Parental patterns of use of over the counter analgesics in children

Garvey, Aisling A.; Hawkes, Colin P.; Ryan, C.; Kelly, M.

Parental patterns of use of over the counter analgesics in children

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Date

2013-05

Authors

Garvey, Aisling A.

Hawkes, Colin P.

Ryan, C.

Kelly, M.

Publisher

Irish Medical Organisation

Abstract

Over-The-Counter Analgesics (OTCA) account for over a fifth of Irish pharmacy sales. Little is known about patterns of use, specifically in children. This study investigated parents use of OTCAs in children. A questionnaire exploring use of OTCAs and knowledge of side-effects was distributed to guardians of children attending three GP surgeries in South of Ireland from June-September 2010. The questionnaire was completed by 183 parents (response rate 95%). Many respondents (n=121, 66.1%) were using analgesics when not required or using an inappropriate analgesic for a child symptom. Private patients demonstrated better use (n=31, 40%) than those with Medical Cards (n=18, 22.5%) (p=0.016). Identification of potential side-effects was poor, with drowsiness (n=88, 49%), rash (n=39, 22%) and nausea (n=32, 18%) listed as potential side-effects. Inappropriate use of OTCAs is prevalent in Irish children. Parents need more information and guidance on their use.

Keywords

Over-the-counter analgesics , Irish children

Citation

Garvey, A., Hawkes, C. P., Ryan, C. and Kelly, M. (2013) 'Parental patterns of use of over the counter analgesics in children', Irish Medical Journal, 106(5), pp. 139-141. Available at: http://archive.imj.ie/ViewArticleDetails.aspx?ArticleID=10912 (Accessed: 30 November 2021)