Over the past decade, the practice of self-medication with anti-malarial drugs is
becoming a major health concern specifically in the developing countries. A study
has shown critical attention is needed to address this challenge since self-medication
with anti-malarial drugs has been associated with increased morbidity and mortality
due to malaria epidemic.
This study aimed at exploring the factors influencing Urban district residents toward
self-medication practice for anti-malarial drugs in Zanzibar. However, it was guided
by the following specific objectives namely; (i) to explore the availability of antimalarial
drugs, (ii) to assess the level of knowledge on the consequences associated
with self-medication (iii) to assess the economic influences on the practice of selfmedication
and (V) to assess the level of accessibility of anti-malarial drugs.
A cross sectional descriptive study design was preferred. Both qualitative and
quantitative approaches were used to collect data. The study was conducted in Urban
district in Zanzibar. A total sample of 384 respondents was enrolled in the study.
Purposive, convenient and simple random sampling techniques were used to select
study participants. The data were collected by using questionnaire interviews, focus
group discussions and documentary review. Quantitative data were analyzed by
using Microsoft excel whereas qualitative data were analyzed manually.
The studies found that, majority (75%) of the respondents were knowledgeable about
the malaria in terms of sign, symptoms and treatment. The anti-malarial drugs were
reported to be more in the government owned health facilities. Majority (58%) of the
respondents indicated to be aware on the adverse effects associated with the practice
of self-medication. Affordability of anti-malarial drugs was reported by the majority
of the respondents and anti-malarial drugs were reported to be easily accessible.
The study concluded that, the practice of self-medication with anti-malarial drugs is
very common among the residence of Urban district. However, even though selfmedication
is common, majority of the population sought tested their blood sample
before treating themselves.
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The study recommends that, health education on the consequences of self-medication
should be emphasized. The supportive supervisions should be carried out to ensure
that un authorized drugs are abandoned.