The risks associated with the use of anti-inflammatories and self-medication by the elderly

Abstract

Inappropriate use and self-medication by the elderly is a common practice, and the likelihood of future consequences is enormous, leading to an increase in diseases and drug interactions among the elderly who use prescription drugs. In view of this, the general objective of this study was to understand the risks associated with self-medication among the elderly population, in the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and adverse reactions. To this end, the methodology used was a literature review, collecting data from databases such as Scielo, Lilacs and Google Scholar.  The main results obtained from the research showed that the elderly are the population that consumes the most anti-inflammatory drugs, and that they should be administered with caution; the indiscriminate use of NSAIDs can cause undesirable effects when used without pharmacotherapeutic monitoring. In view of this, the pharmacist is the person responsible for ensuring safety and preventing the rational use of medicines. The pharmacist goes beyond supplying medicines; the professional clarifies inappropriate use to the patient, and the risks that can occur, guaranteeing quality of life for the population.