Psychopathological Concomitants and Motivations Related to Misuse of Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs and Paracetamol

Introduction: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and paracetamol are among the most commonly used medications worldwide. It has been suggested that the misuse of such medications is not uncommon. The objective of the present research was to explore prevalence, reported reasons and psychopathological concomitants related to NSAIDs/paracetamol misuse in a sample of users. Methods: The sample was made of 346 NSAIDs or paracetamol users (age range: 18-64 years); assessments included the 4-item Perceived Stress Scale (PSS-4), the 10-item version of the Adverse Childhood Experiences International Questionnaire (ACE-IQ-10), the Body Image Concern Inventory (BICI), the Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test-C (AUDIT-C), and questions related to NSAIDs/paracetamol misuse. Results: Forty-eight individuals (13.9%) were categorized as NSAIDs/paracetamol misusers. A logistic regression model showed that higher scores in AUDIT-C, BICI and ACE-IQ-10, and the use of psychiatric medications, were significantly associated with the likelihood of NSAIDs/paracetamol misuse. Specific reasons related to the misuse are also reported. Discussion: Our findings provide novel insights into the relationship between NSAIDs/paracetamol misuse and psychopathology, with potential clinical implications for prevention and treatment.