Exploring Rational Use of Medicine, Self-Medication Beliefs, and Practices Among University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Self-medication poses a significant challenge at both the individual and community levels. The objective was to assess university students’ understanding of the rational use of medicines and self-medication beliefs and practices. Methods: A web-based cross-sectional study was conducted using mixed random sampling methods. Data were collected through a validated questionnaire covering socio-demographic characteristics, rational use of medicine (RUM), health beliefs, and self-medication practices. Results: A total of 1157 participants were included; 513 medical and 644 non-medical students. Older age groups (> 20 years), female gender, being a medical student, and having good or excellent academic grades were significant predictors of the total RUM score. The perceived self-efficacy score was significantly higher among non-medical students (p<0.002). The prevalence of self-medication was 63.2%. The most commonly self-medicated drugs were anti-cough/flu medications (85.9%), followed by analgesics/antipyretics (79.9%), and antibiotics (51.7%). Forty percent of students reported that previous experience or simple symptoms were the causes for self-medication, followed by saving time and money (31.9%). The significant predictors of self-medication were educational grade, having a chronic disease, a family member who works as a healthcare provider, RUM, and HBM scores. Conclusions: The high prevalence of self-medication among university students, combined with better knowledge and beliefs among medical students, represents an alarming signal and highlights the necessity of early intervention. Special educational programs focusing on the rational use of medicines are required, combined with other interventions, including integration within school and university curricula, as well as strengthening policies to control over-the-counter drug and antibiotic use.