Assessing Community Knowledge and Usage Patterns of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) in Zawia City: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Authors

  • Mabrooukah ishrayhah pharmacology department at the faculty of pharmacy, Zawia university Author
  • Hatim ishrayhah High Institute of Agricultural Technology- Gheran Author
  • Maha al-hadi Abd-alhafid pharmacology department at the faculty of pharmacy, Zawia university Author
  • Noha al-Hadi Abd-alhafid pharmacology department at the faculty of pharmacy, Zawia university Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.54361/LJMR.191.1.27

Keywords:

NSAIDs, knowledge, attitude, awareness,, side effects, overuse, safety perceptions

Abstract

Background: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most commonly used medications worldwide, known for their effectiveness in relieving pain and reducing inflammation. This study aims to assess the patterns of NSAID usage and the level of awareness regarding their benefits and potential side effects among the general public of Zawia city. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted over a period of three months from June 2024 through August 2024 in Zawia city, Libya, where a self-administered questionnaire was used. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data using the statistical package for the social sciences (SPSS V27). Result: The study involved 290 participants, mostly female (78.6%) and aged between 20-30 years (47.2%). A majority held a bachelor’s degree (61.4%) and were employed (58.6%). The primary reasons for NSAID use were headaches and colds (42.4%), followed by toothaches (35.5%). Most recommendations came from doctors (54.1%) and pharmacists (26.9%). 58.3% of respondents believed NSAIDs were not safe, and 67.6% thought they were overused. 52.8% were unaware of cardiovascular risks, and 59% were uncertain about the safety of NSAIDs during pregnancy. 83.8% believed that not all NSAIDs should be sold without a prescription. Conclusion: Despite high usage, most respondents perceive NSAIDs as potentially unsafe and overused, indicating a disconnect between awareness and behaviour.

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References

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Published

01-01-2025

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How to Cite

1.
ishrayhah M, ishrayhah H, Abd-alhafid M, Abd-alhafid N. Assessing Community Knowledge and Usage Patterns of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) in Zawia City: A Cross-Sectional Study. LJMR [Internet]. 2025 Jan. 1 [cited 2025 May 6];19(1):183-92. Available from: https://ljmr.ly/index.php/ljmr/article/view/340

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