Knowledge and Use of Over the Counter Analgesics among Medical and Nonmedical Students of the University of Lagos

Abstract

Background: Use of analgesics for pain alleviation is common. Analgesics are widely available and are generally perceived to be safe. Studies evaluating students’ use of analgesics elsewhere exists, but limited data is available about knowledge and use in Nigeria. Objectives: To assess knowledge and use of over the counter (OTC) analgesics among undergraduate students of the University of Lagos. Method: The study was carried out among medical and nonmedical undergraduate students of the University of Lagos. Data was collected using a semi-structured, self-administered questionnaire which consisted of 35 close-ended questions relating to use and knowledge about analgesics. Knowledge was assessed using a set of seven questions. Correct scores were summed up and categorized as poor or good. Frequencies, percentages and statistical inferences were done using SPSS version 20.0 Results: About 405 students responded with about two-thirds reporting using analgesics, paracetamol being the most commonly used. The most common indications for use were headache, general body pain and menstrual pain. Respondents revealed that playing an active role in their health (28.2%) and avoid long waiting hours at the clinic (25.4%) were the major reasons for analgesic use. Even though medical students had a higher average score of knowledge than nonmedical students (2.71 vs. 1.60; χ2= 3.36: p = 0.0445), their knowledge was still poor. Conclusion: OTC analgesic use is prevalent among students and is attributed to their need to play an active role in their health and avoid long waiting times at the clinic. Both medical and non-medical students’ knowledge about analgesics was poor.