[Awareness of 125 patients of the rules for using their non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agent]

A total of 125 inpatients from a rheumatology unit were interviewed to assess their awareness of the rules for using a prescribed NSAID. Two per cent were unaware that they were receiving an NSAID, and 13 per cent and 71 per cent respectively did not know the name or the dosage. Twenty-two per cent admitted excessive intake, and 2 per cent simultaneous intake of two NSAIDs. Some declared that in the absence of adequate improvement they would take another NSAID (17 per cent) or aspirin (26 per cent) simultaneously. Fifty-nine per cent were unaware that aspirin is an anti-inflammatory drug, 3 per cent thought that taking a double dosage on alternate days was safe, and 46 per cent that taking a stronger dose at the beginning of treatment was an efficient and safe procedure. The replies of patients who had read the directions for use (69 per cent) did not differ from those of patients who had not (31 per cent). Fourteen per cent of patients declared that they would not advise their physicians after buying NSAIDs over the counter.