalence of self-medication in university students was high 

[19]. A study conducted in metropolitan areas of Thailand 

reported a self-medication prevalence rate of 88.2% [20]. The 

pervasive prevalence of self-medication, notably among the 

youth, underscores the urgent need for targeted health 

education [21]. Gender and professional diversity reveal 

varied perspectives influencing self-medication practices, with 

common health concerns apparent, but the diverse array of 

drugs used raises concerns about informed decision-making 

and the high prevalence of side effects, particularly dizziness 

[22-24]. The reliance on medical stores and leftover medicines 

signals the accessibility of medications, urging regulatory 

scrutiny. The nuanced perception of self-medication as both a 

“Friend” and a “Foe” underscores the importance of balanced 

Medical 
Store
61%

Left over 
Medicines 
found in 

home
20%

From 
Relatives 

and friends
13%

Online 
Pharmacy

6%

Friend
31%

Foe
6%

Both
63%

48.5

22.3

14.3
9 5.9

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

No need to
visit Dr. for

minor
illness

Quick
Relief and

Time
Saving

Economical Crowd
Avoidance

Confident
about

his/her
knowledge

of drugs.

23.5

30

18.1 16.6
11.7

0
5

10

15
20

25

30
35



Bhat et al.                                                                                         Self-Medication: Implications and Challenges Study 

Vol 3 | Issue 1 | Jan – Mar 2024                                                                                     Indian J Pharm Drug Studies | 28  

healthcare approaches. While convenience and cost-

effectiveness drive self-medication, contrasting concerns 

about adverse effects and misdiagnosis highlight the 

imperative for responsible medication practices. This study 

emphasizes the need for targeted education, regulatory 

measures, and future research exploring underlying factors to 

promote responsible self-care practices, with the potential of 

digital health interventions playing a pivotal role in improving 

overall public health outcomes. 

CONCLUSION 

Prevalence of self-medication is high in the educated youth, 

despite the majority being aware of its harmful effects. Strict 

policies need to be implemented on the advertising and selling 

of medications without prescription to prevent this problem. 

Education to help people to decide the appropriateness of self-

medication is required as responsible self-medication can 

prevent and treat diseases that do not require medical 

consultation and provide cheaper alternatives. Though self-

medication is a convenient alternative, its inappropriate 

practice may cause detritus effects on health. 

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How to cite this article: Ramdas Bhat, Fazeela 

Mohammed Saleem, AR Shabaraya. Assessing Self-

Medication Practices: A Cross-Sectional Study on 

Implications and Challenges. Indian J Pharm Drug Studies. 

2024; 3(1):24-28. 

Funding: None;             Conflicts of Interest: None Stated 

 


