Publication: Assessment of Knowledge, Attitude, Perception, and Practice of the General Public on the Use of Non-Steroidal Anti- Inflammatory Drugs (NSAIDs) in the Community Pharmacy Settings in Selangor, Malaysia
Date
2023-07
Authors
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Publisher
International Medical University
Abstract
Background: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are frequently used for pain,
fever, and inflammation. They are readily accessible over-the-counter (OTC) in community
pharmacies without a prescription. Due to the ease with which NSAIDs can be acquired, selfmedication
with NSAIDs is an increasing concern as it may result in inappropriate use, leading
to drug-related problems and potentially serious adverse effects.
Objective: The main purpose of this study was to assess the general public’s current level of
knowledge, attitude, perception, and practice regarding the use of OTC NSAIDs, to explore
their perspective regarding receiving information on NSAIDs, and also to determine the
relationship between the knowledge, attitude, perception, and practice.
Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among the general public in Selangor who
had self-medicated with oral OTC NSAIDs. A structured, validated questionnaire was
distributed electronically in community pharmacies and via social media platforms. In addition,
a hard copy of the questionnaires was provided for non tech-savvy participants. Respondents
were recruited through convenience sampling. Incomplete responses were excluded. Data was
analysed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS).
Results: A total of 358 respondents completed the survey. Findings suggest that overall, the
general public in Selangor demonstrated good knowledge (70.95%), positive attitude
(PRR=67.88%), and good practice (PRR=58.75%) towards OTC NSAIDs use. However,
perception of NSAID risks was poor (PRR=35.64%), especially related to risks of selfmedicating
and sharing of NSAIDs among friends and family. Age, gender, and education
levels were key determinants affecting knowledge levels. Most respondents (89.39%) showed
a positive perspective towards receiving information on NSAIDs, with 94.14% agreeing that
healthcare professionals (HCPs) should play a direct role in providing such information Statistically significant positive correlations were observed between knowledge-attitude
(r=0.218, p<0.001), knowledge-perception (r=0.294, p<0.001), knowledge-practice (r=0.294,
p<0.001), attitude-perception (r=0.270, p<0.001), attitude-practice (r=0.585, p<0.001) and
perception-practice (r=0.385, p<0.001).
Conclusion: There were potential gaps and misconceptions identified in certain areas,
particularly regarding the safety aspects of NSAIDs. The study recommends targeted
educational interventions to raise awareness and improve overall medication safety.
Keywords: NSAIDs, painkillers, community pharmacy, health, wellbeing
Description
Keywords
Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal, Pharmacies, Knowledge, Attitude, Perception, Cross-Sectional Studies