Self-medication practice in Kathmandu Metropolitan City: A cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Pharmacology
• Sociology

Background:

• Self-medication is a growing trend in developing nations like Nepal due to high healthcare costs and easy access to over-the-counter (OTC) medications.
• While offering convenience, self-medication carries risks such as adverse drug reactions, antimicrobial resistance, and increased morbidity and mortality.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the prevalence and patterns of self-medication practices among residents in selected wards of Kathmandu Metropolitan City.
• To identify common ailments treated through self-medication and the drug classes frequently utilized.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional descriptive survey was conducted over three months (August-October 2021) in nine wards of Kathmandu Metropolitan City.
• Data were collected from 372 randomly selected patients using a semi-structured questionnaire.
• Participants were individuals seeking self-medication.

Main Results:

• Self-medication was highly prevalent, with 78% of participants reporting the practice.
• Common cold (17.1%), headache (14.7%), fever (14.5%), and cough (7.6%) were the most frequent reasons for self-medication.
• Anticold drugs (18.2%), NSAIDs (17.4%), antipyretics (15.2%), and analgesics (9.1%) were the most commonly used drug classes.

Conclusions:

• Self-medication is a common practice among residents of Kathmandu Metropolitan City.
• The study underscores the necessity for comprehensive public education on appropriate drug use and the risks associated with self-medication.
• Further interventions are needed to promote rational drug use and mitigate potential adverse outcomes.