Attitudes and practices on self-medication among clients of V and S pharmacy, Kireka, Wakiso district. A cross-sectional study.

Abstract

Background

Attitudes and practices of people on self-medication greatly influence the prognosis of illnesses. The prognosis and effects can either be positive or negative depending on individual practices and attitudes at type of medicine or drug. The aim of the study is to assess the attitude and practices on self-medication among clients of V and S pharmacy.

Methodology

This was a cross-sectional study comprised of all patients who were seeking for medication from V and S pharmacy. in Kireka during the period of data collection. Results were manually analysed and entered into Microsoft excel program and were then presented in the form of tables, graphs and pie charts.

Results

Majority 24 (60.0%) of the study participants were single, 15 (37.5%) were married and 1 (2.5%) was widowed. Majority 12 (30.0%), 11 (27.5%), 9 (22.5%) and 8 (20.0%) disagreed, strongly agreed, agreed and strongly disagreed respectively with the statement “I don’t need a prescription from a doctor before buying medicines from a pharmacy.” 12 (60.0%) of the study participants had completed the treatment course when they self-medicated whereas 8 (40.0%) hadn’t completed the treatment course. 15 (75.0%) participants who had self-medicated had checked the expiry date for the medicine they were to take, whereas 5 (25%) hadn’t checked it.   

Conclusion

The study reveals Poor attitude towards self-medication as well as good and unfit practices  among clients of V and S pharmacy in Kireka was negative due to varying like perceived oneself as minor illnesses among others.

Recommendation

The V and S pharmacy staff should dedicate time to talking to clients about the dangers of SM and should strive to find out any history of medication before dispensing any medicines to its clients.