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Mediterranean Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
https://ppj.org.ly/article/doi/10.5281/zenodo.15813894

Mediterranean Journal of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences

Original article

Self-medication patterns among Libyan University Medical Students

Ahmed E. Atia, Eshraq Alsherif, Eshrak Alrieibi, Hana Baloumi, Sara Almejerbi

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Abstract

Self-medication, the practice of using medications without professional guidance, is a significant public health concern globally, particularly among medical students who, despite their pharmacological training, often engage in this practice at high rates. This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the prevalence and patterns of self-medication among medical students at the University of Tripoli, Libya. A sample of 121 undergraduate medical students was surveyed using a semi-structured questionnaire. The results revealed a high prevalence of self-medication (82.6%), with analgesics (51.2%) and vitamins (31.4%) being the most commonly used medications. Headache (80.4%), pain (79.9%), and respiratory issues (73.2%) were the primary health complaints prompting self-medication. Key determinants included pharmacist advice (43.8%), prior medical knowledge (32.2%), and recommendations from family or friends (12.4%). Factors such as residing in Tripoli and higher parental education levels were significantly associated with increased self-medication practices. Notably, 62.0% of the students reported using antibiotics without a prescription, raising concerns about antimicrobial resistance. The study highlights the need for educational interventions to promote responsible self-medication practices among medical students, emphasizing the risks associated with inappropriate drug use. Addressing these issues early in medical education could help mitigate the public health implications of widespread self-medication.

Keywords

Antibiotic, medical student, Libya, self-medication

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Submitted date:
05/23/2025

Reviewed date:
06/24/2025

Accepted date:
07/02/2025

Publication date:
08/01/2025

688d2f32a9539546554325f7 medjpps Articles
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