SELF-MEDICATION AMONG UNIVERSITY STUDENTS: A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY

Self-medication is recognized as a behavior of health management among university students. This study aimed to describe the practices of self-medication and explore the factors influencing selfmedication practices among university students built upon by the experiences of students who were concerned with this issue. A phenomenological qualitative approach was applied by using purposive sampling method consisting of 30 university students. Semi-structured interviews used to collect data. The results showed the most common form to be purchasing non-prescription medications. Paracetamol and medications for treating the cold and flu were the most common types of self-medication. This behavior is influenced by a previous experience of self-medication, doctors and health services, influential persons, environmental factors, attitudes towards selfmedication and doctors, cost, the perception of the disease and its symptoms, and self-medication information resources. Therefore, it is necessary to develop interventions and strategies to minimize the risks and harmful effects associated with the improper use of these medications based on influencing factors.