Factors associated with medication amounts considered excessive among university students: a questionnaire survey of pharmacy students and those in non-medical schools

Abstract

Abstract Background Better insight and knowledge on factors associated with perception of medication numbers and amounts would contribute greatly to our current understanding of patient psychological response regarding taking medications, and would allow us to improve drug administration support and adherence. This study explored associations between attitudes toward medication dosage in a questionnaire survey that examined demographic characteristics, the number of tablets and types of prescription medications considered excessive by participants, current medication and supplement use, personal experiences with medications, and perceptions surrounding medications. Methods An original anonymous questionnaire was used for this survey. A total of 934 university students completed and returned surveys with no missing data. Results Mean values ± standard deviation for excessive thresholds for tablets and types of medications reported by all participants were 4.21 ± 1.63 tablets and 4.00 ± 1.25 medications, respectively. The number of tablets considered excessive was analyzed using a multiple regression model, which accounted for the variance (model-adjusted R 2 = 0.095, p 0.094, p 0.084, p < 0.01). Conclusions Individual attitudes toward medication dosage are influenced by individual factors. Thus, patients should be provided with personalized advice when they receive medication instructions.

Keywords

• Attitude toward medicine dosage
• Personalized service
• Medication