A Cross-Sectional Survey on the Use, Efficacy, and Awareness of Paracetamol, Diclofenac Sodium and Ibuprofen in Fever and Pain Management in Multan

Abstract

Background: Over-the-counter use of paracetamol and NSAIDs is common among young adults, yet real-world patterns of use, perceived efficacy, and safety awareness in Pakistani university settings remain poorly characterized. Objective: To evaluate use patterns, awareness of dosing and adverse effects, and perceived analgesic and antipyretic efficacy for paracetamol, ibuprofen, diclofenac, and their combinations among a Multan university population. Methods: A cross-sectional survey was conducted at Nishtar Medical University (July–September 2025). A convenience sample completed a validated, anonymous online questionnaire capturing demographics, indication patterns, regimen choices, awareness domains, and 5-point Likert ratings of perceived efficacy. Descriptive statistics summarized prevalence; chi-square tested associations by gender, occupation, and education with Cramér’s V as effect size. Results: Of 326 respondents (59.8% male; mean age 21.5±4.69 years), self-medication was driven by easy availability (31.5%) and quick relief (29.4%). Paracetamol was most used (81.5%). Awareness differed by occupation for dosing (χ²=10.47, p=0.01, V=0.18) and side effects (χ²=16.92, p<0.01, V=0.23). Perceived efficacy favored ibuprofen for pain (mean 4.09±0.68) and paracetamol or paracetamol-ibuprofen for fever (means 3.96–4.03); a triple combination was rated highly for both. Conclusion: Self-medication is prevalent with uneven safety literacy; education and stewardship should align regimen choice to symptom targets while discouraging unnecessary poly-NSAID use.