Assessment of Self-Medication Practices with Analgesics among Undergraduate Students at the University of Lagos, South West Nigeria

Background: Self-medication with analgesics is a widespread practice among university students globally and poses significant risks including drug dependence, gastric ulceration, and masking of serious conditions. University campuses in Nigeria represent high-risk environments due to academic stress, peer influence, and limited access to formal healthcare. This study assessed the prevalence, types, and motivating factors for analgesic self-medication among undergraduate students at the University of Lagos. Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional survey was conducted among 350 randomly selected undergraduate students across various faculties. A structured, pre-tested questionnaire was used to collect data on frequency of self-medication, types of analgesics used, source of drugs, and reasons for self-medication. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and chi-square tests. Results: The prevalence of analgesic self-medication was 74.3 percent. Paracetamol was the most commonly used drug (61%), followed by ibuprofen (27%). The most cited reasons were convenience (58%), previous experience with the drug (42%), and cost of hospital visits (35%). A significant association was found between faculty type and self-medication behaviour (p less than 0.05). Conclusion: Self-medication with analgesics is highly prevalent among University of Lagos undergraduates and warrants targeted health education campaigns and improved on-campus healthcare access. Keywords: self-medication, analgesics, university students, Lagos, drug safety