Digital Platform as a Source for Self-Medication: The Influence of Educational Factors

Abstract

Background: The growing use of digital platforms has transformed health information access and contributed to the global trend of self-medication. When making healthcare decisions, people in Malaysia, where internet usage is exceptionally high, frequently turn to online resources. This study investigates how self-medication behaviours motivated by information from digital platforms and social media are influenced by educational background.Materials and Methods: From January to May 2025, 324 Malaysian people participated in a cross-sectional study that used a structured, self-administered online questionnaire disseminated over social media. Information was gathered about social media use, self-medication behaviours, and demographic traits. SPSS was used to conduct statistical studies, such as ANOVA, logistic regression, and chi-square testing.Results: Google was the most popular source of health information among the respondents, who used digital platforms in 79.6% of cases. Those with college degrees were substantially more likely than those with less education to self-medicate via Internet content (p=0.005, OR=0.302). Those with less education were more likely to take drugs to control their weight and skin conditions. Furthermore, 13% reported negative side effects from self-medication.Conclusion: Education significantly influences self-medication behaviour based on digital health information. While those with higher education engage more in online-based self-care, individuals with lower education levels are more prone to potentially unsafe practices. Enhancing digital health literacy is crucial for promoting safe self-medication across all educational backgrounds.

Keywords: Digital platforms; Education; Online health information; Self-medication; and Social media