TO INVESTIGATE THE BEHAVIOURS OF SELF-MEDICATION AND AWARENESS ABOUT ANTIBIOTICS IN KARACHI, PAKISTAN

Abstract

The issue of self-medication is a significant problem for health authorities worldwide. The objective of this study was to determine the incidence of self-medication with pharmaceuticals medication and identify the factors related with it among the population of Karachi, Pakistan. This study also attempted to evaluate the attitude of respondents who had engaged in self-medication. This study conducted a survey among a group of individuals (aged 20 and above) living in Karachi, Pakistan, to assess their understanding with antibiotics and practice of self-medication. The study did not include health care providers. A total of 300 questionnaires were filled out. Among the individuals who responded, 86.33% were between the age range of 20 to 49 years, while a total of 37.33% had successfully finished graduate studies. Regarding their understanding of antibiotics, 42% believed that antibiotics should be used to treat common colds, while 47% were used antibiotics without prescription. There is a strong correlation between self-medication and a higher educational level. Individuals with little understanding of antibiotics discontinued their antibiotic treatment at an unsuitable moment prior to the completion of antibiotic duration. To prevent self-medication with antibiotics, it is necessary to implement awareness campaigns and enforce rules regarding the dispensing of medication.