Prevalence and Drivers of Self-Medication Practices among Savar Residents in Bangladesh: A Cross-Sectional Study

Background: Self-medication practice (SMP) is widely adopted among residents of such countries as Bangladesh. However, the major determinants of SMP have only scarcely been evaluated. Therefore, this cross-sectional study aimed to fill this knowledge gap by assessing the prevalence and determining factors of SMP. Methods: A convenience sample of individuals residing in Savar (Dhaka, Bangladesh) >16 years of age and suffering from an illness >2 months underwent face-to-face interviews during January-February, 2019. Results: Among 520 interviewees fulfilling entry criteria, the prevalence of SMP was reported as 60.2%. Drug shops, previous knowledge or prescription, and consulting with peers (friends or relatives) were the most sought sources of SMP, whereas simple illness, higher consulting fees, unsatisfactory health-care services, and delayed access were reported as the motives. From the regression analysis, the sociodemographic risk factors of SMP were reported as being older (compared to <18 years), married, illiterate (compared to having higher education), having engaged in any occupation (ie, service, business, homemaker, and others compared to student), and suffering from chronic illness. Conclusion: SMP is highly prevalent and exhibits significant socioeconomic determinants. Development of proper health care-access systems and public education should be implemented to reduce the rate of SMP.