Pattern of Analgesic Use Among Adults in Mysuru, Karnataka: A Community-Based Cross-Sectional Survey
Abstract
Abstract Background Pain is among the most prevalent health complaints globally, and analgesics rank among the most frequently consumed medications in community settings. Self-medication with analgesics is a recognised public health concern in India, yet community-level data from Mysuru, Karnataka are entirely absent from the published literature. This study aimed to describe the pattern of analgesic use among adults in Mysuru and to identify associated sociodemographic and behavioural factors. Methods A community-based cross-sectional survey was conducted among 200 adults (≥ 18 years) in Mysuru, Karnataka, from September 2025 to April 2026, using convenience sampling. Data were collected via a structured Google Forms questionnaire covering sociodemographic characteristics, lifestyle habits, comorbidities, analgesic agents used, indications, frequency of use, procurement methods, and awareness of adverse drug reactions (ADRs). Descriptive statistics were computed in Microsoft Excel. Results A total of 200 participants were enrolled (mean age 29.94 ± 11.57 years; female 50.5%). The population was predominantly urban (89%) and highly educated (66% graduates or above). Paracetamol was the most commonly used analgesic (n = 133; 66.5%), followed by diclofenac (n = 60; 30.0%), aspirin (n = 58; 29.0%), and ibuprofen (n = 56; 28.0%). Headache (n = 119; 59.5%) and fever (n = 95; 47.5%) were the leading indications. Self-medication was the predominant procurement route (n = 91;…
How strong is the evidence?
Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause. Reported size: 200 participants or records.
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