BREAKING THE CHAIN: CURBING SELF-MEDICATION AND ENSURING SAFE DRUG DISPOSAL FOR A HEALTHIER SOCIETY

Self-medication is a common practice where in individuals use medications without consulting healthcare professionals. This paper explores the prevalence, drivers, and health risks associated with self-medication, especially in relation to its public health impacts. Despite being perceived as an act of self-care, self-medication raises serious concerns regarding misuse, incorrect dosage, treatment delays, and antibiotic resistance. In addition, improper disposal of unused or expired drugs contributes to environmental pollution, accidental poisoning, and misuse. This paper critically examines the factors promoting self-medication and unsafe drug disposal, the consequences thereof, and offers strategic recommendations for curbing these practices through public education, regulatory frameworks, and proper waste management systems.