RESUMEN
The frequency of administration of sedatives and hypnotics has been discussed. The questionnaire filled by female volunteers of different age groups revealed that these drugs were used illegally for sedation purposes and are administered without any prescription. A total number of 100 self reporting questions were distributed to students of different age group. The percentage of self-administrated hypnotics and sedatives were high last year. The drugs often used for common symptoms were seasonal flu followed by fever, pain and discomfort. Antihistamines are usually self-administered at night as sleep aids. The patients' selection criteria of drugs were mostly without any prescriptions. They preferred cheaper, less toxic and more effective drug. Those medicines which were effective in their past experiences or easier to get after the consultation with the pharmacist were preferred. The self medications of these sedatives and hypnotics resulted in adverse effects in almost all the patients. These results were stomach upsets, headaches, and severe dizziness and addiction. The patients changed the drugs after experiencing the adverse effects. Most of the patients found it very relaxing and acceptable practice to take the drugs without any guidance or consultation. However, sedatives and hypnotics are not good for health so they should be prohibited as self medication