Optimizing NSAID Therapy in Elderly with Osteoarthritis: A Case Study from a Primary Care Setting in Indonesia

Abstract

Osteoarthritis (OA) is a degenerative disease often found in the elderly population. This disease is characterized by joint cartilage damage that causes pain and disability. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are one of the commonly used pharmacological therapies to manage pain in OA patients. However, the use of NSAIDs in the elderly requires special attention due to the risk of side effects, including gastrointestinal, cardiovascular and renal disorders. This study aimed to assess the pattern of NSAID use in elderly OA patients at the Lasi Community Health Center. This study used a descriptive observational method with prospective data from 111 patients during March-May 2019. The results showed that ibuprofen was the most commonly used NSAID (19.8%), followed by diclofenac (10.8%). Most patients received doses according to standard therapy. However, there were some cases of mild side effects such as dyspepsia (3.6%) and constipation (2.7%). This study emphasizes the importance of close monitoring of NSAID use in the elderly to optimize therapy and minimize the risk of side effects.