Use and abuse of analgesics in Nigeria: a community survey
Agaba, E.I.; Agaba, P.A.; Wigwe, C.M.
Nigerian Journal of Medicine Journal of the National Association of Resident Doctors of Nigeria 13(4): 379-382
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 1115-2613 PMID: 15523865 Document Number: 580328
Chronic consumption of analgesics has been shown to increase the risk of end-stage renal disease. In Nigeria, these drugs are readily available as there is no legislation regulating their consumption. We report the use and abuse of analgesics in a Nigerian population. Using a pre-tested questionnaire, subjects in Zawan B ward in Jos were interviewed regarding analgesic use. Cumulative lifetime dose of drugs consumed was calculated by obtaining the product of the average number of pills consumed in a week by duration of use in years. Analgesic abuse was defined as cumulative lifetime use of >5000 pills. Common analgesics regularly consumed were paracetamol in 58.1%, analgesic mixtures 28.9% and NSAIDS 13%. Common indications for use of these drugs were musculoskeletal pains, headache, fever and stress. Analgesic abuse was present in 22.6% of the respondents. Analgesic abuse is common in Jos, Nigeria. The sale and consumption of these drugs should be restricted by legislation.