Prevalence of Self-medication Practices and Their Associated Factors in Puducherry, India: A Cross-sectional Study

Background: Self-medication is the most important health issue in developing countries like India. Even though there abundant healthcare access, self-medication still chosen by patients. The purpose of this study was to estimate prevalence and factors associated with practices among urban fisherman population Puducherry. Methods: This cross-sectional conducted from July 2021 December (6 months) 18-60 years residing practice areas. sample selected simple random sampling technique using a semi-structured questionnaire after obtaining informed consent participants. Data analysis carried out chi-square test proportions. Results: majority participants about 77.8% belonged 30-60 age group; and, 57% were male 43% female. 67%. Socioeconomic status had statistically significant relationship other sociodemographic including age, gender, education, occupation. It found that 82.05% practiced for their previous similar complaints. source information regarding obtained pharmacists 55.8%. Among various types self-medication, allopathy drugs reasons because easy access. Most taken symptoms such as cough, cold, flu, headache, myalgia, side effects be 12.1% self-medication. Conclusion: used etc. case emergency hospitals. Awareness hazards, drug resistance prolonged practice, regulation pharmacies limit