Use of over-the-counter supplements, sleep aids, and analgesic medicines in rheumatology: results of a cross-sectional survey

Abstract

Abstract Objectives Pain, fatigue, and sleep are common symptoms in patients with Rheumatic and Musculoskeletal diseases (RMDs) that may prompt the use of over-the-counter (OTC) supplements, sleep aids, and analgesics as self-management strategies. This study evaluated the prevalence of OTC supplements, sleep aids, pain relievers and the financial burden associated with their use in rheumatology. Methods A web-based survey developed with patients, was administered in rheumatology clinics in an English hospital. Participants shared demographic information and detailed their use of OTC supplements, sleep aids, and pain relief in the past week. The data was analysed using descriptive statistics and logistic regression models to identify influencing factors. Results In total 876 people consented to participate in the survey. Over half of patients (54.5%) reported daily supplement intake, typically spending £10/month (IQR 5-20), ranging up to £200 per month. The most commonly administered supplements were vitamin D, multivitamins, vitamin C, vitamin B/B complex, Omega 3/6 supplements, with multiple overlaps. Prescription, OTC, or non-prescription pain relief was reported by 82% of respondents, with sleep aids being used by 13%. Of the 327 patients who took NSAIDs, 165 (50.4%) also reported taking OTC supplements, while among the 131 patients using opioids (20.5%), 66 (50.3%) reported supplement use, some of which have documented interactions. Conclusion The administration of OTC supplements, pain relief, and sleep aids is common in patients with RMDs. Health care professionals should be encouraged to proactively ask about these during consultations especially from a drug safety perspective, but also to provide timely, reliable advice about such strategies that may be sought by patients.