Dentists knowledge about over the counter-NSAIDs: An emerging need for NSAID-avoidance education

ABSTRACT

Objectives of the study Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) belong to a group of drugs used in themanagement of pain. The aim of this study is to assess dentists’ knowledge of NSAIDs risks and to determine the mostprescribed NSAIDs by dentists.Materials and Methods: We collected information concerning the dentists’ knowledge of NSAIDs use and adverseeffects. A questionnaire consisting of 22 questions was distributed to 123 Albanian dentists reached in different dentalclinics, out of which only 87 agreed to participate. Only 70.73% of the distributed questionnaires were completed.Results: Respondents demonstrated poor knowledge of NSAIDs. Most of the respondents did not respond correctlyto the questions with 39.08% of incorrect answers regarding the implications of NSAIDs in elderly patients and only3.44% responded correctly to the contraindication of NSAIDs. The most common prescriptions were ketoprofen,ibuprofen, followed by ketorolac, aspirin, and diclofenac.Conclusions: Dentists who participated in the survey have limited knowledge of NSAIDs use, contraindication, andsafety limitation which can affect patients’ safety and well-being. Dentists should pay particular attention to informingpatients on NSAIDs use and should also keep updated on NSAIDs, through continuing education programs.