title: Self-medication practices among parents in Italy.
abstract: The aims of this cross-sectional survey were to document the prevalence, the determinants, and the reasons of oral medication use without the prescription of a physician among a random sample of 672 parents of students attending randomly selected public schools in Italy. A total of 69.2% practiced self-medication at least once. The odds of having performed a self-medication were higher in females, in younger population, and in those who have had a health problem in the preceding year and were lower in respondents with a middle or lower school level of education. Among those reporting experience of self-medication, 53.4% have practiced at least once in the last year and this was more likely for those who have had a health problem. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs were more frequently used without a prescription in the last year. Two-thirds inappropriately self-medicated in the last year at least once. Of those who did not report a self-medication, 13.1% were willing to practice it. Females were more willing and those with a secondary school level of education less willing to practice self-medication. The frequency of oral self-medication was quite high and in most cases inappropriate with a potential impact on the health status and educative programs are needed.
authors: Department of Experimental Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy.
authors: Luca
authors: L
authors: Garofalo
authors: Department of Experimental Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy.
authors: Gabriella
authors: G
authors: Di Giuseppe
authors: Department of Experimental Medicine, Second University of Naples, Naples, Italy.
authors: Italo F
authors: IF
authors: Angelillo
mesh_terms: D000284:Administration, Oral; D000328:Adult; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007558:Italy / Q000453:epidemiology; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D010290:Parents; D012651:Self Medication / Q000706:statistics & numerical data*; D012959:Socioeconomic Factors