A Questionnaire to Evaluate Undergraduate Students' Consumption and Awareness of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs in Syria
Reem Salloum, Fatima Baddour, Ayat Abbood
Abstract
This study aims to evaluate the level of awareness and consumption of NSAIDs among college undergraduate students in Syria. 60.1% of 309 participants were between 20 and 25 years old. 64.1% were females. 27.6% were medical college students. NSAID consumption was very high among participating students. 94.9% have used these drugs. 65.9% admit taking these medications between 2 to 10 times per month. Most participants prefer to take tablets and capsules (93.8%), especially for relieving pain (84.6%). The first choice of NSAIDs among students was ibuprofen 36.6%, then diclofenac 25.3%. 69.1% have not experienced any side effects as a result of taking NSAIDs. The study findings showed that the level of awareness among participants about NSAIDs was good since about 76% of participants have taken NSAIDs after food. However, most participants used NSAIDs without consulting a doctor or a pharmacist every 8 hours. In addition, some of them mentioned antibiotics as an example of NSAIDs. The college students who participated in this survey have a general knowledge of NSAIDs. Medical college students are more aware of the side effects, safety, and dosage of NSAIDs.