Endocr Metab Immune Disord Drug Targets. 2026 Jan 26. doi: 10.2174/0118715303412026251125095355. Online ahead of print.
ABSTRACT
INTRODUCTION: Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a chronic autoimmune disease of the central nervous system, influenced by both genetic and environmental factors. Among the environmental factors, early childhood self-medication may be relevant in MS development. This study aimed to evaluate the association between MS risk and self-medication practices before the age of 15.
METHODS: Under a case-control approach, 260 demographically matched healthy controls from the Azeri community and 469 MS patients completed a comprehensive questionnaire on childhood self-medication history. Regarding the kind and frequency of drug usage, statistical comparisons were made among the groups using the chi-square test.
RESULTS: Self-medication was common in both cohorts; however, individuals with multiple sclerosis exhibited a markedly greater use of corticosteroids, analgesics, and hypnotics (p < 0.05). Conversely, healthy controls reported more frequent use of iron and calcium supplements, antihistamines, acetaminophen, antibiotics, and adult cold medications (p < 0.05). No significant differences were observed for multivitamins, vitamin D, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (p > 0.05).
DISCUSSION: This study suggests that unsupervised use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids and hypnotics, before age 15 may increase the risk of developing multiple sclerosis, while common supplements and over-the-counter drugs may have a protective effect. Responsible drug use in childhood should be emphasized through education and regulation.
CONCLUSION: Early-life use of certain medications, especially corticosteroids and hypnotics, may be linked to increased MS risk, while the use of supplements and common over-the-counter drugs might have protective associations. Educational and regulatory efforts are needed to prevent unsupervised medication use in children.
PMID:41603186 | DOI:10.2174/0118715303412026251125095355
