SELF-MEDICATION PRACTICES AND AWARENESS OF SAFE MEDICINE USE AMONG SCHOOL STUDENTS

Safe medicine use is an important public health concern, especially among adolescents who increasingly make independent decisions about their health. This study assessed school students awareness of medicine labels, dosage instructions, side effects, and medicine-related risks. Guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior, it examined how knowledge and beliefs may influence responsible medicine use. A descriptive, cross-sectional survey was conducted among 51 school students using a structured questionnaire containing demographic items and ten awareness statements measured on a five-point Likert scale. Data were analysed using frequencies, percentages, means, and standard deviations. The findings indicate that most students have a good understanding of safe medicine practices. However, moderate or low awareness among some respondents highlights the need for health education. Schools, parents, and healthcare professionals should work together to improve medicine literacy through awareness programmes, practical guidance, and age-appropriate educational initiatives that promote safer and more responsible medicine-use practices among adolescents.