Self-Medication Practices among Parents in Italy

Abstract EN

The aims of this cross-sectional survey were to document the prevalence, the determinants, and the reasons of oral medication use without the prescription of a physician among a random sample of 672 parents of students attending randomly selected public schools in Italy.

A total of 69.2% practiced self-medication at least once.

The odds of having performed a self-medication were higher in females, in younger population, and in those who have had a health problem in the preceding year and were lower in respondents with a middle or lower school level of education.

Among those reporting experience of self-medication, 53.4% have practiced at least once in the last year and this was more likely for those who have had a health problem.

Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were more frequently used without a prescription in the last year.

Two-thirds inappropriately self-medicated in the last year at least once.

Of those who did not report a self-medication, 13.1% were willing to practice it.

Females were more willing and those with a secondary school level of education less willing to practice self-medication.

The frequency of oral self-medication was quite high and in most cases inappropriate with a potential impact on the health status and educative programs are needed.