SELF-MEDICATION AMONG INDIVIDUALS ATTENDING A UNIVERSITY DENTAL CLINIC IN SANTIAGO, CHILE, 2022

Abstract

Objetive: To identify the determinants of self-medication for dental reasons among individuals treated at a dental clinic in Santiago, Chile, 2022. Materials and Methods: A quantitative, observational, and cross-sectional study was conducted. The sample consisted of individuals aged 18 to 75 years, residents of the Metropolitan Region, who were treated at the dental clinic of Universidad Andrés Bello in Santiago, and who had self-medicated for dental reasons within the past six months. Results: Among the 206 participants, 64.6% reported having self-medicated for dental reasons one to three times within the past six months. Acetaminophen was reported as the first-choice analgesic for 23.3% of the subjects, and 63.6% purchased their medications at pharmacies without a prior prescription. In 65.5% of cases, family and/or friends recommended self-medication as a solution for dental pain. Additionally, 31.6% of participants recognized the risk of poisoning or overdosing as a potential negative outcome. Conclusion: This research shows a high prevalence of self-medication among the subjects evaluated. The irrational use of medications was identified as a common practice, and although participants consider it risky, it remains their first option to relieve symptoms. These findings highlight the need to educate and raise awareness among the population about the risks of self-medication.