Self-medication and public health: Analysis of risk factors, knowledge and health behaviors in adults and the elderly
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.21527/2176-7114.2025.50.15629Keywords:
Self-medication, Medicines without Prescription, Pharmaceutical PreparationsAbstract
This study aimed to analyze the health literacy of adults and the elderly regarding self-medication and evaluate the practice and its clinical complications. This is a descriptive, cross-sectional, quantitative study carried out in primary health care in Brazil. A structured instrument comprising 41 questions was used to collect the data. Descriptive statistics and bivariate data analysis were carried out using the Bioestart 5.0 and Epi info 7.2.5.0 software (p<0.05). Of the 241 users interviewed, 89% said they take medication independently. When asked about the practice and clinical complications of self-medication, 86% were unaware. In the last 15 days, 83% had taken medication without a prescription from a health professional. The dependent variable (knows what self-medication means and its consequences for health) had a statistically significant association with schooling (p<0.001), family income (p<0.007), profession (p<0.001), place of residence (p<0.013), and household stock (p<0.011). It was concluded that more than half of the interviewees practiced self-medication and that individuals with a higher level of education, living in urban areas, and holding public office were more likely to self-medicate.
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