This archive report was first published on 7 May 2020.
May 7, 2020 - The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in self-medication, with people opting to treat themselves instead of seeking medical help. This trend is particularly concerning, as it can lead to severe health complications and even death.
According to Dr. Jacob Shabani, an Assistant Professor of Family Medicine at the Aga Khan University Hospital in Nairobi, self-medication is a growing concern. 'Patients with chronic diseases have used inappropriate pain relieving medications that worsen their diseases,' he warns.
Self-medication involves the use of over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription medicines without proper medical supervision. While OTC medicines are generally safe, they can be misused if not used correctly. Prescription medicines, on the other hand, require a doctor's prescription and can be harmful if not used under medical supervision.
The dangers of self-medication are numerous. They include delays in seeking medical advice, masking of severe diseases, incorrect self-diagnosis, incorrect choice of therapy, incorrect manner of administration, rare but severe adverse reactions, dangerous drug interactions, and risk of dependence and abuse.
Healthcare professionals have been trained to accurately diagnose ailments and administer the appropriate medication. If you or your loved one is experiencing a certain illness, it is advisable to visit a healthcare professional instead of self-medicating.
So, how can we reduce self-medication during the pandemic? Dr. Shabani suggests having a discussion with your healthcare provider on how to seek care safely, making use of teleconsultation options, never sharing prescription medications with others, using all medicines as directed, storing medications securely, and properly disposing of unused medications.
