Pattern of Self-Medication Among Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery Students of Sheikh Zayed Medical College, Rahim Yar Khan

Abstract

Background & Objective: Self-medication among medical students, particularly MBBS students, is a

global concern due to its potential impact on future healthcare practices. The aim of this study was to evaluate

the patterns of self-medication among MBBS students.

Methods: A cross-sectional study at Sheikh Zayed Medical College, Rahim Yar Khan, investigated the

pattern of self-medication among MBBS students. All MBBS students participated in the data collection

period, which ran from August 15 to September 15, 2023. A WhatsApp group was used to deliver an online

questionnaire, which was completed by 130 individuals who met the inclusion criteria. The survey examined

demographics, self-medication habits, motivations and sources of medicine. Statistical analysis was performed

using SPSS version 25.

Results: Of the 130 participants, a considerable proportion 67 (51%) admitted to self-medicate for more than

2 symptoms with convenience cited as the main reason by the participants (46.15%). Headaches were the

most frequently self-medicated condition (51.54%), while skin wounds had the lowest percentage of self-

medication (10%). Moreover, a significant percentage of individuals (36.15%) reported modifying their pres-

cription dose.

Conclusion: The high rate of self-medication among MBBS students highlights the importance of targeted

measures to encourage future healthcare workers to use medications responsibly and to prioritize patient

safety.