Comparative trends in the usage of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs: Self-administration versus prescription

Background: Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) stand as a fundamental element in global pain management and rank among the most frequently utilized pharmaceuticals. These drugs, prevalent in both prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) forms, make up around 5% of the total prescribed medications worldwide. Their prolonged use can lead to complications, underscoring the crucial role of pharmacists in guiding their limited and time-bound usage. Objectives: A cross-sectional study was conducted to assess and contrast the usage trends of NSAIDs through self-administration versus prescription-based consumption. Materials and Methods: In the Katraj district of Pune, Maharashtra, a cross-sectional study was conducted at two community pharmacies within the local area. Upon meeting specific criteria and securing consent, information was gathered through a standardized self-filled questionnaire in the language preferred by the participants. The questionnaire encompassed four segments: gathering sociodemographic information, assessing participants’ knowledge regarding NSAID usage, understanding the reasons behind their drug purchase, and an observational assessment of pharmacists’ practices in dispensing medications. Results: Out of the 294 respondents, the female participants constituted 55.78%. A majority of individuals, around 66.66%, chose self-medication. The primary motive behind purchasing NSAIDs was predominantly for alleviating pain, representing 36.73% of respondents. Nearly half of the participants, approximately 48.97%, possessed knowledge about the risks and benefits of NSAID consumption. Surprisingly, an overwhelming 95.57% of participants reported inadequate guidance from their local pharmacist when purchasing NSAIDs. Conclusion: The prevalence of self-medication surpassed the usage of prescribed medications due to insufficient participation of pharmacists in dispensing. There is a crucial need to prioritize the role of community pharmacists by imparting information on proper medication administration and advocating for their active clinical engagement in patients’ lives.