IJSR International Journal of Scientific Research 2277 - 8179 Indian Society for Health and Advanced Research ijsr-7-3-14405 Original Research Paper A STUDY ON ASSESSMENT OF SELF MEDICATION PRACTICES AMONG UNDERGRADUATE MEDICAL STUDENTS OF GAUHATI MEDICAL COLLEGE Krishnatreya Dr. Jutika Ojah Dr. March 2018 7 3 01 02 ABSTRACT

 Introduction:Undergraduate medical students have knowledge of drugs and have a tendency to self–medicate.This study was done to assess the practice of self–medication among these medical students.

Methods:Three hundred medical undergraduates from different years of medical education in Gauhati Medical College were subjected to a validated questionnaire on history of practice of self–medication in last 6 months.

Results:Self medication was practiced by 73.3% students, with highest contribution(31.8%) by 4th year students.There was increase in practice in self–medication with increase in the year since medical admission (p<0.0001).Academic knowledge or textbooks were the most common references used.Reasons for self–medications were mild nature of illness,saving time,urgency and cost–effectiveness.Conclusion:Self–medication is common in undergraduate medical students