Self-medication practice among the general public in Jordan: a cross-sectional study

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Pharmacology
• Social Sciences

Background:

• Self-medication with over-the-counter (OTC) medications is a growing global public health concern, particularly in developing countries.
• Understanding the prevalence and factors influencing self-medication practices is crucial for public health interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the prevalence of self-medication with OTC medications among the general population in Jordan.
• To identify demographic and attitudinal factors associated with OTC self-medication practices.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional online survey was conducted in Jordan from November to December 2022.
• Data were collected via social media platforms using a questionnaire assessing demographics, knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to OTC self-medication.
• Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to determine predictors of self-medication.

Main Results:

• Over half of the 1,218 participants (56.9%) reported using non-prescribed medications in the past year.
• Attitudes towards self-medication showed varied agreement levels, with 57.7% agreeing that OTC medications are safe but physician advice should be sought.
• Older age groups (36-40 and 51+ years), being married or divorced, employment, and chronic diseases were significant predictors of self-medication (p < 0.05).

Conclusions:

• A significant lack of awareness regarding the efficacy of OTC medications exists in the Jordanian general population.
• Attitudes towards self-medication behavior were restricted, suggesting a need for targeted health education campaigns.