Purpose: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are widely available over-the counter medications with significant gastric and renal complications with chronic use. Because of sports related pains, student athletes may be frequent NSAID users. This study describes associations between NSAID use and behaviors among male high school football players (HSFP). Methods: 1231 self-administered questionnaires (SAQs) were mailed to 35 coaches, fall 1999. Of 681 SAQ returned, 63 non-football players, 1 female and 13 with missing data were excluded. Binary independent variables were: race (white), insurance status (private), and attitudes (improved performance); behaviors consisted of self-administration decisions: when, type, and dose and use to block pain. Age is continuous (13-19 years). Among users, independent variables were entered into logistic regression to determine their independent effects on probability of daily use. Results: Of 604 HSFP 90% were white, mean 15.8 years, with 88% private insurance. 452 (75%) used NSAIDs in the past 3 months; 90 (15%) were daily users. Users did not significantly differ from non-users in age, race, or insurance. Those who perceived better performance (AOR=2.4), decided when to self-administer (AOR=2.2), and used to block pain before it occurred (AOR=2.5), were significantly more likely to use daily Conclusions: NSAID use in HSFP is highly prevalent. Although package inserts caution against chronic use, nearly one in 7 players use daily. Daily users are more likely to decide independently when to use NSAID and to use prophylactically raising issues about the need for supervision and education of athletes regarding risks and appropriate use.
Learning Objectives: Participants will gain information concerning over-use of commonly available drugs in adolescents. They may learn of a need for supervision and education in the adolescent sports community. Participants should analyze their communities for alternative measures to replace the actions of adolescent athletes
Keywords: Adolescent Health, Adolescents
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.