Analgesic use patterns among medical students in Shendi city, January -March 2026
Analgesic use patterns among medical students in Shendi city, January -March 2026
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Date
2026
Authors
Musab Elsari Elsundi Hassanin
Marwa Adam Ahmad Alduwd
Mehad Mohammed Ahmad Zidan
Mustafa Rhama Ali Rhama
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Publisher
Napata College
Abstract
Background: Analgesics are widely used medications for pain relief and are commonly
available over the counter. Their easy accessibility has increased the practice of self
medication, especially among medical students. Although responsible use may be beneficial,
inappropriate use can lead to serious health risks such as gastrointestinal, renal, and hepatic
complications. In Sudan, there is limited data on analgesic use patterns among medical
students, particularly in Shendi City.
Objective: To assess the patterns of analgesic use among medical students in Shendi City
during the period January–March 2026.
Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 323 medical students from
multiple universities in Shendi City. Data were collected using a structured self-administered
questionnaire distributed online. The questionnaire covered demographic data, types of
analgesics used, frequency of use, indications and reasons for self-medication. Data were
analyzed using SPSS version 26, and results were presented as frequencies, percentages, and
statistical associations.
Results: Paracetamol was the most commonly used analgesic (78.9%), followed by ibuprofen
(39%) and diclofenac (26.6%), while opioid use was low. Most students reported using
analgesics rarely (44.9%) or monthly (37.8%), with very few using them daily (2.8%).
Headache was the most common indication (78.9%), followed by fever, menstrual pain, and
musculoskeletal pain. The main reasons for self-medication were saving time (42.1%) and the
belief that the illness was minor (39.9%). Significant associations were found between
analgesic use patterns and certain demographic factors such as age, gender, and academic year.
Conclusion: Self-medication with analgesics is highly prevalent among medical students in
Shendi City, mainly driven by convenience and perceived mild illness. These findings highlight
the need for targeted educational interventions to promote safe and rational use of analgesics.
Keywords:Analgesics, Self-medication, Medical students, Paracetamol, Sudan
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Napata College