Use of Pain Medicines in the Republic of North Macedonia (Knowledge, Attitudes and Practices)

Pain is a universal human experience and remains one of the most significant public health challenges worldwide because of its wide-ranging physical, emotional, and social effects. It is one of the most common reasons people seek medical care and continues to be a leading cause of reduced daily functioning, lower productivity, and a diminished quality of life. Despite its impact, most patients do not seek medical attention when experiencing pain but instead rely on self-medication with over the counter (OTC) analgesics. These medicines can be effective when used responsibly; however, inappropriate use, excessive dosing, or combining multiple products without professional guidance can lead to serious health risks, including adverse reactions, masking of underlying diseases, medication interactions, or even long-term complications. The growing availability of OTC pain medicines, together with limited public knowledge about their risks, has contributed to rising rates of self-treatment both globally and in the Republic of North Macedonia. Modern lifestyle demands, the high prevalence of chronic pain, and increased trust in non-prescription products further support this trend. Although OTC analgesics are widely perceived as safe, scientific evidence consistently shows that misuse may lead to gastrointestinal, cardiovascular, renal, hepatic, psychological, and dependency-related complications. This underscores the need for better public education and reliable counseling from pharmacists and other healthcare professionals.
This paper examines the use of pain medicines in North Macedonia by exploring knowledge, attitudes, and practices related to self-medication with OTC analgesics. It analyzes global and national trends in consumption, identifies key factors influencing increased use, and discusses potential risks associated with inadequate pain management. In addition, the study highlights the importance of proper patient education, regulatory control, and the role of healthcare providers in promoting rational and responsible use of analgesics. By presenting these insights, the paper aims to improve understanding among individuals who rely on OTC analgesics for self-treatment and to encourage safer strategies for addressing pain at the population level.
Keywords: analgesics, concerns, OTC, over-the-counter medications