Self Medication (A dangerous practice)

Different drugs have different effects; they may be used for different reasons. The use of medications for self-recognized & self-diagnosed conditions without prior medical consultation, regarding indication, dosage, and duration of treatment is referred to as self-medication. In most illnesses self-medication is the first option, which makes it a common practice worldwide.

Self-medication is far from being a completely safe practice, in particular in the case of non-responsible self-medication.

Potential risks of self-medication practices include:

Incorrect self-diagnosis, delays in seeking medical advice when needed, infrequent but severe adverse  reactions, dangerous drug interactions, incorrect manner of administration, incorrect dosage, incorrect choice of therapy, masking of a severe disease and risk of dependence, abuse & resistance.

Common illnesses where patients self medicate

 Common infections, like cold & Flu, cough

Anxiety & Mental illness

Acne

Weight loss

Factors leading to self-medication

 Socioeconomic factors waiting time

Health care cost

Lack of awareness

Sources of medicines

Pharmacies

Drug stores

Medicines stored at home

Friends and relatives

Street vendors

Medications categories mostly used in self-medication are, Antibiotics, Anti-malarials, Anti-allergy, Pain killers, Weight gain and weight reducing agents, Multivitamins, Skin bleaching steroids, supplements.

Although responsible self- medication which requires a certain level of knowledge and health orientation has some advantages, as it is thought to reduce the load on the medical services, decrease the time spent in waiting to see the physician, and saves cost especially in economically deprived countries with limited health resources .However,  responsible self-medication is not free of risk, which can increase the burden and out- of- pocket expenses since it may result in adverse health effects that require medical intervention.  Several studies investigating self-medications have revealed that common over the counter and Prescription Only Medications have been associated with adverse health reactions due to use of sub therapeutic doses and frequent use of antibiotics (ending up in anti-biotic resistant bacterial infections) and other prescription only medicines.

We all know that Pharmacies survive commercially, through product sales, but it should never be the principal focus.

Conclusion

One should consult a physician for proper diagnosis, and further consult a pharmacist to seek guidance regarding proper administration of prescribed medicine to get optimum therapeutic results is necessary.

We encourage, proper diagnosis of medical situation through consultants, before heading towards pharmacy, to avoid serious medical issues and delay in treatment of root cause.