Abstract
Introduction: In India, though studies regarding NSAIDs were conducted, prevalence of its use and its impact on general health is largely lacking. As the prevalence of unmonitored analgesic and NSAID use is rising, it is imperative to assess the pattern of NSAID use and its associated factors. Materials and Methods: This is a cross sectional, questionnaire-based survey conducted over a period of 6 months in the rural population of Kerala, India. The data was collected with the aid of a Google form. All the data were documented and analysed based on a standard protocol. Results: The prevalence of NSAID use among the 608 participants was found to be 43.4%. The prevalence of regular NSAID use was found to be 17.43%. It was found that females used NSAIDs more than the males (49.4%). Regular NSAID use was also found to be higher in thefemale population (19.9%). Diclofenac (27.6%) and mefenamic acid (24.2%) were the most commonly used NSAIDs. Headache was the major indication (29.9%) for which these drugs were taken. Conclusion: The study analysed the pattern of NSAID use among the rural population of Kerala. The results obtained from the study is indicating to the negligent use of NSAIDs despite being aware of the possible adverse outcomes of its use by the population. This shows that the knowledge about the safe use of NSAIDs is yet to be inculcated in the society.
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