A cross sectional study regarding the self medication practices and its associated factors among residents of Bhubaneswar city, Odisha

<h2>Abstract</h2><h3>Introduction</h3> Self-medication, though often perceived as a convenient and cost-effective solution for minor ailments, poses significant public health risks. It can lead to inappropriate drug use, delayed medical consultation, antimicrobial resistance, and adverse drug reactions. This issue is particularly concerning in developing countries like India. The practice is influenced by various socioeconomic and cultural factors. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the prevalence and associated factors of self-medication among residents of Bhubaneswar city, Odisha. <h3>Materials and methods</h3> A cross-sectional study was conducted among 393 participants residing in Bhubaneswar City, Orissa. The association between self-medication and various influencing factors was analyzed using the Chi-square test and multiple logistic regression analysis. <h3>Results</h3> Among the participants, 79.90 % (n = 314) reported practicing self-medication. Younger individuals (p value = 0.007) and those from the upper and middle socioeconomic strata (p value = 0.01) were significantly associated in self-medication practices. Multiple logistic regression analysis identified key factors positively related to self-medication: access to health insurance benefits (adjusted OR = 5.88), participants' perceived knowledge about self-medication (adjusted OR = 5.69), and the presence of self-medication practices among family members (adjusted OR = 2.13). <h3>Conclusion</h3> The prevalence of self-medication was high in Bhubaneswar, particularly among younger individuals and those with higher socioeconomic status. It is influenced by various factors like individuals' perception about self medications, their perceptions of pharmacists' expertise, and the presence of health insurance. It highlights the need for targeted awareness campaigns to educate the public on the risks of self-medication and promote responsible health-seeking behaviors.