[Self-medication for dermatologic conditions in Lomé, Togo].
OBJECTIVE
The aim of this study was to describe features of self-medication for skin conditions observed at public dermatology centres in Lome, Togo.


METHODS
This cross-sectional study was conducted from July 1 to September 30, 2008 in 3 public dermatology centres in Lome-Commune. All patients consulting at the study centres for the first time were recruited, interviewed and examined.


RESULTS
Of 600 patients enlisted in the study, 264 (44%) had practiced self-medication. There were more women than men (sex ratio: 0.8). In most cases, products used for self-medication were recommended by a friend and/or relative (72%). Most products were obtained from either pharmacies (42.4%) or street vendors (37.9%). The average cost of self-medication was 520 FCFA (0.79 euros). Products applied by the topical route were the most common (72%) and most patients reported dissatisfaction with results (67.8%).


CONCLUSIONS
This study demonstrates that self-medication is widely practiced for dermatologic conditions in Lome and provides insight into the circumstances, reasons and sources of self-medication.
Mouhari-Toure
A
A
Kombaté
K
K
Saka
B
B
Akakpo
S
S
Boukari
O B T
OB
Pitche
P
P
Tchangaï-Walla
K
K
D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002648:Child; D002675:Child, Preschool; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D019538:Health Care Surveys; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs / Q000008:administration & dosage; D012651:Self Medication / Q000191:economics / Q000523:psychology* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D012871:Skin Diseases / Q000188:drug therapy*; D014037:Togo; D017211:Treatment Failure
D004366:Nonprescription Drugs