Self-medicating with anxiety drugs: knowledge, attitudes, and practices among saudi arabia population

Abstract

Anas Ali Alhur, Haya Alshahrani, Futoon Alsultan, Malak Alsultan, Abdulelah Alhuthayl, Nawaf Alkhateeb, Lama Hamed, Rami Alharthi, Maha Alhamzani, Raghad Alshehri, Wjood Abuajmah, Manal Assiri, Asal Alnemr, Hanan Alqahtani, Abdulmjeed Alshahrani

Background: The self-medication of anxiety drugs has emerged as a critical public health issue globally, particularly in regions where access to mental health services is limited. Within Saudi Arabia, the unsupervised use of these medications has become increasingly prevalent, presenting risks such as dependency, adverse reactions, and improper management of mental health conditions. Objectives: This research aims to explore the knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to the self-medication of anxiety drugs among Saudi Arabia's population. The study assesses public awareness levels, examines prevailing attitudes, and identifies common practices. It also proposes actionable public health interventions to address the identified gaps. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative approach was adopted, surveying 2,023 randomly selected participants. Data collection involved an online questionnaire encompassing demographics, awareness levels, behaviors surrounding self-medication, and sources of medications. The data were analyzed using SPSS (version 26), employing descriptive statistics, chi-square tests, cluster analysis, and logistic regression. Results: The results indicate that 89.9% of participants recognized anxiety medications, with Diazepam being the most commonly identified. However, 40.5% perceived these drugs as safe for use without a prescription. Notably, 29.8% engaged in self-medication, predominantly sourcing drugs from pharmacies without prescriptions (24.7%). Additionally, 35.6% of those who self-medicated experienced adverse effects. Cluster analysis revealed three distinct groups based on knowledge and attitudes, offering insight into tailored interventions. Conclusions: The findings underscore significant gaps in public knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding the self-medication of anxiety drugs in Saudi Arabia. Recommendations include implementing targeted educational campaigns, enhancing prescription regulations, and expanding access to mental health services. Future research should focus on the cultural and socioeconomic determinants driving these behaviors.