Abstract
Background: Self-medication is a common healthcare practice worldwide, particularly among university students who often possess sufficient knowledge and easy access to medications. While self-medication may provide quick relief for minor illnesses, inappropriate use can lead to adverse drug reactions, incorrect diagnoses, antimicrobial resistance, and other health complications. Nursing students, due to their healthcare knowledge and clinical exposure, may be more likely to engage in self-medication practices.
Objective: To assess the prevalence of self-medication practices and identify associated risk factors among nursing students at the University of Lahore.
Methods: A quantitative cross-sectional study was conducted among 121 nursing students enrolled in the 2nd and 3rd years at the University of Lahore. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using SPSS version 25.0. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize demographic characteristics, self-medication practices, reasons for self-medication, common illnesses treated, and perceptions regarding associated risks.
Results: All 121 participants completed the questionnaire, yielding a response rate of 100%. Female students constituted 77.7% of the sample, while 68.6% were aged 21–22 years. The most common reasons for self-medication included avoiding long waiting times at clinics (57.9%), obtaining quick relief (55.4%), managing minor illnesses (56.2%), convenience (50.4%), and greater treatment choice (66.1%). Frequently self-treated conditions included cough (61.2%), stomachache (57.9%), headache (54.5%), and fever (48.8%). Although only 18.2% of respondents considered self-medication a safe practice, most participants demonstrated awareness of potential risks such as drug interactions, incorrect self-diagnosis, inappropriate dosage, premature discontinuation of antibiotics, and adverse drug reactions. Significant associations were observed between self-medication practices and demographic factors including age, gender, and educational level.
Conclusion: Self-medication is highly prevalent among nursing students and is primarily driven by convenience, perceived minor illness severity, and time-saving considerations. Despite awareness of associated health risks, the practice remains widespread. Educational interventions, awareness campaigns, and stricter regulation of medication dispensing are recommended to promote responsible medication use and reduce potential health hazards among university students.