Prevalence and factors influencing self-medication practices in a semi-urban population in south-west Nigeria

Problem Considered: Self-medication, a response to limited healthcare access has become a dangerous substitute for proper care in developing countries like Nigeria, where medications are easily accessible without prescriptions.While convenient, it carries risks such as misuse, adverse effects and drug resistance.This study investigates the prevalence and contributing factors associated with self-medication in a semi-urban population in Ogbomosho, Nigeria.Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted among 211 adults at Bowen University Teaching Hospital, Ogbomosho, between November and December 2024.Data was collected using a single, pretested, semi-structured questionnaire.Descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, and binary logistic regression were used to assess prevalence and predictors of self-medication. Results:The prevalence of self-medication was high (89.1%).Common reasons included minor illnesses (39.8%), convenience (24.6%), and lack of time to see a doctor (7.6%).Paracetamol (77.7%), antimalarials (49.3%), and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (35.1%) were the most frequently used medications, primarily for symptoms such as headaches, fever and body/joint pains.53.6% of respondents acknowledged self-medication as risky, yet many still practiced it, showing a disconnect between perception and behavior.Significant predictors included use of paracetamol without a doctor's prescription (OR = 3.8, 95% CI: 1.4-9.8),confidence in self-diagnosis (OR = 10.4,95% CI: 3.9-28.0)and having family/friends who self-medicate (OR = 7.3, 95% CI: 3.2-16.5).Although proximity to pharmacies (OR = 2.5, 95% CI: 0.5-12.9)showed increased odds, these associations were not statistically significant. Conclusion:There is a high prevalence of self-medication influenced by accessibility, peer pressure and personal confidence.Interventions require public health education, improved access to healthcare, and the regulation or training of community drug vendors.