From relief to resistance: implications of self-medication practice for malaria elimination in India

Abstract

The self-medication practices in India may pose challenges to malaria elimination efforts. While individuals often seek immediate relief from symptoms, the indiscriminate use of antimalarial medications can lead to increased resistance among malaria parasites. This study highlights the implications of self-medication on public health, exploring their impact on malaria elimination. Public awareness campaigns highlighting the risks of self-treatment, necessity of professional medical consultation and the need for malaria diagnosis prior to initiating treatment should be carried out. Addressing self-treatment practices will improve patient outcomes, mitigate the development of drug resistance in parasites and contribute to the goal of a malaria-free India.

Keywords: India; antimalarials; drug resistance; malaria elimination; public health; self-medication.