Factors Influencing Self-Medication Behavior Among Adults in the Ashaiman Municipal District, Greater Accra, Ghana
Emmanuel Teyie
ABSTRACT
Self-medication is defined as a human behavior, in which an individual uses a substance or any exogenous influence to self-administer treatment for physical or psychological ailments. Self-medication is prevalent among adults in the Ashaiman Municipal District, Ghana. This cross-sectional study, conducted from September 28 to October 10, 2020, aimed to identify the factors influencing self-medication practices among adults in this community. Data were collected from 161 participants through structured and interviewer-administered questionnaires. The study found that 66.5% of participants used analgesics, 28.6% used antibiotics, and 32.9% used antimalarials for self-medication. The primary reasons for self-medication included perceived mildness of the condition (38.8%), time-saving (36.3%), and cost-effectiveness (22.5%). While the majority of respondents (88.1%) were aware of the risks associated with selfmedication, such as incorrect dosage and drug dependency, the practice remains widespread. The findings highlight the need for public health education and stronger regulation of over-the-counter medication sales to mitigate the potential dangers of self-medication.
