title: Review article: non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs and Helicobacter pylori.
abstract: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and Helicobacter pylori are well-recognized causes of gastroduodenal mucosal damage. This damage is mediated through the effects of both agents on acid secretion, neutrophil activity and function, and prosta- glandin metabolism. Clinical trials on the interrelation- ship between H. pylori, NSAIDs and gastroduodenal mucosal injury have yielded conflicting results. No consensus has been reached on what recommenda- tions should be implemented with regard to H. pylori eradication in patients on long-term NSAID therapy. At present, the presence of H. pylori is identified at endoscopy and eradication is carried out in symptomatic patients. Asymptomatic patients remain a dilemma that requires further investigation. Clinical practice will continue to be tailored to a patient's individual requirements. Therefore, in patients at risk of gastrointestinal haemorrhage, and on NSAID therapy, acid suppression therapy should be prescribed.
authors.affiliation: Department of Gastroenterology, Adelaide and Meath Hospitals, Dublin, Ireland.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Barr
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: Buckley
authors.forename: C
authors.initials: C
authors.lastname: O'Morain
mesh_terms: D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal / Q000009:adverse effects*; D016481:Helicobacter Infections / Q000150:complications*; D016480:Helicobacter pylori; D006801:Humans; D010437:Peptic Ulcer / Q000139:chemically induced / Q000209:etiology* / Q000382:microbiology
chemical_list: D000894:Anti-Inflammatory Agents, Non-Steroidal