Objective:

To determine the prevalence and consumption patterns that influence the automation of the students of the Universidad del Magdalena.

Methods

The study corresponds to a descriptive cross-sectional and quantitative approach investigation; the sample was determined by conglomerates, made up of 312 active students enrolled in undergraduate studies at the Universidad del Magdalena the city of the Santa Marta.

Results:

The practice of self-medication was reflected in 97%; the reasons for which the students self-medicate are related to the appearance of symptoms stories, such as pain and flu-like symptoms, which are treated from the consumption at analgesic, anti-inflammatory drugs with prevalence of 84,26%.The main reason for self-medication is related to the mildness of the symptoms; the council of relatives in 46,87% reflects their source of information; there is influence by advertising especially television and internet; finally 71% are aware of the consequences of self -medication.

Conclusions

The practice of self-medication in the University population is high; influencing factors are related to the appearance of symptoms the advice of relatives, the influence of advertising the mildness of symptoms and lack of the time to visit the doctor.

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