Over-the-Counter Analgesics Among Patients With Inflammatory Bowel Disease: A Cross-Sectional Study Based on a New Questionnaire.

Abstract

Abdominal pain is common in inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) and patients may self-medicate with over-the-counter (OTC) analgesics. We examined OTC analgesic use among adults with IBD in a Danish Gastroenterology outpatient clinic. A questionnaire including demographics, disease characteristics, analgesic types and frequencies, and reasons for use was developed and tested. Overall, 216 patients completed the questionnaire (November 2025-February 2026). Analyses were stratified by IBD type and disease activity; associations were assessed using logistic regression. Over 90% used OTC analgesics, predominantly paracetamol, regardless of IBD type and disease activity. Frequent use (≥ 4 days/week) was more common among patients with disease activity than without within 6 months (16% vs. 6%). Adjusted OR for frequent use within 4 weeks and 6 months were 1.69 (95% CI 0.57-4.99) and 2.37 (95% CI 0.79-7.11), respectively. Among patients with disease activity, 54%, 31% and 12% reported 'another reasons than IBD', 'IBD and another reason' and 'IBD', respectively, as reasons for use. Corresponding proportions without disease activity were 81%, 11% and < 6%, respectively. OTC analgesics use was common regardless of disease activity, but frequent use and IBD-related reasons were more prevalent with disease activity; highlighting the need for clinical awareness and appropriate pain management.