Abstract
Introduction: Self-medication has been very popular and globally
prevalent for a long time. Aim: This research aims to present
pharmacists’ engagement in the process of self-medication in the
Sarajevo Canton. Methods: A total of 312 respondents completed an
anonymous questionnaire-based survey. The first group (165 respondents)
was surveyed in the pharmacy after buying a non-prescription drug, and
the second group (147 respondents) outside the pharmacy. Results: The
most commonly purchased drug was paracetamol, whereas headache was
dominant amongst health conditions for which treatment respondents
intended to use the purchased drug. A belief that respondents could cure
themselves was the most common answer when asked why they had not
visited a doctor, whereas previous experience with the purchased drug
prevailed as an answer when asked from whom they had gotten information
about the adequacy of the purchased drug for their health problem.
Respondents mostly bought drugs for themselves. Pharmacists instructed
65% of respondents on how to take the purchased drug and checked
whether 55% of respondents bought an appropriate drug for their health
problem. Only 25% and 29% of respondents were informed about the
adverse effects and potential contraindications or interactions of the
purchased drug, respectively. According to 45% of respondents,
pharmacists spent up to one minute in a conversation with them about the
purchased drug. Conclusion: In the Sarajevo Canton, pharmacists should
be more actively involved in the process of self-medication and provide
the necessary advice to patients consuming non-prescription drugs.
Further research is needed to create a clearer picture.