What do pregnant women know about non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs?

Abstract

Objective: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) use on late pregnancy can be associated with severe adverse neonatal outcomes. Some NSAIDs, available over the counter, can be purchased easily by pregnant women. The present study evaluates pregnant womens' knowledge about NSAID use in pregnancy.

Study design: The survey includes 250 pregnant women in South-west France. Women have been interviewed about their knowledge on analgesic and NSAID use in pregnancy.

Results: A total of 2% pregnant women use aspirin or ibuprofen as self-medication. More than 10% of the women think that it is safe to take NSAIDs on late pregnancy. A majority of them thought that aspirin and ibuprofen are not NSAIDs.

Conclusion: NSAID risks in pregnancy are insufficiently known. Adequate information must be provided not only to medical practitioners and pharmacists but also to pregnant women especially for drugs which are available over the counter.