Assessment of the Rational Use of Over the Counter Analgesics in the Population of District Shaheed Benazirabad Sindh, Pakistan

This cross-sectional descriptive study was held in the District Shaheed Benazirabad during February to December 2018. A total of 400 samples of aged between 16-60 years were selected by convenience sampling and data were analyzed through SPSS and Microsoft excel. Multiple logistic regression was also performed to assess results. Among 400 (100%) participants, there were 238 (59.5%) males and 162 (40.5%) females; 225 (56.2%) participants were using different OTC analgesics without prescription and daily consumption of was found among the 215 (53.7%) participants. Source of information for OTC analgesics use was friend or relatives for 112 (28.0%) participants, media 84 (21.0%), doctor or physician about 1/3rd 133 (33.3%), pharmacist 6 (1.5%), nurse 16 (4.0%), and dispenser 49 (12.3%). Interestingly, 280 (70.0%) participants were unaware regarding the dose, indications, contraindications, side effects and interactions of OTC analgesics. Mandatory steps for increase in awareness should be taken for irrational use.