GI effects of OTC analgesics: implications for product selection.
Adverse GI effects of NSAIDs include dyspepsia, occult bleeding, overt bleeding and ulcer disease. Consequences of NSAID-induced GI toxicity include anemia, hospitalization, and death. External factors, such as drugs and alcohol, can disrupt the gastric barrier that protects the GI tract from erosive substances. Pharmacists should counsel patients who frequently use non-prescription analgesics and determine whether further medical evaluation is needed. In contrast to NSAIDs, acetaminophen has not been associated with GI toxicity of increased risk of GI tract bleeding.
Garnett
W R
WR
School of Pharmacy, Virginia Commonwealth University, Medical College of Virginia at Richmond, USA.
D000082:Acetaminophen / Q000494:pharmacology; D000367:Age Factors; D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / Q000009:adverse effects*; D004415:Dyspepsia / Q000139:chemically induced*; D006471:Gastrointestinal Hemorrhage / Q000139:chemically induced*; D006801:Humans; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs; D010353:Patient Education as Topic; D010437:Peptic Ulcer / Q000139:chemically induced* / Q000209:etiology; D012307:Risk Factors
D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal; D004366:Nonprescription Drugs; D000082:Acetaminophen