Self-medication worsening liver disease crisis, experts warn Nigerians

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Nigeria Flag

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By Chioma Obinna

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Medical experts have raised the alarm over the growing culture of self-medication in Nigeria, warning that the dangerous practice is fueling liver-related diseases and putting millions at risk of irreversible organ damage.

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The experts said indiscriminate use of painkillers, antibiotics and herbal mixtures, often without proper diagnosis or medical supervision has become a silent but serious public health threat.

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The experts spoke during a webinar titled: “The Hidden Costs of Self-Medication on Liver Health,” organised by SYNLAB Nigeria as part of its Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives aimed at promoting preventive healthcare and health awareness.

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Speaking at the event, Consultant Physician, Gastroenterologist and Hepatologist, Dr. Ganiyat Kikelomo Oyeleke, said the liver remains one of the most vulnerable organs to damage from drug misuse because of its central role in detoxification and metabolism.

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“The liver performs several critical functions in the body, including breaking down drugs and toxins. This makes it particularly susceptible to injury when medications are abused or taken wrongly,” she said.

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Oyeleke attributed the rising trend of self-medication in Nigeria to economic hardship, easy access to over-the-counter drugs and deep-rooted cultural practices.

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According to her, many Nigerians resort to self-prescription due to the cost of healthcare, often taking medications in dangerous combinations or excessive doses.

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“The misuse of common drugs such as painkillers, antibiotics and herbal supplements can cause drug-induced liver injury, especially when mixed with alcohol or other medications,” she warned.

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She also cautioned against the widespread assumption that herbal remedies are harmless.

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“Natural does not always mean safe. Many herbal mixtures contain substances that can seriously damage the liver,” Oyeleke added.

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She explained that one of the biggest dangers of liver disease is that it often progresses silently, with symptoms appearing only when the damage has become severe.

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She urged Nigerians to avoid unnecessary drug use, reduce alcohol intake, get vaccinated against hepatitis where necessary, and seek medical attention when symptoms persist.

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Also speaking, Consultant Chemical Pathologist, Dr. Olusola Omoyele, stressed the importance of preventive testing and early diagnosis in safeguarding liver health.

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According to her, routine liver function tests and screening can help detect abnormalities early and improve treatment outcomes.

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“People who frequently self-medicate, use herbal products, abuse alcohol or have underlying health conditions are at higher risk and should undergo regular screening,” she said.

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Omoyele, however, warned that a normal liver function test does not always mean the liver is healthy.

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“Normal results do not completely rule out liver disease. That is why comprehensive evaluation by qualified professionals is important,” she explained.

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The experts unanimously stressed that early intervention remains key, noting that many liver conditions become harder to treat when detected late.

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The webinar, streamed live on YouTube, forms part of the organisation’s efforts to deepen health education and encourage Nigerians to embrace preventive healthcare as a first line of defence against chronic diseases.

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