A STUDY TO ASSESS THE KNOWLEDGE REGARDING ILLEFFECTS OF THE SELF-MEDICATION AMONG CLIENTS ATTENDING OPD IN SELECTED HOSPITAL AT LALBAGH, MURSHIDABAD

Author Name: 1. Ms. Subarna Neogi, 2. Ms. Sukonna Bhattacharjya

Volume/Issue: 05/11

Country: India

DOI NO.: 08.2020-25662434 DOI Link: https://doi-ds.org/doilink/04.2025-13765653/UIJIR

Affiliation:

1. Assistant Professor, Jiaganj School & College of Nursing, Murshidabad, WB, India.
2. Senior Tutor, Jiaganj School & College of Nursing, Murshidabad, WB, India.

ABSTRACT

Self-medication refers to the use of drugs or home remedies by individuals to treat self-diagnosed conditions without consulting a healthcare professional. This practice is especially common in communities where access to medical care is limited, or where people seek to avoid the time & cost associated with professional consultations. This study aims to assess the knowledge regarding ill effects of self-medication among clients attending OPD. A Cross-sectional study was conducted with structured questionnaire among 50people who are attending OPD in Lalbagh SD Hospital, Murshidabad with different socio-economic backgrounds from the age group between 18-60. In the area 67% clients are involved in self-medication. In presence study among 50 clients’, we found that 8% client's has adequate knowledge,36% client's has moderate knowledge, and 6% client's has poor knowledge about self-medication. The research study shows 40 % clients are taking pain killers, 32% clients are taking antacid, 18% clients are taking anti -biotic among 50 OPD clients. Mostly females (68%) are involved in self-medication comparative to men. Most important cause for self-medication is neglect (40%) and easy availability of drugs along with time consuming and easy availability of drugs (18%) without prescription. The growing trend of self-medication highlights the urgent need for increased public awareness about the safe use of medications, better regulation of drug sales, and stronger community health education. Encouraging responsible behaviour—such as reading drug labels, consulting pharmacists, and avoiding the use of prescription medications without proper advice—can help reduce the associated risks.

Key words: Knowledge, Self-medication, Ill-effects