Patterns of Analgesic Use and Pain Management Among Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54361/LJMR.19.2.14Keywords:
Analgesics, pain management, self-medication, NSAIDs, public health awarenessAbstract
Background: People's quality of life is greatly impacted by pain, a frequent health issue. Analgesics, such as opioids, paracetamol, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (NSAIDs), are commonly used to treat pain. Self-medication, ignorance of adverse effects, and inappropriate use, however, continue to be public health issues. The objective of the study: Evaluate the kinds, prevalence, and management of pain in adults, including the use of medicines, knowledge of possible adverse effects, and the role of medical professionals in advising patients on the use of analgesics. Methods: From March 1 to March 31, 2025, 100 adults aged 30 and older participated in a descriptive cross-sectional survey. A standardised questionnaire including demographics, pain experience, analgesic use, side effects, and awareness was used to gather data. Analysis of the replies was done using descriptive statistics. Result: 75% of the participants said they had experienced pain in the previous month, with headaches, menstrual pain, and back pain being the most prevalent. Analgesics were used by almost 66% of people, mostly diclofenac and paracetamol (50% each), with ibuprofen (40%). Sixty-three percent of users took painkillers occasionally, and 12 percent used them every day. Fifteen percent of consumers experienced adverse effects. 71% were aware of possible health hazards, such as liver and kidney damage, but 61% sought medical advice. The study's conclusion highlights how common pain is in adults and how often they take analgesics. A sizable percentage of participants were ignorant, despite the fact that the majority showed responsible medicine use and risk knowledge.
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