The public's information needs on analgesics: a descriptive study in a drug information centre

Abstract

Abstract Background and objective Pain is a very common symptom, and it is usually managed pharmacologically. In order to achieve successful pharmacotherapy, the patient must be well informed about various drug-related issues. Our aim was to describe inquiries made to a drug information centre (DIC) regarding use of analgesics and pain management. Setting and method We carried out a descriptive retrospective database study in a Finnish drug information centre (Kuopio Medicines Information Centre, KMIC). Content of the analgesic-related inquiries addressed to KMIC during the two-year study period from 1 September 2002 to 31 August 2004 is described. Key findings During the study period, KMIC received 2312 calls related to the use of analgesics and pharmacological pain management. Two thirds of the analgesic users were females and 19% were children aged under 16 years. The 2312 calls comprised 2683 inquiries. The most common topics in these inquiries were interactions (35%), dosing (15%), pain management and enhancement of analgesia (9%) and effects of analgesics (8%). The most commonly discussed analgesics were paracetamol (discussed in 24% of the 2312 calls), ibuprofen (23%), coxibs (15%) and naproxen (14%). The content of the inquiries differed slightly between the drugs in question. Conclusion Overall, the public's information needs were very wide. Thus, generic information provision recommendations suitable for every analgesic user cannot be made. Interactions were a major interest among the public. A desire for confirmation of the correct dosing and scheduling of the analgesic taken was also common, especially before administering the drug to a child. The relatively high proportion of inquiries on how to manage pain, and how to enhance the analgesia provided by prescribed drugs, signals that pain control may not always be optimal. Availability of both drug information and follow-up could work in favour of successful pharmacological pain management.