Abstract
1. NSAID use and GI complications Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are among the most commonly used medications worldwide; their use tends to increase in relation to the progressively ageing population and the widespread prescription for prophylaxis of cardiac and cerebrovascular diseases in Western countries. While NSAIDS are well tolerated by most users, they are also associated with a significant risk of upper gastrointestinal (GI) complications, such as dyspepsia, ulcer formation, bleeding and perforation. Approximately 1–2% of NSAID users will develop these disorders per year, a rate 3–5 times higher than in non-NSAID users [1]. Much research has been performed in the past in the attempt to identify the role of risk factors favouring the occurrence of the above complications. They are represented by advanced age, history of previous ulcer and its complications, high-dose NSAID therapy, concomitant use of corticosteroids and anticoagulants, and chronic debilitating disorders, especially cardiovascular diseases [2]. Although NSAIDs and H. pylori infection can be considered independent factors in the development of the ulcer crater, there is strong evidence that the presence of the bacterium in the stomach increases the risk of NSAID-related GI complications [3].
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
