A new study from Swedish pharmacy chain Apotek Hjärtat has found significant gender differences in over-the-counter painkiller usage, with women consuming these medications at roughly twice the rate of men. The research surveyed approximately 4,000 people and revealed that 15 percent of Swedes take painkillers every week.
According to the study, one in five women (20 percent) report taking painkillers on a weekly basis, compared to just one in ten men (10 percent). Experts suggest several factors may contribute to this disparity, including that migraines are more common among women and that menstrual pain represents a significant source of discomfort requiring medication.
just because it's over-the-counter doesn't mean it's risk-free
Maria Edman of Sweden's Medical Products Agency (Läkemedelsverket) cautioned that "just because it's over-the-counter doesn't mean it's risk-free." Both Edman and Annika Svedberg, chief pharmacist at Apotek Hjärtat, emphasized that while people shouldn't hesitate to take painkillers when in pain, they warned against overconsumption. Edman specifically noted that taking painkillers too frequently can paradoxically cause headaches.
The study highlights ongoing public health considerations around self-medication practices in Sweden, particularly regarding gender differences in pain management approaches.
taking painkillers too frequently can paradoxically cause headaches