| dc.description.abstract | Self-medication (SM) is an emerging practice commonly used for pain management
among higher education students. However, unreliable self-medication may lead to
severe complications. Therefore, this study aims to assess the prevalence and
factors associated with painkiller self-medication practices. A descriptive crosssectional
study was conducted with a recall period of 3 months among students in
recognized universities and higher education institutes in Western Province, Sri
Lanka. The study was conducted among 338 participants using a convenience
sampling technique via a pre-tested online questionnaire after obtaining ethical
approval (KIU/ERC/21/85) from KIU. Data were analyzed using descriptive
statistics and Pearson's chi-square using SPSS software version 25. Among 338
participants, majority were females (n=234, 69.2%), aged between 22 to 25 years
(n=283, 83.7%), residing in the Western Province (n=263, 77.8%), unemployed
(n=239, 70.7%) and did not drink or smoke (n=288, 85.2%). The prevalence of SM
in this study was 77.2% (n=261) of those; many recalled that they had mostly selfmedicated
during the last month (n=86, 33%) for three main reasons; adequate
knowledge about medication or minor symptoms (22.2%), convenience (20.9%)
and the nearness to healthcare workers (13.4%). Major ailments for SM were
headache (22.1%), cough or runny nose (15.2%), and fever (14.3%). Pharmacies
(62.3%) were the primary source for obtaining painkillers for SM. This study
revealed that self-mediation is a highly prevalent practice among students in higher
education, and there is a significant association between SM practices and the study
(p=0.000). The opinion on SM is significantly associated with the year of study
(p=0.008); similarly, there is a significant association between physical activity and
the knowledge of the correct dosage and frequency of taking painkillers (p=0.004).
Further research into effective tools and regulations for drug surveillance and
awareness of responsible SM practices are recommended to ensure safe SM
behaviour. | en_US |
