Self-medication practices in the UAE: prevalence, determinants, public awareness, and the impact of an educational intervention on safe medication use.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Self-medication is a widespread practice globally involving the use of medications without direct medical supervision. While it provides convenience and cost savings, it poses risks such as misdiagnosis, incorrect dosages, adverse drug interactions, and antibiotic resistance. This study assessed the prevalence, determinants, and perceptions of self-medication among adults in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and evaluated the impact of a brief educational intervention on public awareness and attitudes.

Methods

A cross-sectional community-based study was conducted among 400 participants using structured, face-to-face surveys, followed by an educational intervention that included a targeted brochure. Post-intervention feedback was collected directly using an online su

SUBMITTER: AlKhalidi DK 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12777936 | biostudies-literature | 2026

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature