Abstract

A STUDY ON THE INFLUENCE OF ONLINE HEALTH INFORMATION ON THE KNOWLEDGE, ATTITUDE, AND PRACTICE OF SELF-MEDICATION AMONG PHARMACY STUDENTS IN BENGALURU

*Ms. Najma Naini Ahmed, Ms. Khusbu Nagori, Mr. Ribul Ahmed, Mrs. Vasia,
Dr. Praveen Kumar

ABSTRACT

This cross-sectional study investigated the patterns and factors influencing self-medication among pharmacy students from various colleges over a six-month period. A total of 398 students aged 18–30 years participated by completing a validated questionnaire. The respondents included students from Pharm.D (53.5%), B.Pharm (35.2%), D.Pharm, M.Pharm, and Pharm.D Post Baccalaureate programs. The study found a high prevalence (53.5%) of self-medication among the participants. The main reasons for self-medication included the perception that symptoms were not severe, high consultation fees, and the inconvenience of distant healthcare facilities. Pharmacy students’ knowledge appeared to influence their self-medication practices positively, as many reported being cautious with drug dosage and aware of potential adverse drug reactions. Common conditions treated through self-medication included cold, cough, fever, headache, body pain, and diarrhea.Frequently used drugs were painkillers, cough syrups, antibiotics, and antipyretics. While some students experienced adverse effects, most sought medical advice or discontinued the medication when necessary. The findings suggest that although pharmacy students possess a basic understanding of drug use, which promotes cautious self-medication, there is still a need for more structured education. Encouraging responsible self-medication practices through curriculum enhancements—focusing on appropriate drug use, especially antibiotics, and the risks of unsupervised medication—can help ensure safer healthcare behaviors among future pharmacists.

Keywords: Self-medication, Pharmacy students, Cross-sectional study, knowledge, attitude, and practice.