NSAIDs pattern of use in Nasiriya City-South of Iraq

Abstract

Background: NSAIDs are group of drugs that was used for their properties as analgesic, antipyretic and anti-inflammatory and this group was divided into 2 groups according to their selectivity towards enzyme called COX as this enzyme have two isomers and these two groups named selective and non-selective COXII inhibitors. NSAIDs are include more than 20 agents that differs in their affinity toward this enzyme and thus differ in their analgesic, antipyretic, anti-inflammatory and adverse effects.1 Aim: Aim of this current study is to validate non-steroidal inti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) pattern selection in Nasiriya city- South of Iraq. Method: 82 physicians were asked about the Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs they prescribe for their patients, the dose, dosage form, dose frequency, concomitant drugs (objective from administration of these drugs with NSAIDs) and adverse effect. The study period was extended from January 2019 till July 2019. Results: The most prescribed NSAIDs was found Ibuprofen (32.9%) and Diclofenac sodium (28.1%) and the other NSAIDs including Mefenamic acid and others account for (39%) and in term the investigation of dosage form we found that the oral dosage form is the more dominant. Conclusion: We find out, Ibuprofen and Diclofenac sodium is suitable for self-medication with regards to its relatively wide spectrum of indication, good tolerance and safety. Overall, it has been rated respectively as the most prescribed conventional NSAIDs.