Self-Medication Practice and Associated Factors Among Allied Health Sciences Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Background: Self-medication practice (SMP) is widely prevalent among university students and may contribute to irrational drug use, adverse drug reactions, and antimicrobial resistance, particularly in low- and middle-income settings where over-the-counter access to medicines is common. Health sciences students represent a unique population due to their pharmacological knowledge and increased autonomy in health decision-making. Objective: To determine the prevalence of self-medication practice and examine associated sociodemographic and access-related factors among allied health sciences students at The University of Lahore. Methods: A cross-sectional observational study was conducted from June to August 2025 among 119 undergraduate students selected through non-probability convenience sampling. Data were collected using a structured, pre-tested questionnaire assessing demographics, self-medication behavior, indications, frequency, sources, and adverse drug reactions. Descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses were performed using SPSS version 31.0, with adjusted odds ratios (AORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) reported. Results: The lifetime prevalence of SMP was 92.4% (95% CI: 86.1%–96.3%). Headache/fever (49.6%) and respiratory symptoms (20.2%) were the most common indications. Pharmacies were the primary source of medications (58.0%). Adverse drug reactions were reported by 21.0% of students practicing SMP. Multivariable analysis revealed no statistically significant independent predictors, with wide CIs reflecting limited variability in outcome distribution. Conclusion: SMP is highly prevalent among allied health sciences students and is associated with a measurable burden of adverse effects, underscoring the need for strengthened educational interventions promoting rational medication use and pharmacovigilance awareness.