The prevalence of inappropriate use of nsaids by cardiovascular patients for musculoskeletal disorders

Abstract

A prospective observational analysis of the consumption of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)/paracetamol by cardiovascular (CV) patients over a 3-month period was performed. The aim of the study was to evaluate the potential inappropriate use of these drugs by CV patients and to identify the risk profile of the CV patient inclined towards self-medication with these molecules. The data obtained from the questionnaires completed by the respondents were statistically analysed using a SPSS statistical package (version 17.0) software. Our results showed that for both physicians and patients, the improvement of the patient’s symptoms and quality of life prevail over future CV risks. Our results indicate that despite existing warnings from the FDA and EMA, there is still a high percentage of CV patients who use NSAIDs inappropriately, both as self-medication and with medical advice, and the pharmacist must play a more active role in preventing the problems related to the irrational consumption of NSAIDs.