<![CDATA[Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely used for self-medication because of their analgesic, antipyretic, and anti-inflammatory effects; however, inappropriate use may result in adverse drug reactions and other medication-related problems. This study aimed to describe the profile of NSAID self-medication and adverse drug reactions reported by the community in Palembang City. A descriptive observational study with a cross-sectional approach was conducted among 103 community members in Palembang City in 2025. Respondents were selected using purposive sampling, and data were collected using a structured questionnaire covering respondent characteristics, NSAID use patterns, sources of medicines, duration of use, and reported adverse drug reactions. Data were analyzed descriptively using frequencies and percentages. The findings showed that 95.15% of respondents reported NSAID self-medication. Mefenamic acid was the most frequently reported individual NSAID (24.27%), followed by ibuprofen (18.45%), while 35.92% of respondents reported using more than one NSAID. Pharmacies were the main source of NSAIDs (95.15%), and most respondents reported using NSAIDs for ≤3 days (85.44%). A total of 33.98% of respondents reported experiencing at least one symptom potentially associated with NSAID use. Dizziness/headache was the most frequently reported individual complaint (13.59%), followed by nausea/vomiting (8.74%). These findings indicate that NSAID self-medication was common among the respondents, with pharmacies representing the predominant source of medicines and a proportion of respondents reporting adverse reactions. Community pharmacists have an important role in promoting rational NSAID use through appropriate assessment, counselling on dose and duration, identification of potential medication-related risks, education regarding adverse reactions, and referral when necessary.]]>
Copyrights © 2026
