Abstract
Introduction: The rational use of medicines is essential for health promotion and disease prevention and is one of the pillars of primary care in Brazil. However, inappropriate medication use remains an important challenge, especially in the case of analgesics and antimicrobials, which are widely used by the population. According to the World Health Organization, more than 50% of medicines are prescribed, dispensed, or used incorrectly, contributing to increased morbidity and mortality and antimicrobial resistance. Excessive use of analgesics can mask relevant symptoms and cause toxicity, while inappropriate use of antimicrobials promotes bacterial resistance and reduces the therapeutic effectiveness of future infections. Assessing consumption patterns of these therapeutic classes in local contexts is essential to support surveillance actions, health education, and public policy planning. Objective: To analyze the medication consumption profile of analgesics and antimicrobials dispensed by the Basic Health Unit (BHU) in the municipality of Frederico Westphalen, Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, during 2023. Methods: This was a descriptive crosssectional study with data collected through the computerized pharmacy system of the BHU in the municipality (estimated population of 32,627 people, according to data from the Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics IBGE). All dispensations of analgesics and antimicrobials included in the Municipal List of Essential Medicines (REMUME) were included. Results: A total of 137,909 units of analgesics were dispensed in 2023, with the following medications predominating: paracetamol 500 mg + codeine 30 mg (33.43%), ibuprofen 600 mg (29.28%), and acetylsalicylic acid 100 mg (29.14%). These three accounted for more than 90% of dispensations, all being classified as nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Other formulations, such as dipyrone and diclofenac, accounted for less than 6%. A total of 75,533 units of antimicrobials were also dispensed, particularly amoxicillin 500 mg + potassium clavulanate 125 mg (29.45%), cephalexin 500 mg (14.55%), and amoxicillin 500 mg (10.83%). The most representative classes were penicillins (44.67%), cephalosporins (19.63%), and quinolones (13.10%). The main pharmaceutical form was tablets, indicating a predominantly adult patient profile. Conclusion: The significant volume of dispensations reflects a considerable demand for frequently used and lowcost medicines, concentrated in a few active ingredients. This pattern may indicate standardized care and adherence to protocols, but it also suggests possible automatic repetition of prescriptions without individualized assessment. Factors such as the local epidemiological profile, service organization, and prescribing culture may influence this scenario. Similarities with data from other regions reinforce the need for coordinated actions to improve medication use. The predominance of NSAIDs and antibiotics requires increased attention due to the risks of adverse effects, toxicity, and bacterial resistance. Beyond specific adjustments, it is essential to invest in training, review protocols, and expand educational strategies aimed at the population. Monitoring medication consumption profiles in healthcare units should be part of routine pharmaceutical care, promoting more accurate assessments and effective interventions. This study reinforces pharmaceutical care as a strategic component for the rational use of medicines, patient safety, and the sustainability of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS).
