Over-the-Counter Analgesic Use Patterns in Appalachian Older Adults, Focusing on Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs

Abstract

IntroductIon: Elderly patients commonly use over-the-counter (OTC) medications to self-manage pain symptoms. Medications such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), acetaminophen, and topical analgesics are readily available and may seem harmless to patients. In the growing population of those 65 years and older, providers need to inquire about OTC medication use due to the increased risk for adverse reactions in this population. Complications related to these medications can be worsened by chronic disease, variable metabolism, and polypharmacy, which become more common in older adults. Methods: A survey was created to determine the prevalence and habits of OTC use in the central Appalachian population, and the potential harms related to provider awareness, chronic disease, and polypharmacy. results: Of surveyed Appalachian seniors (n = 307), 86.3% take OTC medications. Of these, 57.4% report that they do not tell their provider, and 51.3% do not take the medication as directed. Within this population, 19.2% of those on blood thinners, 22.4% of those with hypertension, 34.8% of those with chronic kidney disease, and 30.6% of those with gastrointestinal issues not only use NSAIDs but do not inform their physician nor follow the packaging instructions. dIscussIon: Potential complications of NSAID use related to these medical comorbidities are well known. Providers need to regularly ask their older adult patients about the use of OTC medication to prevent adverse events in this vulnerable population.