Use and Costs of Nonprescription Medications Among People With Spinal Cord Injury

Objectives: The study objectives were to assess the prevalence of, and factors associated with the use and costs of nonprescription medications among people with spinal cord injury.

Design: Observational design; a cross-sectional online survey.

Setting: Community in Canada.

Participants: Individuals with spinal cord injury (N=160).

Interventions: Not applicable.

Main outcome measures: Not applicable.

Results: A total of 160 individuals participated in this study. Of all study participants, 83% reported that they used at least 1 nonprescription medication over the last 12 months. On average, participants spent $52 per month on nonprescription medications. The average use and monthly expenditure did not differ significantly by age, sex, or injury parameters. Vitamins and minerals were most commonly used and constituted 62% of all nonprescription medications listed by the participants. Musculoskeletal issues were the most common health problems for which nonprescription medications were used.

Conclusion: Nonprescription medications are a common part of therapeutic drug regimens for people with spinal cord injuries and are purchased as an out-of-pocket expense. These products may or may not have established benefits. Knowledge about the use of nonprescription medications may help prescribers to improve drug safety, medication affordability, and quality of pharmacotherapy for patients with spinal cord injury.