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Self-medication is defined as the use of drug without the prescription of medical specialists. Inappropriate use of medication may result in a prolonged diagnosis, antibiotic resistance and economic losses. This study was aimed to assess the prevalence rate and risk factors associated with self-medication practices. A total of 120 participants were randomly selected from four different departments of Hazara University Mansehra. Out of total, 56 (46.66%) were males, and 64 (53.33%) were females. The prevalence of self-medication was 71.66%. Over the counter sale (79.06%) and left-over antibiotics from previous prescriptions (23.25%) were recorded to be the two main sources of antibiotics procurement. Most common risk factors responsible for self-medication were less health care facilities, less time and less severity of diseases. Overall, most frequently used antibiotics in the form of self-medication were amoxicillin, erythromycin, co-amoxiclav or metronidazole. Thus, it is critical to implement strict legislation, provide proper health care facilities and to develop public awareness programs.
