Potential Risks and Complications of NSAIDs

By: Peter F. Ullrich, Jr., MD

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As with any medication, there are a number of potential risks, side effects and complications that it patients need to be aware of prior to starting to take the any form of the medication.

Two of the more common potential risks and complications of NSAIDs include:

Kidney damage. NSAIDs are cleared from the blood stream by the kidney, so it is very important that patients over 65 years of age or patients with kidney disease consult a physician prior to taking the medication. If patients take an NSAID for an extended period of time (e.g. six months or more), a blood test needs to be performed to check for early signs of kidney damage.

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Stomach problems. NSAIDs may also cause stomach upset or possibly ulcers. Patients with stomach ulcers or a history of stomach ulcers should first consult with their physician. Signs of stomach ulceration and intestinal bleeding typically include one or a combination of the following symptoms: abdominal pain, black tarry stools, weakness, or dizziness upon standing.

Most types of NSAIDs have a variety of other potential risks and complications associated with them. While most side effects are rare, some can be serious and even potentially fatal, so it is important for patients to remain aware of them and under supervision by a health professional.

As a general rule, patients with any of the following factors should be sure to meet with their doctor before taking any type of NSAID:

Thyroid problems
Diabetes
Heart disease
High blood pressure
Allergy or reaction to aspirin, other NSAIDs or pain relievers
Pregnant, about to become pregnant, or breast feeding
Consume three or more alcoholic beverages a day
About to have surgery or other invasive procedures (including dental surgery)

In order to ensure that NSAIDs are used safely, patients should meet with a physician to evaluate their individual risk factors (e.g. the patient’s likelihood for developing certain health problems, including heart attack, stroke and gastrointestinal problems) and to determine the most appropriate dosages, type of NSAID, and treatment options.

In general, it is recommended that patients avoid taking over-the-counter NSAIDs for more than 10 days in a row without consulting their physician.

As with all medications, patients should discuss with their doctor medications taken (including herbal remedies, supplements, etc), all other medical conditions and allergies. Patients should strictly follow label directions for all pain medications, including non-prescription medications.

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