STUDY OF THE USE OF OVER-THE-COUNTER ANALGESICS AND SAFETY IN ADULTS
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Keywords
OTC analgesics, self-medication, paracetamol, NSAIDs, drug safety, public health
Abstract
Background: Over-the-counter (OTC) analgesics such as paracetamol and NSAIDs are widely used by adults for common ailments like headaches, musculoskeletal pain, and fever.
Objective: To evaluate the patterns of OTC analgesic use and assess the level of safety awareness among adult users.
Methods: This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at Navodaya Medical College Raichur, India. It included 255 adult participants selected through non-probability consecutive sampling. A structured, self-administered questionnaire assessed demographic data, analgesic usage patterns, knowledge of dosage, safety practices, and sources of information.
Results: Paracetamol was the most commonly used analgesic (78.4%), followed by ibuprofen (41.2%). Regular use (at least monthly) was reported by 69.8% of participants. Only 38.4% correctly identified the maximum safe dose of paracetamol, and 27.5% knew the appropriate dosing interval for ibuprofen. Simultaneous use of multiple analgesics with overlapping ingredients was reported by 22.4%. Educational status showed a statistically significant association with awareness of drug safety (p = 0.003). Despite frequent use, only 19.2% sought professional advice before taking analgesics, and most relied on personal experience or informal sources of information.
Conclusion: It is concluded that OTC analgesic use is widespread among adults, but knowledge of proper dosing and safety precautions remains limited. There is a critical need for targeted educational efforts, clearer labeling, and pharmacist-led counseling to promote responsible self-medication and reduce the risk of avoidable adverse effects.
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Neeta T Gavimath
Associate Professor, Department of Pharmacology, Raichur, India
Pavan Kumar K
Professor Department of Psychiatry, Raichur, India