Irrational drug use based on self medication for some common clinical conditions in an educated population of Karachi

Abstract

Objectives: To assess the irrational treatment approach for some common clinical conditions by females in higher educational institutes of Karachi, Pakistan.

Methodology: The study was conducted in two private sector institutes for higher education in Karachi from Jan 2011-June 2011. A pretested questionnaire containing open-ended and close-ended items was administered to female students and teachers.

Results: The tendency to self diagnose and self medicate (63.78%) is more than seeking appropriate medical treatment (36.21%). The most common condition treated by self medication is Headache (96.52%) and the most common condition in which appropriate medical treatment  sought, is Respiratory infection(58.70%).Self medication is also reported in fever (80%), GI infections (61.30%), menstrual pain (73.91%), allergies (72.61%), cough (71.30%), minor cuts/wounds (85%) and (54.57%) in anemia/fatigue and general weakness.

Conclusions: Irrational drug use of OTC medicines and antibiotics commonly prevail in the educated population instigating the abuse potential and relative hazard. Effective regulation, control and pharmacovigilance in line with core intervention policies of WHO is required.