Variables

% (n)^*

Sources of medications

Private pharmacy

Leftover prescription medication

Family/friends

267 (86.7)

246 (79.9)

70 (22.7)

Sources of information on self-medication

Pharmacists

Previous prescription

Relatives/ friends

Mass media

Other (internet, advertisements)

284 (92.2)

261 (84.7)

112 (36.4)

35 (11.4)

20 (6.5)

Reasons for using self-medication

The perceived problem as minor not requiring medical attention

Know the treatment from previous prescription

Lack of time to attend health care facilities

Confidence in the pharmacist

Cost of consultations with the doctor

Others (advice from family member, have my own stock at home)

184 (59.7)

126 (40.9)

92 (29.8)

82 (26.6)

77 (25.0)

42 (13.6)

Most common perceived illnesses for self-medication

Common cold

Headache

Cough

Sore throat

Toothache

Others (mainly GIT)

279 (90.6)

219 (71.1)

214 (69.5)

211 (68.5)

120 (38.9)

155 (50.3)