Comparative Study on the Prevalence of Self-medication Practices Using Antibiotics among the Different Socio-economic Classes of Shimoga, Karnataka
Background: Self-medication is the use of medicinal products without prior medical consultation or medical advice. Self-medication is an irresponsible use of antibiotics and contributes to the development of resistance in bacteria. This study would help to design a line of action to ameliorate the a...
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| Main Authors: | , , , , , , |
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| Format: | Article |
| Language: | English |
| Published: |
Wolters Kluwer Medknow Publications
2025-04-01
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| Series: | Journal of Medical Evidence |
| Subjects: | |
| Online Access: | https://journals.lww.com/10.4103/JME.JME_124_22 |
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| Summary: | Background:
Self-medication is the use of medicinal products without prior medical consultation or medical advice. Self-medication is an irresponsible use of antibiotics and contributes to the development of resistance in bacteria. This study would help to design a line of action to ameliorate the alarming trends of self-medication with antibiotics and antibiotic resistance.
Aims:
The objective is to assess the prevalence and patterns of the practice of self-medication using antibiotics among the general population of Shimoga district of Karnataka.
Patients and Methods:
A community-based cross-sectional study was carried out in the Shimoga district of Karnataka. Data were collected from 800 adults by door-step interview using a questionnaire after obtaining consent. Data were entered in Excel and were analysed using Epi-info software.
Results:
Of the 800 respondents, 13.5% were involved in the practice of self-medication. Of this 13.5%, 55.56% belonged to an urban area and 54.63% belonged to below the poverty line. The major source of non-prescription antibiotics was registered medical shops and pharmacies.
Conclusions:
There is an urgent need for public health authorities in India to enforce existing laws on antibiotic sales and enlighten people on the dangers of irrational use of antibiotics. |
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| ISSN: | 2667-0720 2667-0739 |