Analgesic Utilization Patterns and Risk of Adverse Effects Among Adults in Tripoli, Libya: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

 Analgesics are among the most commonly used medications 
worldwide, often available without prescription. Irrational use may lead to 
serious health complications. Limited data exist on analgesic use patterns 
in Libya, particularly in Tripoli. 
 
Methods: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 
420 adults residing in Tripoli, Libya, using a structured questionnaire. Data 
covered sociodemographics, analgesic types, reasons for use, prescription 
status, knowledge of adverse effects, and self-reported complications. 
 
Results: Of 420 participants, 88.1% reported using analgesics within the 
past three months. Paracetamol was the most commonly used (74.5%), 
followed by ibuprofen (52.4%) and aspirin (33.3%). Headache (81.2%) was 
the primary reason. Self-medication without prescription accounted for 
64.8% of use. Only 40.5% demonstrated good knowledge of potential 
adverse effects. Gastrointestinal symptoms (41.2%) were the most 
frequently reported adverse effect, followed by drowsiness (22.6%) and 
gastric irritation (18.3%). 
 
Conclusion: Analgesic use, particularly self-medication, is highly prevalent 
among adults in Tripoli. Knowledge regarding safe use and adverse effects 
remains insufficient. Community-based educational interventions are 
urgently needed to promote rational analgesic use.