COMMON HEALTH COMPLAINT REPORTED BY STUDENTS ACCORDING TO SPECIALIZATION AND GENDER REGARDING SELF-MEDICATION AT AJMAN UNIVERSITY

Mena Rabea Al-Ani, Najeeb Hassan, Zehra Edis, Samir Haj Bloukh and Moyad Shahwan*

ABSTRACT

Background: Self-medication is the selection and use of non-prescription medicines by individuals’ own initiatives to treat self-recognized illnesses or symptoms. It is practiced Significantly worldwide even though its type, extent and reasons for its practice may vary. Objective: This study was carried out to determine the difference between gender and specializations (medical and non-medical students) regarding self-medication. Materials and Methods: We conducted a cross-sectional survey in Ajman from March to June 2015. A structured questionnaire was used for data collection. Data was analyzed using of Statistical Package for Social Science (SPSS). Chi square test was used to analyze the proper questions. Results: Most drugs for self-medication were obtained from the community pharmacy or previous prescriptions and the most commonly used drugs were analgesic drugs. Common reported illnesses were pain and respiratory symptoms. Saving time and money, previously resolved complains were the top two reported factors for self-medication. Reading materials (inserted package) were the top reported source of drugs information. The adverse effects reported with self-medication were vomiting, nausea and diarrhea. The majority of student stops taking drugs and consulted the doctor or pharmacist when adverse effect occurred. Conclusion: drug regulatory and health authorities have to dedicate some resources used to raise awareness of the students and the general public on the pros and cons of responsible self-medications to eventually improve their attitudes towards the practices of self-medication.

Keywords: spinal anesthesia, patient satisfaction, caesarean section.