The Self-medication of Anxiolytics, Antidepressants, and Psychoactive Stimulants amongst Students of HITEC-IMS Taxila: A Cross-Sectional Study
Abstract
Introduction: Self-medication becomes a cause for concern when it is carried out on prescription drugs. The irresponsible self-medication of psychoactive stimulants and antidepressants is attributed to accomplishing the tasks and avoiding depressive behavior linked with the experience while coping with studies.
Objective: Determine the frequency of self-medication of anxiolytics, antidepressants, and psychoactive stimulants among medical and dental students. . To identify the reasons for using anxiolytics, antidepressants, and psychoactive stimulants among medical and dental students. Determine the association of self-medication with gender, age, living status, and the year of the study.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted at HITEC-IMS and Dental College Taxila from January to August 2022. A sample size of 250 was calculated by the Open Epi calculator from a total population of 700 with a 50% anticipated frequency, a 95% confidence interval, and a 5% chance. Convenience sampling was adopted for taking the samples of medical and dental students. Data was collected manually by structured Performa and analyzed by SPSS version 25.
Results: A total of 250 students were included in the study. 86.8% were medical students, and 13.2% were from dental colleges. 71.6% of females and 28.4% of males participated in the study. Out of 250 students, 79 (31.6%) were using these medicines. 44 (55.7%) were using antidepressants, 25 (31.6%) were using psychoactive stimulants, and 10 (12.7%) were using both. Out of the 79 students who were using these medicines, the frequency of self-medication was 40 (50.6%), but 39 (49.9%) were using them with a proper prescription. Gender showed a significant association with self-medication (p-value 0.01).
Conclusion: The self-medication of stimulants, anxiolytics, and antidepressants attributed to study stress is alarming among medical and dental students. Counselling and mentoring regarding stress coping strategies should be part of undergraduate training.
