Self medication in developing countries a systematic review

Abstract

Self-medication is common in developing countries where it has both economic and social implications. On the one hand, it is viewed as a large component of self-care, which relies heavily on the consumer’s expertise in terms of experience of the consumer, when it comes to medication use. On the other hand, if not practiced correctly it can lead to multiple issues including abuse and drug resistance. Across surveys conducted in developing countries the reasons why people self-medicate has been studied, to understand the determinants of self-medication and to explain the influence of knowledge and information on self-medication practices. To understand the same a detailed systematic literature review based on survey findings on self-medication in developing countries was carried out. From a total of 52 survey articles, 25 surveys were selected for the present review. From the survey outcomes it was found that the cost, time and past experience with the medicine and symptom were key determinants while healthcare professionals emerged to be the primary sources of information and knowledge for self-medication practices. The prevalence of self-medication as a phenomenon is high and it has both potential benefits and associated risks with it. To ensure that the risks and benefits of medicine usage are known by consumers, we really need to look at and design suitable interventions to promote responsible self-medication and in turn, rational drug use in the developing world.