Promoting Sustainable Behavioral Change in the Non-Medical Use of Medications among University Students: Integrating the Persuasive Communication Model and Herbal-Based Alternatives

Abstract

ABSTRACT
Background
University students practice self-medication as a coping mechanism to combat academic stress, which rises to significantly high proportions during tests and examination periods. Self medication describes the self-administration of medication for the treatment of minor ailments or self-recognised symptoms, as a form of self-care while medication misuse on the otherhand, refers to the use of medication in a manner inconsistent with medical guidelines or prescription; including but not limited to incorrect doses or for recreational uses associated rather than therapeutic reasons. Medication misuse and abuse continue to constitute a public health concern globally. Responsible self-medication is a global practice that involves the use of medications to alleviate the symptoms of minor ailments. Despite the merits of convenience, such as shorter wait times to get medical attention or prescriptions and cost savings, it poses health risks such as misdiagnosis, incorrect dosages, adverse drug interactions, drug-food interactions, and antimicrobial resistance. This study assessed the situation of medication misuse amongst university undergraduates in Nigeria. Medication misuse is influenced by different factors and is found in association with vices and risky sexual behaviours, particularly in adolescents and young adults. The persuasive communication model has found relevance in behavioral health changes and is proposed by this study to build sustainable, positive change in attitudes towards medication misuse in institutions of higher learning. The University of Lagos, located in Southwestern Nigeria, served as the study setting.
Methods
A descriptive research design, employing one-on-one in-depth interviews, was used to collect data from 20 respondents. Data saturation was reached at the 13th participant. Data was analysed using thematic analysis.
Results:
The study revealed the factors associated with medication misuse on the university campus: age, family income, socioeconomic status, gender, peer influence, and ease of access to medications. Based on findings, the use of a persuasive communication model is recommended as a theoretical approach over the Yale Attitude Change Model and Theory of Planned Behaviour, to mitigate medication misuse among university students is discussed. The use of Chamomile tea, a herbal tea, which has been investigated for its potential anxiolytic effects is perceived to be a better alternative rather than medication misuse. A focus on increased sensitization by university management to the dangers of medication misuse and corresponding responsible action by students is recommended. This study contributes to the call for targeted interventions on university campuses aimed at discouraging medication misuse among university students as well as sustaining the positive impact on students’ health and lifestyle.