Assessment Of Pattern Of Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS) Use Among Residents Of A North Central Nigerian CityAssessment Of Pattern Of Non-steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS) Use Among Residents Of A North Central Nigerian City

Abstract

Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly used in the treatment of pains. Self-medication is a common practice all over the world. Unwanted effects from use of this class of medication could pose health challenges. This study evaluated the prevalence and pattern of inappropriate use of NSAIDs among Ilorin residents and identified factors that influence the pattern of use. Survey of 630 residents of Ilorin selected using systematic random sampling was done with administration of semi-structured questionnaires. Data obtained were analyzed and presented in the form of texts, frequency tables and charts.Inferential statistics was done using logistic regression and chi square. p-values less than 0.05 were considered statistically significant. The most important reason why residents used NSAIDs was body pain (54.1%), followed by headache (39.5%). The prevalence of inappropriate use of NSAIDs was 34.3% and self -medication accounted for 21.1%. Most residents (65.9%) were not aware of the side effects of NSAIDs. Lack of adequate knowledge in understanding written instructions on the drug information sheet was the most important reason why instructions were not followed. Level of education significantly influenced respondents level of awareness of NSAID’s side effects (p=0.016). There was also significant association between frequency of NSAIDs use and level of pain relief by the respondents (p=0.003). Occupation of the respondents significantly affected their level of self-medication (p=0.001) whereas there was no gender difference in the respondents level of inappropriate use of NSAIDs. There was high prevalence use of NSAIDs among the residents with similar proportion of male to female residents. The most widely used NSAID was ibuprofen. Educational status, occupation and prior knowledge of medication use contributed to inappropriate use of NSAIDs.

Key words: NSAIDs, Ilorin, ibuprofen, self- medication.