Pakistani Population Factors Impacting The Self-Medication Pattern

Abstract

Despite the increased scientific interest in self-medication, little is known about the key factors that influence it, particularly in developing nations. This study was conducted to identify the key variables affecting the self-medication trend in the population of Karachi, Pakistan. 350 individuals from all over Karachi, Pakistan, were sampled for this cross-sectional survey. With their verbal consent, the self-administered, closed-ended, pretested questionnaire was used to collect the data. The questionnaire was divided into three sections: demographic information, self-medication habits, and variables influencing self-medication. Statistical analysis of the data was performed using Microsoft Office Excel 2016. Trade and generic names (57.82%) were frequently used to identify drugs, especially by educated respondents. Education was the main factor impacting the practice of self-medication. Ailment cures account for (63.77%) of the practice's advantages, followed by time and money savings (23.97%) and care independence (12.26%). The main factors determining the pattern of self-medication among the population of Karachi, Pakistan, were literacy and public health education. There were suggestions made regarding the value of community pharmacies and the role of education.