Analgesic Use Behaviors and Associated Factors among High School Students

Abstract: Over-the-counter analgesics are common in adolescents, yet overdosing, paracetamol duplication, and prolonged NSAID use can cause preventable harm. Methods: A cross-sectional online survey (sampling, n = 200) assessed analgesic use, knowledge, attitudes, label literacy, information sources, and home medicine practices. Results: In the past 3 months, 70.0% self-medicated; among users, paracetamol was most used (80.0%), followed by ibuprofen (38.6%). Main indications were headache (57.1%), menstrual pain (45.7%), and sports pain (37.1%). Medicines were sourced from home cabinets (65.0%) and pharmacies (51.4%). Label engagement was moderate-to-high (read every/often 66.4%; follow directions always/mostly 80.8%). Key risks persisted: paracetamol duplication (17.1%) and NSAIDs > 3 days without advice (12.1%). Knowledge and label literacy were generally strong (no overdosing 87.0%; read active ingredient/warnings/expiry 93.0%; identify active ingredient 73.0%; read expiry 86.0%). Nearly half reported disorganized or rarely checked home medicine cabinets (43.0%). Conclusions: Self-medication is common and largely informed, yet safety gaps remain—especially paracetamol duplication and prolonged NSAID use. School-based label-literacy education, pharmacist access, and “safe home medicine cabinet” practices are recommended. Keywords: adolescents, analgesics, paracetamol duplication, NSAIDs, label literacy, self-medication. Title: Analgesic Use Behaviors and Associated Factors among High School Students Author: Supisara Kanjanabatr International Journal of Healthcare Sciences ISSN 2348-5728 (Online) Vol. 13, Issue 1, April 2025 - September 2025 Page No: 690-696 Research Publish Journals Website: www.researchpublish.com Published Date: 25-September-2025 DOI: https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.17198277 Paper Download Link (Source) https://www.researchpublish.com/papers/analgesic-use-behaviors-and-associated-factors-among-high-school-students