It is known that gastrointestinal complications from the use of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) are significantly reduced when also taking gastroprotective drugs such as a proton pump inhibitor or misoprostal. Using COX-2 selective NSAIDs rather than traditional NSAIDs also reduces gastrointestinal complications. There has been a significant decline in the use of COX-2 selective inhibitors since Vioxx and Bextra were removed from the market though. Researchers recently observed that the rate of gastrointestinal complications was increasing, related to decreasing prescriptions written for gastroprotective drugs and COX-2 selective inhibitors.

According to the report which was presented at the 2007 American College of Rheumatology Annual Scientific Meeting, a group of arthritis-diagnosed patients, over 65 years old, who were treated with NSAIDs for at least 30 days between 1997 to 2005 were included as study participants. There were 4,474,074 prescriptions tracked in the study -- as well as the rate of serious ulcer complications per 100,000 prescriptions. From the study results, researchers concluded that if the trend continues, the rate of incidence (morbidity) and death rate (mortality) from NSAID-related ulcer complications would reach unacceptable levels. Talk to your doctor about safe use of NSAIDs and other treatment options for osteoarthritis.

Related Resources:

• NSAIDs: 10 Things You Need to Know
• Treatment for NSAID-Induced Ulcers
• Cyclooxygenase: COX-1 and COX-2 Explained
• Osteoarthritis Medications: What Are My Options?
• Proton Pump Inhibitors Cut Ulcer Risk in NSAID Users

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