L’automédication chez le malade cancéreux : expérience du service oncologie médicale CLCC Sétif

Abstract

Introduction: Nowadays, an increase in the use of self-medication, a practice that raises serious concerns when adopted by cancer patients,is observed. The main issue is the fact that these latter are often treated using highly specific medical protocols. Thus, the interaction between self-prescribed medications and oncological treatments can lead to serious side effects, impacting the effectiveness of cancer therapies and compromising the patient's overall prognosis. Materials and Method: The study at hand is of cross-sectional nature. It implemented a questionnaire administered to a sample of cancer patients undergoing treatment at the level of the CAC Sétif medical oncology department, over a period of one month (January 1 - March 31, 2023).The objective was to assess the prevalence of self-medication in these patients. Results: The study showed that 31.40% of patients resort to self-medication.Reasons: for 11.11% reducing the side effects of chemotherapy, and for the remaining 88.89%, headaches were the most prevalent cause. The most commonly used medications: 39.40% analgesics; 24.24% NSAIDs, and 24.24% antibiotics. The majority of the patients always check the information provided in the prescription (70.38%).Side effects of self-medication: 18. 52%; (33.33%) of patients choose the dose they deem appropriate based on their past experiences, on the information in the package insert, or onthe advice provided by the doctor or pharmacist. Moreover, 77.78% of patients do not change the dose, and 81.48% of them stop taking the drug once the symptoms disappear. Discussion and conclusion: The results of the current research study highlighted the need to raise cancer patients’ awarenessto the risks of self-medication and to encourage more responsible use of drugs. Furthermore, healthcare professionals shouldtake an active role in providing clear and accessible information to patients, helping them understand interactions betweenspecific cancer medicines and encouraging them to communicate openly about their use of self-medication.