TO EVALUATE THE LEVEL OF AWARENESS, RISK PERCEPTION, AND INFLUENCING FACTORS OF SELF-MEDICATION AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS: A COMPARATIVE CROSS SECTIONAL STUDY.

Abstract

Objective(s): To compare the prevalence and frequency of self-medication among medical and non-medical students and to assess the influence of digital media, risk perception, and level of awareness on self-medication.

Methodology: A Comparative cross-sectional study was conducted on students from medical and non-medical universities in Peshawar (Jan–Sep 2024).A total sample of 550 was calculated using OpenEpi (95% confidence, 5% margin of error). Stratified random sampling ensured proportional representation. Data were collected via a structured questionnaire on demographics, drug use patterns, information sources, awareness of side effects, and risk perception. Analysis was performed using SPSS v26 with Chi-square tests (p < 0.05).

Results:

Among 550 students (55% medical, 45% non-medical), self-medication was more prevalent in medical students (32%) vs. non-medical (20%) (p = 0.03). Commonly used drugs were antipyretics (57%), antiallergics (19%), and antibiotics (6%). Awareness of side effects was low; only 33% were fully aware, with higher awareness observed among medical students.(42% vs. 20%).

Antibiotic use without prescription was reported by 25% in both groups with significant association (p = 0.005). Antiallergic self-medication was significantly higher among medical students (p < 0.001).

Digital influence was notable: 24% used platforms like ChatGPT/Google, 44% self-diagnosed, and 57% were influenced by peers or social media. Barriers to healthcare access (41%) and financial/time constraints (33%) were key reasons for self-medication.

Conclusion:
Self-medication is common among students, particularly medical students, yet overall awareness remains low. Social media plays a significant role in promoting this practice because of its easy accessibility, lower cost, and time-saving appeal.