A CROSS-SECTIONAL STUDY TO ASSESS THE PATTERN OF SELF-MEDICATION USED FOR DIARRHEA AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS IN TERTIARY CARE TEACHING HOSPITAL OF CENTRAL INDIA

Abstract

Background: Diarrhea is a global public health issue. It is closely linked to knowledge of personal hygiene, quality of drinking water, and sanitation facilities. Medical students frequently self-administer medicines for the treatment of diarrhea without any consultation from the physician. The purpose of the study is to determine the usage pattern of drugs and maintain personal hygiene for diarrhea among medical students. Objectives: To assess the drug usage pattern, personal hygiene, and sanitation practices among day scholars and hosteller medical students. Methodology: A questionnaire-based cross-sectional study was conducted at MGM Medical College and M.Y. Hospital, Indore. Undergraduate and postgraduate medical students, who experienced episodes of diarrhea in the last six months were included in the study. Diarrhea occurring due to organic causes was excluded. Data was collected using Google/physical form and were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Results: 254 students who suffered from diarrhea in the last six months participated in the study out of which 56% were hostellers. Commonly used drugs were ofloxacin, metronidazole, etc. 50.2% of them took self-medication, majority of them were hostellers. Students were found to eat outside at least once a week. Personal hygiene and sanitation were more compromised among hostellers than day scholars. Conclusion: Personal hygiene and sanitation practices should be improved among medical students, especially students living in hostels. These students, despite being from medical backgrounds still take irrational medication. Therefore, there is a need for increased awareness regarding drug usage and self-medication should be discouraged.