Inappropriate use of beta-blockers among medical and dental students at King Saud University, Riyadh.

Abstract

Self-medication and inappropriate beta-blocker use have been commonly reported among students. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of inappropriate self-prescription of beta-blockers among medical and dental students. We conducted a cross-sectional study using a validated self-administered questionnaire distributed via online Google document to all undergraduate medical and dental students, including interns, of King Saud University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Out of 1,240 emails sent, 885 students (627 [70.8%] medical students and 258 [59.2%] dental students) responded to the survey (response rate, 71.4%). Beta-blockers were used by 198 students (22.4%) during their college years, of which 147 (16.6%) used it ≤5 times. The most common reason of using beta-blockers was to relieve stress and anxiety. The most common sources of information for use were their colleagues/fellow students. Self-prescribed beta-blockers were used by 123 students (13.9%). The usual dose consumed was 20 mg in 84 students (9.5%), while 15 (1.7%) experienced side effects. Although male students used beta-blockers more than females, females used beta-blockers at significantly higher doses (>20 mg). Medical students consumed more beta-blockers than dental students did (33.7% versus 0%, <i>P</i> = 0.001). Students in their senior years continued self-prescription and beta-blocker use longer than their juniors. Continued use was associated with their current academic level, who prescribed the drug, their usual dose, and awareness of complications. Two in ten students inappropriately used beta-blockers to relieve their anxiety and stress during examinations, and most of them were self-prescribed.