Abstract

The rising issue of self-medication among university students in Kampala necessitates a deeper understanding of its
prevalence and determinants. This study aims to investigate the extent and correlates of self-medication among
students enrolled in health sciences programs at Kampala International University - Western Campus. A total of
294 participants from various health-related disciplines were surveyed using a structured questionnaire. Data
analysis involved univariate and multivariate logistic regression. Results indicate a high prevalence of selfmedication
(78.6%) among the sampled students. Factors associated with increased likelihood of self-medication
include age range of 20-25 years, monthly expenditure of 100,000 – 180,000 Shs, previous experience-based
knowledge, anticipation of doctor prescribing a familiar drug, use of opioid analgesics, pursuit of pharmacy
programs, obtaining drugs from community pharmacies, and self-medication with antibiotics. These findings
underscore the urgent need for targeted interventions to address self-medication practices and promote responsible
healthcare behavior among university students
Keywords: Self-medication, University students, Health sciences, Drugs. Pharmacy.