Nonsteroidal Antiinflammatory Drugs (NSAIDS) and Ulcers

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Pharmacy Author: Omudhome Ogbru, PharmD
Medical and Pharmacy Editor: Jay W. Marks, MD

• What are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)?
• What are the side effects of NSAIDs?
• How do NSAIDs work and how do they cause stomach problems?
• If a stomach ulcer is detected, how is it treated?
• Can NSAID-related ulcers and complications be prevented?

What are nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs)?

Nonsteroidal antiinflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are commonly prescribed medications for the inflammation of arthritis and other body tissues, such as in tendinitis and bursitis. Examples of NSAIDs include aspirin, indomethacin (Indocin), ibuprofen (Motrin), naproxen (Naprosyn), piroxicam (Feldene), and nabumetone (Relafen).

NSAIDs are taken regularly by approximately 33 million Americans!

What are side effects of NSAIDs?

The major side effects of NSAIDs are related to their effects on the stomach and bowels (gastrointestinal system). Some 10%-50% of patients are unable to tolerate NSAID treatment because of side effects, including abdominal pain, diarrhea, and upset stomach. Approximately 15% of patients on long-term NSAID treatment develop a peptic ulcer (ulceration of the stomach and duodenum). Even though many of these patients with ulcers do not have symptoms and are unaware of their ulcers, they are at risk of developing serious ulcer complications such as bleeding or perforation of the stomach.

The annual risk of serious complications is 1%-4% with chronic NSAID treatment. The risk of complications is higher in elderly patients, in those with rheumatoid arthritis, patients taking blood thinning medications [anticoagulants such as warfarin (Coumadin) and heparin)] or cortisone-containing medications (for example, prednisone), and patients with heart disease or a prior history of bleeding ulcers.

Suggested Reading by Our Doctors

• ibuprofen, Advil, Children's Advil/Motrin, Medipren, Motrin, Nuprin, PediaCare Fever, etc. - Explains the medication ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, Nuprin, Medipren) a drug used for the management of mild to moderate pain, fever, and inflammation. Article includes descriptions, uses, drug interactions, and side effects.
• Endoscopy (Esophagogastroduodenoscopy, EGD) - Learn about the endoscopy procedure which examines the esophagus, stomach and duodenum to detect gastrointestinal and digestive disorders on MedicineNet.com
• Rectal Bleeding - Rectal bleeding can be a sign of several different conditions including hemorrhoids, anal fisure, colitis, and more.

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