The nature of self-medication in Uganda: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Danladi Makeri, Priscilla Peter Dilli, Theophilus Pius, Naheem Adekilekun Tijani, Abdullateef Afolabi Opeyemi, Kadai Alhaji Lawan, Shango Patience Emmanuel Jakheng, Reagan Muhwezi, Ambrose Shabohurira, Ibe Michael Usman, Ezera Agwu
Abstract
BACKGROUND: In Uganda, many people self-medicate and the practice raises important questions about access to healthcare, patient choices, and the increasing prevalence of antimicrobial resistance. This systematic review and meta-analysis investigated the prevalence and factors associated with self-medication in Uganda. METHODS: We searched Scopus, PubMed, and Embase databases, WHO AFRO, UNIPH registries, and Google Scholar search engine from inception to November 2024 using the algorithm "Self-Medication" AND "Uganda". Twenty-two eligible studies were included while adhering to the preferred reporting items for systematic reviews and meta-analysis (PRISMA). RESULTS: A total of 9113 participants were represented across different demographics and regions of Uganda. Our analysis revealed a 55.63% (95%CI [40.40; 70.66] pooled prevalence of self-medication in Uganda. Antibiotics are the commonly self-medicated drugs and ease of access to medications, perceived cost effectiveness, long hospital waiting time, home storage of drugs (leftovers), and perceptions of minor illnesses were key contributors to self-medication behaviour. CONCLUSION: At least 1 in 2 Ugandans self-medicate and antibiotics constitute the dominant self-medicated drugs compounding the situation in an era of antimicrobial resistance. Awareness campaigns on the dangers of self-medication will be timely.