Topic: Pain Management, August 2000

Dr. Lee:
Any special precautions while using non-aspirin OTC NSAIDs?

Dr. Shiel:
Patients taking blood thinners, such as Coumadin, should not take OTC NSAIDs without doctor supervision. NSAIDs can increase the risk of bleeding.

Patients with active ulcers should not take OTC NSAIDs because NSAIDs can impair ulcer healing, aggravate ulcers, and also increase the risk of ulcer bleeding.

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Last Editorial Review: 8/29/2000