EFFECTS OF CHRONIC NON-STEROIDAL ANTI-INFLAMMATORY DRUGS USE AMONG YOUNG FEMALE ADULTS IN NIGERIA

Background: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most commonly used medications for the relief of pain and inflammation, particularly among young female adults experiencing dysmenorrhea and other recurrent painful conditions. Despite their therapeutic benefits, chronic and unsupervised use of NSAIDs has been associated with several adverse effects involving the gastrointestinal, renal, cardiovascular and hematological parameters. Methods: This review critically appraised selected studies and peer-reviewed literatures published on epidemiological data on the effects of chronic NSAID uses among young female adults in Nigeria, and the laboratory investigations used in monitoring affected individuals. The review examined the classification and mechanism of action of NSAIDs, highlighting the differences between non-selective and COX-2 selective agents. Results: The findings reveal that prolonged NSAID uses among young female adults impose severe adverse effects on the hematological parameters, particularly impairment of platelet count, platelet aggregation, and chronic blood loss. Common clinical manifestations such as fatigue, epigastric pain, dizziness and gastrointestinal bleeding were noted alongside alterations in laboratory investigations results including hemoglobin estimation, packed cell volume (PCV), stool occult blood testing, renal function tests, platelet count and platelet function tests. Conclusions: The public health implications of NSAID misuse in Nigeria, especially the widespread practice of self-medication and over-the-counter drug access by young female adults, if remains unregulated will assumed an epidemic proportion. Preventive and control measures such as health education, proper prescription practices, patient monitoring and the use of safer alternatives for pain management have to be advocated. Chronic NSAID uses among the young female adults may result in significant health complications if not properly monitored. Increased awareness, rational drug use and appropriate laboratory evaluation are essential in reducing NSAID-related morbidity among young female adults in Nigeria.