Self-medication in the internet era in the city of Ouagadougou: a survey conducted with pharmaceutical pharmacies

L’automédication à l’ère de l’internet dans la ville de Ouagadougou: une enquête menée auprès des pharmacies

Abstract

Background and aim: Self-medication, commonplace in Ouagadougou, is facilitated by growing access to the Internet and social networks. This study analyzes the impact of these technologies on this practice and the public health challenges it poses.

Methods: It was a descriptive cross-sectional study conducted from August 1 to October 31, 2023. The study included all people using self-medication during this period. We randomly selected on-call pharmacies to survey patients purchasing medication. Data were collected using electronic questionnaires via KoboToolbox software. A logistic regression model was used to identify factors associated with the practice of self-medication via the Internet.

Results: We collected data from 697 people. Five hundred people (n=500) out of the 658 who used the Internet, i.e. 75.98%, admitted to having already looked for health-related information on the Internet. The rate of self-medication via the Internet was 55.20% (n=385). The average age for self-medication via the internet was 29.95±9.6 years [18 years - 70 years], with a sex ratio of 1.21. Self-medication via the Internet was noted among people with a higher level of education in 65% of cases. The final logistic regression model showed that lack of access to healthcare professionals, unbearable waiting times in maternity wards, and the high cost of consultation fees and prescribed medication were factors associated with the practice of self-medication via the internet.

Conclusion: Our results show the need to implement strategies to improve quality of care and facilitate access to reliable data sources for populations