Self-Medication Practices Among Physicians: A Cross-Sectional Survey

Abstract Background: Self-medication (SM) is a prevalent practice among healthcare professionals, including physicians, due to their medical knowledge and access to medications. This study investigates the prevalence, patterns, and associated factors of SM among physicians to understand its implications for healthcare practices and patient safety. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 500 licensed physicians in various healthcare settings using a self-administered, structured questionnaire. The questionnaire assessed socio-demographic characteristics, knowledge and attitudes toward SM, prevalence and frequency of SM, types of drugs used, reasons for SM, and commonly self-medicated conditions. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 26.0, with descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and logistic regression to identify predictors of SM (p < 0.05). Results: Of the 500 physicians surveyed (mean age: 47.1 years, SD: 11.0), 69.2% reported engaging in SM. Analgesics (18.2%), antipyretics (17.2%), and vitamins/supplements (17.4%) were the most commonly used drugs. The primary reasons for SM included minor illness (19.8%), time constraints (13.8%), and emergency use (20.0%). Common conditions treated were headache (11.4%), fever (14.2%), and common cold (12.2%). Logistic regression identified younger age, fewer years of experience, and hospital-based practice as significant predictors of SM (p < 0.05). Conclusion: Self-medication is highly prevalent among physicians, driven by convenience, perceived minor ailments, and easy access to medications. While often practical, SM poses risks such as misdiagnosis and adverse drug reactions. Targeted educational interventions and improved access to confidential healthcare services are needed to promote safer health-seeking behaviors among physicians.